Dusky Butterflyfish

The Dusky Butterfly fish (Chaetodon flavirostris) is a very distinct fish with dark grey to black bodies. Adults have a deep black hump over the nape, with a short black horizontal line over the eye (similar to that of an eyebrow). An orange ring appears on the short beak which is tipped in white. The rear upper back has an orange crescent which differs in intensity. The dorsal through to the anal fin is rimmed in yellow and orange. Juveniles are solitary and lack the black hump but exhibit a black spot on the dorsal fin. Adults are usually found in pairs along coastal reefs and sheltered bays.

Size: 20cm in length

Diet: feed on algae, coral and small benthic invertebrates.