Mitratus Butterflyfish

Mitratus Butterflyfish

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Chaetodon mitratus

Overview
Reef Compatible: YES
Diet: Omnivore
Temperament: Docile
Origin: South Asia

Chaetodon mitratus, commonly known as the Indian butterflyfish or headband butterflyfish, is a striking marine ray-finned fish belonging to the family Chaetodontidae. This species is found in the Indian Ocean. Its vibrant appearance and graceful form make it a favorite among both aquarists and deep-water divers. Let’s dive into some fascinating details about this captivating fish:

• Appearance:

  • The Indian butterflyfish has a yellow body adorned with two broad, black oblique bands running across its flanks.
  • A black eye band shades to orange below the eye.
  • Its pelvic fins, dorsal fin, anal fin, and caudal fin are all a cheerful shade of yellow.
  • At its maximum standard length, it reaches 14 centimeters (5.5 inches)¹.

• Distribution:

  • The Indian butterflyfish has a scattered distribution across the Indian Ocean.
  • It has been recorded in various locations, including the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Australia, Maldives Islands, Mauritius, Réunion, Amirante Islands, Cosmoledo Island (Seychelles), and the Chagos Archipelago (British Indian Ocean Territory).

• Habitat and Behavior:

  • This species prefers relatively deep waters, residing at depths between 22 and 80 meters (72 to 262 feet), commonly found at 50 to 68 meters (164 to 223 feet).
  • Indian butterflyfish are often encountered in small groups of up to 5 individuals on the steep outer drop-offs of reefs, in rubble areas, and among regions where black coral and sea fansthrive.
  • They form pairs for breeding and are oviparous.
  • Their diet consists of zooplankton and benthic invertebrates.

• Taxonomy:

  • The Indian butterflyfish was first formally described by the German-born British zoologist Albert Günther in 1860, with the type locality given as Mauritius.

• Aquarium Trade:

  • Due to its deep-water habitat, the Indian butterflyfish is infrequently collected and thus commands a high price in the aquarium trade.

Next time you explore the ocean depths, keep an eye out for this exquisite butterflyfish!