Saddleback Butterfly

Species: Chaetodon ephippium

About Saddleback Butterfly

Overall color is yellowish grey with a large black spot bordered below by a broad white band on the back, and wavy blue lines on the lower sides. Adults have a filament extending posteriorly from the upper part of the soft portion of the dorsal fin.

Occur in lagoons and seaward reefs to a depth of 30 m, prefers coral-rich and clear water areas. Encountered singly, in pairs or small groups (adults often in pairs; juveniles solitary and inshore). Feed on filamentous algae, small invertebrates, coral polyps, and fish eggs. Oviparous (Ref. 205). Form pairs during breeding (Ref. 205).

Ref: Myers, R.F.. 1991. (Ref. 1602)