How to Identify Pearlscale Butterflyfish

To identify Pearlscale Butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is primarily white to silvery-white, adorned with numerous small, dark spots that create a 'pearlscale' effect. A prominent black bar runs vertically through the eye. The posterior part of the body, including the caudal peduncle and caudal fin, is bright yellow. The dorsal and anal fins often have yellow margins.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Pearl-like spotting on the body, Bright yellow caudal fin and caudal peduncle, Black vertical bar through the eye, Yellow margins on dorsal and anal fins

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 13-14 spines and 20-22 soft rays.

Tail fin

Truncate to slightly emarginate, bright yellow.

Pectoral fin

Transparent to slightly yellowish.

Distinctive fins

The yellow coloration of the caudal fin and peduncle is a key distinguishing feature.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Pattern

   Look for the distinctive white body covered in small, dark spots resembling pearls. This is the most immediate identifier.

2. 2

   Tail Color

   The bright yellow caudal fin and caudal peduncle are unmistakable and differentiate it from many other butterflyfish species.

3. 3

   Eye Bar

   A prominent black vertical bar passing through the eye is a common butterflyfish trait, but combined with the other features, it aids in identification.

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