Sealife guideThe Chaetodontidae familyThe taxonomy of marine species
Explore the taxonomy of the sea vertebrates including the cetaceans like the whales or the dolphins, the sea birds, the fish, the sharks and the sea turtles !
The order Acanthuriformes consists of tropical marine fish known for their vibrant colors and diverse shapes, including surgeonfish, angelfish and butterflyfish, commonly found in coral reefs. These species are distinguished by unique features such as sharp spines on their tails or angular body shapes, playing a key role in maintaining the ecological balance of reefs.
The Chaetodontidae family consists of tropical marine fish known as butterflyfish and bannerfish, primarily found in coral reefs. Recognizable by their laterally compressed bodies, vibrant colors, and striking patterns often marked with stripes or spots, these fish play a vital role in maintaining the balance and health of coral reef ecosystems.

Banded butterflyfish
(Chaetodon striatus)
(Chaetodon striatus)

Blackback butterflyfish
(Chaetodon melannotus)
(Chaetodon melannotus)

Blacklip butterflyfish
(Chaetodon kleinii)
(Chaetodon kleinii)

Blackwedged butterflyfish
(Chaetodon falcula)
(Chaetodon falcula)

Chevroned butterflyfish
(Chaetodon trifascialis)
(Chaetodon trifascialis)

Copperbanded butterfly
(Chelmon rostratus)
(Chelmon rostratus)

Crown butterflyfish
(Chaetodon paucifasciatus)
(Chaetodon paucifasciatus)

Eastern triangle butterflyfish
(Chaetodon baronessa)
(Chaetodon baronessa)

Eightband butterflyfish
(Chaetodon octofasciatus)
(Chaetodon octofasciatus)

Exquisite butterflyfish
(Chaetodon austriacus)
(Chaetodon austriacus)

Foureye butterflyfish
(Chaetodon capistratus)
(Chaetodon capistratus)

Hooded butterflyfish
(Chaetodon larvatus)
(Chaetodon larvatus)

Horned bannerfish
(Heniochus varius)
(Heniochus varius)

Latticed butterfly
(Chaetodon rafflesii)
(Chaetodon rafflesii)

Longnose butterflyfish
(Forcipiger flavissimus)
(Forcipiger flavissimus)

Masked butterflyfish
(Chaetodon semilarvatus)
(Chaetodon semilarvatus)
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Flabelline mauve
(Flabellina affinis)
(Flabellina affinis)