Copperband butterflyfish
Chelmon rostratus
| Diet | Small invertebrates |
|---|---|
| Size | Length: Up to 7.8 inches (20 cm) |
| Type | Fishes |
| Range | Indian and West-Central Pacific Oceans |
| Habitat | Estuaries, rocky shores and coral reefs |
Did you know?
- At Shedd, these fish eat Aiptasia, which is a nuisance anemone that can grow out of control, killing other invertebrates in the habitat.
- Butterflyfish like this one hunt small animals by unhinging and extending their jaws. Scientists believe this technique helps the butterflyfish get closer to prey without the prey noticing.
- After extending its jaws, the copperband butterflyfish uses suction to pull the prey into its mouth.