Pacific Double-saddle Butterflyfish

Chaetodon ulietensis

The Pacific Double-saddle Butterflyfish is a reef-associated butterflyfish recognized by its two dark “saddles” on the body and yellow-and-white pattern. It feeds mostly on small benthic invertebrates and coral-associated organisms, and is mainly encountered by divers rather than anglers.

Saltwater

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

Identification points

Two distinct dark saddle-like bars across the upper body
Bright yellow body with a pale face and contrasting dark eye band
Rounded butterflyfish profile with a long, continuous dorsal fin

Habitat

Shallow tropical coral reefs, lagoon reefs, and seaward reef slopes, usually where branching corals, rubble, and reef structure provide cover; typically in warm saltwater.

Bait notes

Not a standard game species. If encountered by reef anglers, small pieces of shrimp, coral-reef worms, or tiny baitfish strips on very small hooks may attract it, though capture is uncommon and often incidental.

Behavior

Usually swims in pairs or small groups and picks at small crustaceans, worms, and coral polyps from reef surfaces during the day. It is alert, quick to retreat into coral cover, and not a common target fish.

Caution

Do not handle roughly; reef fish can be fragile and coral habitat is easily damaged. Some reef fishes are subject to local collection rules, and consumption is generally not the goal for this species.

Fishing notes

Best approached as an incidental reef fish, not a targeted catch. If attempting capture for observation or aquarium use, use very light tackle and tiny hooks near shallow reef structure; avoid damaging live coral.