Black-nosed Butterflyfish
Johnrandallia nigrirostris
The Black-nosed Butterflyfish is a reef-associated butterflyfish with a distinctive dark snout and a pale body marked by fine yellow lines. It is primarily a coral-reef dweller in the eastern Pacific, feeding on small invertebrates picked from the reef.
Identification points
- Pale yellowish body with fine horizontal lines typical of butterflyfishes
- Distinct black snout or dark facial mark around the nose
- Deep, disk-shaped body with a narrow pointed snout
Habitat
Shallow rocky and coral reefs, reef faces, and surge zones in the eastern Pacific, typically over hard bottom where it can pick at encrusting organisms and tiny invertebrates.
Bait notes
Not a standard angling target and is rarely baited intentionally. If encountered in aquarium-related capture contexts, tiny natural foods such as small crustacean flesh or finely chopped marine invertebrates are more relevant than conventional sport baits; avoid unnecessary collection.
Behavior
Diurnal and usually seen singly or in pairs; it forages by nipping at small benthic invertebrates and reef-associated food items, staying close to structure and moving deliberately over the reef.
Caution
Handle carefully around coral habitat to avoid reef damage. It is not a mainstream food fish and there is little consumption guidance; avoid taking reef ornamental species where local regulations restrict collection, and check local protections before capture.
Fishing notes
Recreational fishing is generally not practiced for this species. Observation, snorkeling, or reef-safe catch-and-release handling is more appropriate than targeted capture; if collected, use very small, delicate gear and minimize reef contact.