Lined Butterflyfish
Chaetodon lineolatus
The Lined Butterflyfish is a large coral-reef butterflyfish with bold yellow-and-white striping and a distinct black eye band. It occurs across the Indo-Pacific on shallow reef slopes and lagoons, where it feeds mainly on coral polyps and small invertebrates.
Identification points
- Tall, laterally compressed butterflyfish body with a long snout
- Numerous thin vertical yellow-brown lines over a pale body
- Broad black eye stripe with yellow edging and a black tail spot
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, outer reef slopes, lagoons, and surge zones, typically around rich coral growth at clear tropical marine depths from the surface to about 30 m.
Bait notes
Rarely targeted by anglers; if incidentally hooked, small pieces of shrimp, clam, or coral-reef cut bait may take it, but collection is usually discouraged and often restricted.
Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups on reefs; it is diurnal and picks at coral heads and benthic invertebrates. It is not a common sport fish and is generally better observed than targeted.
Caution
Do not eat or target for food without confirming local rules; reef butterflyfish are usually non-game aquarium species and may be protected locally. Avoid handling around coral because fins and skin are delicate.
Fishing notes
Not a practical game species. Use very light tackle only if legally collecting for aquarium/scientific purposes, and handle minimally to avoid damaging delicate fins and coral habitat; catch-and-release is preferable.