How to Identify Teardrop Butterflyfish

To identify Teardrop Butterflyfish (Chaetodon unimaculatus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is predominantly bright yellow, transitioning to white or pale yellow on the ventral side. A prominent, black, tear-shaped or oval spot is located on the upper flank, just below the anterior part of the dorsal fin. A thin, black vertical bar runs through the eye. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are typically yellow, often with a thin white or pale blue margin.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Bright yellow body coloration, Single, prominent black tear-shaped spot on the upper flank, Black bar through the eye

Dorsal fin

Typically 13-14 dorsal spines and 19-23 soft rays. The spiny portion is continuous with the soft-rayed portion.

Tail fin

Caudal fin is truncate to slightly rounded.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are clear to yellowish.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin has 3 spines and 18-21 soft rays. Pelvic fins are yellow.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Color

   Look for the vibrant yellow body, which is a key identifier.

2. 2

   Black Spot

   The single, distinct black tear-shaped or oval spot on the upper flank is the most definitive characteristic.

3. 3

   Eye Bar

   A thin black vertical bar passing through the eye helps distinguish it from some other yellow butterflyfish species.

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