Chaetodon declivis, commonly known as the Marquesas butterflyfish, is a captivating marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Chaetodontidae. This exquisite species graces the central Pacific Ocean with its presence.
Here are some fascinating details about the Marquesas butterflyfish:
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Appearance: The Marquesas butterflyfish boasts a silvery-white body adorned with black spots. Its upper posterior region features a distinctive blackish wedge-shaped area. A yellow vertical band elegantly runs through its eye. The dorsal fin is a warm yellowish-orange, while the caudal fin gleams in yellow.
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Size: These graceful fish can reach a total length of approximately 12 centimeters (4.7 inches).
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Habitat: The Marquesas butterflyfish prefers rocky and sandy bottoms, residing at depths ranging from 20 to 80 meters (66 to 262 feet).
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Diet: In the wild, this omnivorous species feeds on a diverse menu, including coral polyps, fanworms, crustaceans, tunicates, and algae.
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Distribution: Its range is limited to the Central Pacific Ocean, specifically the Line Islands in the United States Minor Outlying Islands, Phoenix Islands in French Polynesia, and the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia.
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Taxonomy and Etymology: The Marquesas butterflyfish was formally described by American ichthyologist John Ernest Randall in 1975. The specific name “declivis” refers to the diagonally sloping dark patch on its upper posterior body and fins.
In summary, the Marquesas butterflyfish graces the ocean depths with its elegance, adding a touch of wonder to the underwater world.
