Fin's Fish Guide
The Pinstriped butterflyfish (Chaetodon lunulatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 27 cm.
Oceania: Australia, Fiji, Tahiti, Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati and others
Description
The Pinstriped butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 27 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, disc-shaped body with a small, pointed mouth. The body bears fine orange longitudinal lines and a dark rear margin; it feeds almost exclusively on coral polyps and often pairs. As a reef-dweller it searches coral and rocky reefs for coral polyps, small invertebrates and algae; many species live in pairs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Pinstriped butterflyfish?
The Pinstriped butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly red-orange and shows a horizontal stripes pattern.
Where does the Pinstriped butterflyfish live?
The Pinstriped butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Australia, Fiji, Tahiti, Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati and others
How big does the Pinstriped butterflyfish get?
The Pinstriped butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 27 cm.
Is the Pinstriped butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Pinstriped 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.
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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 Pinstriped butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Pinstriped butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.