Fin's Fish Guide
The Thompson's butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys thompsoni) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Oceania: Cook Is., Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati, Guam, Japan and others
Description
Thompson's butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the central Pacific, mainly around oceanic islands. The species grows to about 18 cm and has a plain grey-brown to nearly black body, unusually sober for a butterflyfish. Unlike many relatives it swarms in large schools in open water along steep reef slopes and picks zooplankton from the current. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Thompson's butterflyfish?
The Thompson's butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern.
Where does the Thompson's butterflyfish live?
The Thompson's butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Cook Is., Tuamotu Is., French Polynesia, Kiribati, Guam, Japan and others
How big does the Thompson's butterflyfish get?
The Thompson's butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Thompson's butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Thompson's 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 Thompson's butterflyfish edible?
Yes, the Thompson's butterflyfish is commonly eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Hemitaurichthys
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Thompson's butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Thompson's butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.