Fin's Fish Guide
The St. Helena butterflyfish (Chaetodon sanctaehelenae) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Description
The St. Helena butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from reef water of the islands of St. Helena and Ascension in the Atlantic. The species grows to about 15 cm and has a deep, strongly laterally compressed, silver-white with a yellow back body with a small, pointed snout. As a day-active fish it swims along coral and rocky reefs and picks polyps, small invertebrates and algae with its snout-like mouth. It often lives in pairs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the St. Helena butterflyfish?
The St. Helena butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly yellow-gold.
Where does the St. Helena butterflyfish live?
The St. Helena butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Africa: St Helena, Ascension I.
How big does the St. Helena butterflyfish get?
The St. Helena butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the St. Helena butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the St. Helena 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 St. Helena butterflyfish edible?
Yes, the St. Helena butterflyfish is commonly 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 St. Helena butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the St. Helena butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.