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spotfin butterflyfish

Chaetodon ocellatus

Rank
Species
Family
Chaetodontidae
Order
Acanthuriformes

The spotfin butterflyfish is a small, laterally flattened member of the butterflyfish family found on coral and rocky reefs across tropical Atlantic waters. Its pale body is crossed by dark vertical bands, and a striking black spot marks the soft dorsal fin—the 'spotfin' that gives it its name. These fish are typically seen in pairs or small groups, hovering near coral heads to pick at polyps and small invertebrates. They inhabit shallow to moderate depths and are common in dive destinations throughout their range.

Taxonomy

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Teleostei
Order
Acanthuriformes
Family
Chaetodontidae
Genus
Chaetodon