Teardrop Butterflyfish

Chaetodon unimaculatus

Teardrop Butterflyfish (Chaetodon unimaculatus) is a reef-associated butterflyfish of the Indo-Pacific, often seen in pairs or small groups. It feeds mainly on coral polyps and other benthic invertebrates and is generally not considered a target angling species.

Saltwater

Teardrop Butterflyfish reference image — Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble, cc-by, via Wikimedia Commons. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Identification points

White to pale yellow body with a single large black teardrop/oval spot on the upper flank just behind the dorsal fin
Bold black vertical eye stripe across the face with yellowish body and dark-edged fins
Classic butterflyfish shape: laterally compressed, pointed snout, and continuous dorsal fin

Habitat

Shallow coral reefs, reef slopes, lagoon patch reefs, and outer reef edges; most common where live hard coral is abundant.

Bait notes

Rarely targeted by anglers; do not target for food. In aquarium capture contexts, tiny reef-invertebrate imitations or frozen coral-feeder substitutes are used, but wild capture is best avoided.

Behavior

Diurnal and active around coral heads, often in pairs or loose groups. It pecks at coral polyps, algae, and small invertebrates on the reef surface and is wary in open water.

Caution

Contains reefs with sharp coral hazards; live coral habitat is fragile and often protected. Not a food fish and should not be harvested from reef areas without confirming local rules.

Fishing notes

Not a recreational game fish. If observed for study or photography, approach slowly and avoid casting onto coral; use light tackle only if local regulations and collection permits allow, which is uncommon.