Tahiti butterflyfish
📖 Overview
Tahiti butterflyfish (Chaetodon trichrous) is a ray-finned fish of the family Chaetodontidae. It inhabits marine (saltwater) waters in reef-associated environments. This species can reach a maximum total length of 12 cm. It occurs at depths between 0 and 25 metres. With a trophic level of 3.3, it is a low-level carnivore, feeding on invertebrates and small organisms. It is assessed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Commercially fished and consumed as food.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 21 - 23; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 17 - 19. : short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Tahiti butterflyfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Tahiti butterflyfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Oviparous, form pairs during breeding .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 0 - 25 m . Tropical
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Tahiti butterflyfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.7 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 123 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Tahiti butterflyfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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