How to Identify Blacklip Butterflyfish

To identify Blacklip Butterflyfish (Chaetodon melanoleucus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Predominantly white body with a broad, vertical black band running from the dorsal fin through the eye to the mouth, giving it the 'blacklip' appearance. Another prominent black band runs vertically from the anterior dorsal fin to the pectoral fin base. The posterior part of the body, including the caudal peduncle and caudal fin, is typically yellow, often with a black submarginal band on the caudal fin. The dorsal and anal fins have black margins.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Prominent black band through the eye and mouth., Yellow posterior body and caudal fin., Black margins on dorsal and anal fins.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 12-13 spines and 20-22 soft rays.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate caudal fin, typically yellow with a black submarginal band.

Pectoral fin

Transparent to yellowish pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 17-18 soft rays. Pelvic fins are white with a black leading edge.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration Pattern

   The most distinguishing feature is the stark black and white body with a prominent black band through the eye and mouth, and a yellow posterior body and caudal fin. This pattern is quite unique among butterflyfishes.

2. 2

   Size

   Reaches a maximum standard length of about 18 cm (7 inches).

3. 3

   Behavior

   Often seen singly or in pairs, actively foraging among corals and rocks.

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