Fin's Fish Guide
The Tahiti butterflyfish (Chaetodon trichrous) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The Tahiti butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the southeast Pacific, around French Polynesia. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, disc-shaped body with a small, pointed mouth. The body is drab-brown with a yellow tinge and a dark eye band. 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 Tahiti butterflyfish?
The Tahiti butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly brown.
Where does the Tahiti butterflyfish live?
The Tahiti butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Cook Is., Tahiti, Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia
How big does the Tahiti butterflyfish get?
The Tahiti butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm.
Is the Tahiti butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Tahiti 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 Tahiti butterflyfish edible?
Yes, the Tahiti 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 Tahiti butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Tahiti butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.