Lattice Butterflyfish
Chaetodon rafflesii
Lattice Butterflyfish (Chaetodon rafflesii) is a tropical reef butterflyfish with a fine netlike pattern on the body and a dark band through the eye. It lives on coral and rocky reefs, often in pairs or small groups, and feeds mainly on coral polyps and small benthic invertebrates.
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Identification points
- Distinct dark vertical band through the eye
- Reticulated yellow-and-brown lattice pattern over the body
- Long pointed snout with a rounded butterflyfish body profile
Habitat
Shallow tropical coral reefs, lagoon patch reefs, reef edges, and rocky reefs, usually where branching corals and reef structure provide cover; adults are commonly seen from very shallow water to moderate reef depths.
Bait notes
Not a typical target for bait fishing and is better appreciated by divers and aquarists than anglers. If encountered incidentally, it may peck at small marine invertebrate-style offerings, but capture is generally discouraged.
Behavior
A wary, diurnal reef feeder that picks at coral polyps, worms, and small crustaceans from reef surfaces. Often occurs in pairs and may defend feeding areas on the reef slope or lagoon edge.
Caution
Reef-associated species; avoid targeting for consumption because coral reef fish can carry ciguatera risk in some areas. Also handle carefully, as butterflyfish have small, delicate mouths and are stressed easily.
Fishing notes
No real sport fishery; avoid targeting this species on coral reefs. Reef anglers should release it immediately if hooked, minimize handling, and use barbless tackle to reduce injury to delicate mouthparts.