Speckled Butterflyfish

Chaetodon citrinellus

The Speckled Butterflyfish is a small Indo-Pacific coral-reef butterflyfish with a yellow body and dense dark spotting. It usually feeds on coral polyps and small benthic invertebrates, and is most often seen in shallow reef habitat.

Saltwater

Speckled Butterflyfish reference image — Rickard Zerpe, cc-by, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

Bright yellow body covered in many small dark speckles
Dark eye stripe across the face
Usually a small, deep-bodied butterflyfish with a pale/white rear margin and fin edging

Habitat

Shallow coral and rocky reefs, lagoon patch reefs, and outer reef slopes, typically where live coral and mixed hard substrate are abundant; usually in clear tropical saltwater.

Bait notes

Not a common target species. Small reef baits such as tiny pieces of shrimp, clam, squid, or coral-reef fish flesh may draw strikes; very small micro-jigs or tiny soft plastics can also work.

Behavior

Diurnal and reef-associated, often seen singly or in pairs. It picks at coral surfaces and reef growth for small invertebrates and coral polyps, and may be territorial around feeding areas.

Caution

Marine ornamental/reef species; verify local rules before collecting or retaining. Avoid contact with coral to prevent cuts and reef damage; do not consume if local regulations prohibit harvest.

Fishing notes

Best pursued with light tackle around shallow reefs and coral heads. Present baits naturally and keep presentations small and subtle; avoid heavy gear that snags coral. Handle minimally and release quickly if not kept.