Chaetodon auriga Forsskål, 1775

Threadfin butterflyfish

Catalog of Fishes (gen., sp.) | ITIS | CoL

Classification	Actinopterygii \| Perciformes \| Chaetodontidae
Synonyms	Anisochaetodon auriga, Linophora auriga, Sarothrodus auriga, ... more
Common names	Cross-stripe butterfly, Papillon cocher, Papillon jaune, ... more

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Chaetodon auriga

Picture by Patzner, R.

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This map was computer-generated and has not yet been reviewed.

AquaMaps Data sources: GBIF OBIS

Main reference

Allen, G.R. 1985. (Ref. 4858)
Other references | Biblio | Coordinator | Collaborators

Size / Weight / Age

Max length : 23.0 cm TL male/unsexed; (Ref. 4859)

Length at first maturity

L_m 13.0 range ? - ? cm

Environment

Reef-associated; non-migratory; marine; depth range 1 - 35 m (Ref. 11441)

Climate / Range

Tropical; 30°N - 20°S

Indo-Pacific: Red Sea and East Africa (extending to Mossel Bay, South Africa, Ref. 5372) to the Hawaiian, Marquesan, and Ducie islands, north to southern Japan, south to Lord Howe and Rapa islands.
Countries | FAO areas | Ecosystems | Occurrences | Introductions

Short description

Dorsal spines (total): 12 - 13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 22 - 25; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 19 - 21. There is a pattern of `chevron' markings on the sides and a prominent black spot at the posterior edge of the soft portion of the dorsal fin. Adults of this species have a prominent black vertical band running across the eye, and a filament trailing posteriorly from the upper soft portion of the dorsal fin. Juveniles with a black bar over the head that hides the eye and an eye-sized black spot on the soft dorsal fin (Ref. 48636).

May be seen in a variety of habitats ranging from rich coral reefs (Ref. 58652) to weedy and rubble covered areas (Ref. 1602). Benthopelagic (Ref. 58302). Maybe found singly, in pairs, and in aggregations that roam over large distances in search of food. Feed mainly by tearing pieces from polychaetes, sea anemones, coral polyps, and algae (Ref. 1602). Oviparous (Ref. 205). Form pairs during breeding (Ref. 205).


IUCN Red List Status (Ref. 84930)	Threat to humans
Not Evaluated	Harmless (Ref. 4859)

Human uses
Fisheries: minor commercial; aquarium: commercial


More information
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