About Chaetodon oxycephalus Bleeker, 1853
Taxonomy and Common Names
The Spot-naped Butterflyfish (Chaetodon oxycephalus), also called the pig-face butterflyfish, is a species of marine ray-finned butterflyfish in the family Chaetodontidae.
Distribution Range
It occurs in the Indo-West Pacific region, ranging from Sri Lanka to Queensland, Australia, and northwards to Indonesia and the Philippines.
Maximum Size
This species reaches a maximum total length of 25 cm (9.8 inches).
Body Coloration and Markings
Its body is white, with thin vertical lines along the sides and a large black patch on the upper back.
Species Distinguishing Features
It is very similar to the Lined Butterflyfish (C. lineolatus), but can be distinguished by its vertical black eyestripe that is broken above the eye, and the presence of additional black and orange markings in its yellow dorsal and caudal fins.
Habitat and Depth Range
Spot-naped Butterflyfish inhabit coral-rich areas and clear waters on seaward reefs, at depths between 10 and 40 meters.
Diet
Their diet consists of coral polyps and sea anemones.
