West Australian butterflyfish – Chaetodon assarius

The West Australian Butterflyfish, Assarius Butterflyfish, or Western Butterflyfish, scientifically known as Chaetodon assarius, is a captivating and colorful species of marine fish found in the Indo-Pacific region. With its striking patterns and unique characteristics, this butterflyfish has become a popular subject among marine enthusiasts and aquarists.

Description & Characteristics

The Chaetodon assarius, reaching a maximum size of 13.0 cm, is characterized by its bright yellow body adorned with distinctive black stripes and spots. Its dorsal fin, which runs along its back, features a striking black margin, further enhancing its visual appeal. The overall appearance of this species is one of vibrant color and intricate patterns, making it a visually captivating inhabitant of coral reefs.

Habitat and Occurrence

The Chaetodon assarius prefers inhabiting shallow reef environments, typically found at depths ranging from 1.0 to 40.0 meters. This species thrives in areas with abundant coral cover, where they can utilize the intricate structures for shelter and feeding. They are most commonly encountered in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the western Pacific Ocean. Their prevalence in these specific marine zones highlights their adaptation to these particular environments.

Taxonomy

The species Chaetodon assarius belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Chaetodontidae. This family, known as butterflyfishes, is renowned for its diversity of colorful and intricate patterns. The Chaetodon assarius is classified within this family due to its shared morphological characteristics with other butterflyfish species, including its laterally compressed body, elongated dorsal fin, and brightly patterned scales. This classification reflects its evolutionary lineage and its place among other related fish species.

Feeding

The Chaetodon assarius is primarily an herbivore, primarily feeding on algae found on coral reefs. They are also known to consume zooplankton, which are small organisms that drift in the water column. This diverse diet allows them to thrive in the coral reef ecosystem, playing a role in maintaining the balance and health of these important habitats.