Chaetodontidae

Chaetodontidae, commonly known as butterflyfishes, are a family of small to medium-sized marine fishes that inhabit tropical reefs. They are characterized by laterally compressed bodies, small mouths with beak-like teeth, and often bright, patterned coloration. The dorsal and anal fins are typically continuous, and many species exhibit distinctive eye-like markings on the tail or body.

Distribution and habitat: Butterflyfishes are distributed across tropical and subtropical oceans, with the greatest species diversity on Indo-Pacific coral reefs. They typically occupy lagoons and outer reef slopes, often in pairs that defend feeding territories. A few species occur in the western Atlantic or eastern Pacific, but most are Indo-Pacific.

Ecology and biology: The diet of Chaetodontidae varies by species. Many are corallivores, picking at live coral polyps, while others graze on algae or feed on small invertebrates. Their coral specialization makes them particularly vulnerable to reef decline and water quality changes. They are generally diurnal and often form long-lasting monogamous pairs that defend territories. Reproduction is typically through pelagic spawning: pairs release eggs and sperm into the water column, with larvae undergoing a planktonic phase before settlement.

In aquariums and conservation: Butterflyfishes are popular in marine aquaria for their color and patterning, but many species are challenging to maintain due to specific dietary needs and territorial behavior. Collection for the trade and broader threats to coral reefs pose conservation concerns; the IUCN status of species within the family ranges from least concern to vulnerable, depending on the species.