Bluecheek Butterflyfish

Bluecheek Butterflyfish

Chaetodon semilarvatus

Least Concern
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DESCRIPTION

The Bluecheek Butterflyfish (Chaetodon semilarvatus) is a striking golden-yellow fish with delicate red vertical lines and a distinctive blue patch around its eyes. Endemic to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, it typically inhabits coral reefs where it feeds on coral polyps, algae, and small invertebrates. This species is known for forming monogamous, long-term pairs that often patrol and defend their feeding territories.

Max Length 23 cm
Max Weight 200 g
Lifespan 5 - 10 years
Habitat Coral reef
Depth Range 1 - 20 m
Diet Omnivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior In pairs
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Bluecheek Butterflyfish

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot Bluecheek Butterflyfish

Range

Where Bluecheek Butterflyfish has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Bluecheek Butterflyfish

Where can you see the Bluecheek Butterflyfish?

The Bluecheek Butterflyfish can be seen at 11 dive destinations in Egypt, Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. The best spots include Hurghada (Egypt), Abu Dabbab (Egypt), Brothers Islands (Egypt), Daedalus Reef (Egypt), and Elphinstone Reef (Egypt).

What is the best time to see the Bluecheek Butterflyfish?

The Bluecheek Butterflyfish can be seen all year round at Hurghada, Abu Dabbab, Brothers Islands, Daedalus Reef, and Elphinstone Reef.

Where can you see the Bluecheek Butterflyfish in Egypt?

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

Where can you see the Bluecheek Butterflyfish in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, you can see the Bluecheek Butterflyfish at Kapalai and Mabul.

Where can you see the Bluecheek Butterflyfish in Thailand?

In Thailand, you can see the Bluecheek Butterflyfish at Koh Tao and Similan Islands.

How big does the Bluecheek Butterflyfish get?

The Bluecheek Butterflyfish can reach up to 23 cm in length and 200 g in weight.

What habitat does the Bluecheek Butterflyfish live in?

The Bluecheek Butterflyfish is found in these habitats: coral reef.

How deep does the Bluecheek Butterflyfish live?

The Bluecheek Butterflyfish lives between 1 and 20 m deep.

What does the Bluecheek Butterflyfish eat?

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

When is the Bluecheek 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 Bluecheek Butterflyfish live?

The Bluecheek Butterflyfish lives 5 to 10 years.

What is the conservation status of the Bluecheek Butterflyfish?

The Bluecheek 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 Bluecheek Butterflyfish. Spotted something that looks off?

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