The bluecheek butterflyfish is a striking resident of Red Sea coral reefs, recognisable by its bright yellow body, bold black facial markings, and the distinctive electric-blue patch on its cheek. Like other butterflyfishes, it feeds on coral polyps and small invertebrates, moving in pairs or small groups among branching corals. This species is endemic to the Red Sea and stays relatively shallow, typically found between 5 and 30 metres. It grows to around 15 cm and pairs may remain bonded for extended periods.
Taxonomy
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Teleostei
- Order
- Acanthuriformes
- Family
- Chaetodontidae
- Genus
- Chaetodon
Most likely to be seen at
Sites where its range and habitat make it likely — not yet confirmed by a logged sighting.