The Diagonal Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon fasciatus, is a captivating species of marine fish belonging to the butterflyfish family. Renowned for its striking coloration and elegant movements, the Diagonal Butterflyfish is a common sight in tropical reefs worldwide. This vibrant fish is a popular choice for aquariums, adding a splash of color to home aquariums.
Description & Characteristics
The Diagonal Butterflyfish is characterized by its distinctive, elongated body with an average size of 22.0 cm. Its body is adorned with a captivating pattern of bold black bands that run diagonally across a yellow background. This striking coloration serves as camouflage, allowing the fish to blend seamlessly into the coral reefs it inhabits. The Diagonal Butterflyfish has a small, pointed snout, a relatively large mouth, and a dorsal fin that extends the length of its back. The fish’s fins are transparent, adding to its delicate and ethereal appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Diagonal Butterflyfish, or Chaetodon fasciatus, is a tropical reef fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. This species prefers shallow, clear waters with abundant coral growth and a depth range of 2.0 to 25.0 meters. The fish is commonly encountered in the marine zones that constitute its habitat, including the tropical Indo-Pacific, the Red Sea, and the East African coast. It is often spotted within sheltered lagoons and rocky reefs, demonstrating its preference for areas with ample cover and food sources.
Taxonomy
The species Chaetodon fasciatus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Chaetodontidae. This classification places it within a diverse and fascinating group of fish known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns. As a member of the Chaetodontidae family, the Diagonal Butterflyfish shares common characteristics with other butterflyfish species, including their specialized feeding habits and their preference for coral reef environments.
Feeding
The Diagonal Butterflyfish, or Chaetodon fasciatus, is a specialized feeder, primarily consuming algae and coral polyps. Its diet consists of a variety of food items, including algae, brine shrimps, coral polyps, dandelion, frozen food (large sort), krill, mysis, and nori-algae. It has a special adaptation in its mouth that allows it to scrape algae and polyps from the coral, demonstrating its unique role in the coral reef ecosystem.
Image References