About Caesioperca lepidoptera (Forster, 1801)
Scientific Nomenclature and Body Form
The butterfly perch, with the scientific name Caesioperca lepidoptera (Forster, 1801), is a laterally compressed, deep-bodied fish that reaches a maximum length of 47 cm (19 in).
Base Color and Distinctive Marking
Its base body color is pinkish, and it has a large black spot near its posterior end.
Adult Blue Markings
Adult individuals have a blue band located just behind the eye, blue edges on their fins, and small blue spots across their body.
Pectoral Fin Length
Their pectoral fins are roughly the same length as their head.
Similar Species Confusion
This species is frequently confused with its close relative, the barber perch (Caesioperca rasor).
Species Distinguishing Features
Unlike the barber perch, the butterfly perch has a deeper body; male butterfly perch are also more pink, and have a dark side blotch instead of a dark side band.
General Distribution and Depth Range
Butterfly perch live in temperate waters surrounding Australia and New Zealand, found at depths down to approximately 100 m (328 ft).
Australian Coastal Range
In Australia, they occur mainly along the coasts of Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and New South Wales.
Schooling Behavior and Diet
They are a schooling species that inhabits coastal reefs and the surrounding areas, where they feed on plankton.
Nocturnal Shelter Habits
At night, butterfly perch shelter in reef crevices and caves.
