Saddle butterflyfish
📖 Overview
Adults occur in lagoons and seaward reefs to a depth of 30 m, prefer coral-rich and clear water areas . Benthopelagic . Encountered singly, in pairs or small groups (adults often in pairs; juveniles solitary and inshore). They feed on filamentous algae, small invertebrates, coral polyps, and fish eggs. Oviparous . Form pairs during breeding .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 12 - 14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 21 - 25; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 20 - 23. : short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Saddle butterflyfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
🥚 Reproduction
Distinct pairing . Monogamous mating is observed as both obligate and social .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; non-migratory ; depth range 0 - 40 m . Tropical; 30°N - 30°S, 79°E - 130°W north to southern Japan, south to Rowley Shoals and New South Wales, Australia.
🌿 Ecology
filamentous algae, small invertebrates, coral polyps, and fish eggs
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chaetodon garnoti | Lesson | 1831 | Synonym |
| Chaetodon mulsanti | Thiollière | 1857 | Synonym |
| Chaetodon principalis | Cuvier | 1829 | Synonym |
| Rabdophorus rabdophorus ephippium | Cuvier | 1831 | Synonym |
🦠 Common Diseases
The following diseases are known to affect Saddle butterflyfish.
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 28 records indexed .
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