About Hemitaurichthys zoster (Bennett, 1831)
Scientific Name & Maximum Length
The black pyramid butterflyfish, scientifically named Hemitaurichthys zoster (Bennett, 1831), is a small fish that can grow up to a maximum length of 18 centimeters.
Body Shape
Its body is laterally compressed and has a rounded overall profile.
Snout & Mouth Features
Its snout is somewhat elongated, and it has a small, terminal, protractile mouth.
Body Coloration & Markings
The body is primarily black, with a broad white trapezoid band crossing its center. The upper edge of this band is yellow, which aligns with the center of the dorsal fin.
Caudal Fin Color
Its caudal fin is white.
Species Distribution
Hemitaurichthys zoster is widely distributed across the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian Ocean, ranging from the eastern coast of Africa to Java (Indonesia), and from India to Mauritius.
Schooling & Feeding Behavior
It forms large schools on outer reef slopes, and the schools will move out into open water to feed on plankton.
Depth Range
This species occurs at depths between 3 and 40 meters.
