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| fishes text index | photo index |
| Phylum Chordata > Subphylum Vertebrate > fishes > Family Chaetodontidae |
| Copperband
butterflyfish Chelmon rostratus Family Chaetodontidae updated Sep 09
Where seen? This gaily patterned fish is commonly seen on many of our shores, among coral rubble and near reefs. It is said to be more active during the day, but those seen at night were quite frisky. Features: To about 20cm, those seen during low tide usually about 4-8cm. Four bands across the body which are orange or yellow edged in black and white. A pointed snout and a distinctive white-ringed black eye spot on the dorsal fin. The pelvic fins are bright orange and yellow. Usually seen alone or in pairs. It is sometimes called the Beaked coralfish. Adults have proportionally taller fins and usually found in monogamous pairs, swimming in the open near the sea bottom. Juveniles are solitary, more secretive and found in shallower water. What does it eat? It eats mostly worms. Human uses: Unfortunately these beautiful fishes are popular in the live aquarium trade although they are considered among the most difficult to keep and feed. |
 Sentosa, Oct 03  Pointed snout to nibble on small things. |
Has a false eye to distract potential predators.
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 They are often caught in fish traps Kusu Island, Jun 04 |
 It almost disappears when seen from above or head on. Sentosa, Oct 03 |
Copperband butterflyfishes on Singapore shores
 Pulau Sekudu, Jul 04 |
 Pulau Sekudu, Jul 08 |
 Chek Jawa, Jun 06 |
Links
References
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Periplus Editions. 292 pp.|
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