Fin's Fish Guide
The Marcella butterflyfish (Prognathodes marcellae) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms and deeper reef of the continental shelf.
Description
The Marcella butterflyfish is a small butterflyfish of the family Chaetodontidae reaching about 12 cm. The deep, strongly compressed, yellow-white body bears oblique dark bands, including one through the eye, and has a notably long, pointed snout with a small mouth. With it the fish picks small invertebrates and worms from crevices and holes. Unlike most butterflyfishes it lives in deeper water, near rocky bottoms and deeper reef of the continental shelf along the West African coast, often in pairs. Because of its small size and deep lifestyle it is only rarely seen and has no fishery value.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Marcella butterflyfish?
The Marcella butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Small, yellow-white butterflyfish with oblique dark bands and a long, pointed snout; lives deeper than most reef butterflyfishes.
Where does the Marcella butterflyfish live?
The Marcella butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Eastern Atlantic along the coast of West Africa, near rocky bottoms and deeper reef of the continental shelf.
How big does the Marcella butterflyfish get?
The Marcella butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Marcella butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Marcella butterflyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Marcella butterflyfish edible?
The Marcella butterflyfish is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Prognathodes
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Marcella butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Marcella butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.