Chelmon rostratus (Linnaeus, 1758)

Common Name & Key Identifying Features

Chelmon rostratus, commonly known as the copperband butterflyfish, can be easily identified by its yellow banding and long snout. Juvenile fish have a similar appearance to adult individuals.

Size

This butterflyfish species grows up to 20 cm in total length.

Body Shape & Fin Structure

It has a compressed, deep-bodied form that makes it appear taller than it is long, along with a long dorsal fin and prominent posterior fins.

Body Coloration

Its body has vertical yellow stripes set against a white background.

Snout & Eye Features

The snout is long and slender, and the fish's actual dark eye is less noticeable than the dark eye-spot located on its dorsal fin.

Tail Marking

A dark band runs perpendicular to the tail at the base of the tail.

Similar Species Distinction

This species can be told apart from the closely similar Chelmon marginalis by differences in color pattern and the number of dorsal fin rays.

Depth Range & Social Grouping

Copperband butterflyfish inhabit depths between 1 and 25 metres, and they are found either alone or in pairs.

Breeding Pairing

They form monogamous pairs during the breeding season.

Habitat

They most commonly occur on coral reefs and rocky shorelines, and can also be found in estuaries and silty inner reefs.

Behavior & Reproduction

This species is territorial and oviparous.