- Butterfly fish have flattened bodies with external fins that form an arc over the top of the fish. The bodies of most butterfly fish are a darker color with lighter patterns of spots and stripes.
- There are 114 different species of butterfly fish in the world. They vary mostly in color and body shape, but generally have the same features.
- Butterfly fish move by constant strokes of their pectoral fins and use their tails as a rudder. They are able to make quick, sharp movements, which help them avoid predators.
- Some species of butterfly fish are solitary animals. Others form relationships with one other fish, and the pair travel, hunt and live together their whole life.
- Different species of butterfly fish have varying feeding patterns. Some feed on coral polyps, others on algae, while still others prefer small shrimp or plankton.
- All butterfly fish are small, but the size varies among species. Full-size butterfly fish grow to be between 5- and 91/2-inches long.
Identification
Types
Movement
Social Behavior
Feeding
Size
SHARE
