Threadfin Butterflyfish

Threadfin Butterflyfish

Chaetodon auriga

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Threadfin Butterflyfish (Chaetodon auriga) is a vibrant tropical marine fish found throughout the Indo-Pacific, easily recognized by its white body with chevron patterns, a black bar across the eye, and a distinctive black spot on its dorsal fin, often with a trailing filament in adults. This omnivorous species inhabits coral reefs, coastal zones, and rubble areas, where it feeds on a varied diet including coral polyps, algae, and small invertebrates. It exhibits flexible social behavior, being observed solitary, in monogamous pairs, or in small groups, and is active during the day.

Max Length 25 cm
Max Weight 30 g
Lifespan 5 - 8 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, open water, and coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 60 m
Diet Omnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour

Destinations to spot Threadfin Butterflyfish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Threadfin Butterflyfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Threadfin Butterflyfish

Where can you see the Threadfin Butterflyfish?

The Threadfin Butterflyfish can be seen at 35 dive destinations in 8 countries. The best spots include Abu Dabbab (Egypt), Addu Atoll (Maldives), Aliwal Shoal (South Africa), Anilao (Philippines), and Apo Reef (Philippines).

What is the best time to see the Threadfin Butterflyfish?

The Threadfin Butterflyfish is most often seen at Tubbataha Reefs from March to June.

Can you see the Threadfin Butterflyfish all year round?

Yes. At Abu Dabbab, Addu Atoll, Aliwal Shoal, Anilao, and Apo Reef, the Threadfin Butterflyfish is seen all year round.

Where can you see the Threadfin Butterflyfish in Maldives?

In Maldives, you can see the Threadfin Butterflyfish at Addu Atoll, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Fuvahmulah, North Male Atoll, and South Ari Atoll.

Where can you see the Threadfin Butterflyfish in Egypt?

In Egypt, you can see the Threadfin Butterflyfish at Abu Dabbab, Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, Elphinstone Reef, Hurghada, and Sharm el-Sheikh.

Where can you see the Threadfin Butterflyfish in Indonesia?

In Indonesia, you can see the Threadfin Butterflyfish at Gili Islands, Komodo, Lembeh Strait, Nusa Penida, and Raja Ampat.

How big does the Threadfin Butterflyfish get?

The Threadfin Butterflyfish can reach up to 25 cm in length and 30 g in weight.

What habitat does the Threadfin Butterflyfish live in?

The Threadfin Butterflyfish is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, open water, and coral reef.

How deep does the Threadfin Butterflyfish live?

The Threadfin Butterflyfish lives between 1 and 60 m deep.

What does the Threadfin Butterflyfish eat?

Eats both plant and animal matter, which lets it adapt its diet to whatever the habitat offers.

When is the Threadfin Butterflyfish most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Threadfin Butterflyfish live?

The Threadfin Butterflyfish lives 5 to 8 years.

What is the conservation status of the Threadfin Butterflyfish?

The Threadfin Butterflyfish is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Threadfin Butterflyfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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