Fin's Fish Guide
The Multiband butterflyfish (Chaetodon multicinctus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The multiband butterflyfish is a small butterflyfish endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll in the Pacific. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a white, disc-shaped body with thin grey-brown cross-bars and rows of orange dots. It lives on clear coral reefs and feeds mainly on coral polyps. Like many butterflyfishes it lives in fixed pairs that jointly defend a feeding territory. The fish is harmless to humans and is assessed as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Multiband butterflyfish?
The Multiband butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Eats coral polyps; lives in fixed pairs with a feeding territory
Where does the Multiband butterflyfish live?
The Multiband butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Hawaiian Islands
How big does the Multiband butterflyfish get?
The Multiband butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Multiband butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Multiband butterflyfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Multiband butterflyfish edible?
The Multiband butterflyfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chaetodon
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Multiband butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Multiband butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.