Thompson's Butterflyfish
Hemitaurichthys thompsoni
- Group: Butterflyfish
- Typical depth: 4–300 m
- Max size: 18 cm
- For divers: safe
- IUCN status: LC
This butterflyfish gathers in schools above steep outer reef slopes, ranging from clear lagoon reefs at about 4 metres down to roughly 300 metres. It feeds on drifting zooplankton, pairs off to breed, and stays an uncommon sight.
Taxonomy: Animalia › Chordata › Teleostei › Acanthuriformes › Chaetodontidae › Hemitaurichthys
Species data via the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), AphiaID 277576.
FAQ
- How deep does the Thompson's Butterflyfish live?
- The Thompson's Butterflyfish (Hemitaurichthys thompsoni) is typically found at 4–300 m.
- Is the Thompson's Butterflyfish dangerous to divers?
- The Thompson's Butterflyfish is harmless to divers.
- How big does the Thompson's Butterflyfish get?
- The Thompson's Butterflyfish grows to about 18 cm.