The Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Tinker’s Butterfly, Tinker’s Butterflyfish – Chaetodon tinkeri is a captivating marine fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. Its distinctive coloration and intricate patterns have earned it a place among the most admired reef inhabitants.
Description & Characteristics
Chaetodon tinkeri showcases a vibrant yellow body adorned with intricate black markings. The black markings are arranged in a series of vertical stripes, with a prominent black stripe extending from the eye to the dorsal fin. This striking contrast creates an eye-catching pattern. The Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Tinker’s Butterfly, Tinker’s Butterflyfish can reach a maximum size of 15.0 cm. Its body is compressed laterally, giving it a distinct butterfly-like silhouette. This unique morphology allows for easy navigation through coral reefs. The fish possesses a dorsal fin with 13 spines and 21-24 soft rays. The anal fin has 3 spines and 18-21 soft rays. It also features a pointed snout, a small mouth, and a distinctive black eye.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Tinker’s Butterfly, Tinker’s Butterflyfish – Chaetodon tinkeri thrives in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It exhibits a preference for coral reefs, often inhabiting areas with abundant coral growth. The species displays a depth range of 27.0 – 180.0 meters, demonstrating its adaptability to various depths within its habitat. The Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Tinker’s Butterfly, Tinker’s Butterflyfish – Chaetodon tinkeri can be observed in various marine zones, including the reef flat, reef slope, and outer reef. Its presence is a testament to the richness and diversity of these ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Chaetodon tinkeri belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Chaetodontidae. This classification places it within a diverse group of fishes known for their striking colors and patterns. The family Chaetodontidae, commonly referred to as butterflyfishes, is renowned for its captivating members, which contribute significantly to the aesthetic beauty of coral reefs.
Feeding
The Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Hawaiian Butterflyfish, Tinker’s Butterfly, Tinker’s Butterflyfish – Chaetodon tinkeri is primarily a corallivorous species, relying on coral polyps for sustenance. Its diet includes a diverse range of invertebrates, such as brine shrimps, zooplankton, and other small organisms. It exhibits a preference for frozen food, especially larger pieces, suggesting a preference for larger prey items. Chaetodon tinkeri plays a crucial role in the coral reef ecosystem by controlling populations of specific invertebrates.
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