Oriental Butterflyfish

Chaetodon auripes

Chaetodon auripes, known as the Oriental Butterflyfish, is a marine fish found in the western Pacific Ocean, particularly off the coasts of Japan, South Korea, China, and Vietnam. This species is easily recognizable by its vivid yellow body and fins, with a prominent black band running vertically through its eyes, followed by a thinner white band. Juveniles display a black ocellus on the dorsal fin, which fades as they mature. The Oriental Butterflyfish can grow to a length of 20 cm. Inhabiting rocky reefs, this species is typically found at depths ranging from 1 to 30 meters, although it can occasionally be found as deep as 150 meters. It is adapted to cooler waters, tolerating temperatures down to 10°C. Divers may encounter these fish either alone or in small aggregations, often amidst coral and algae. Their diet consists of filamentous algae, worms, crustaceans, and various benthic invertebrates, including corals and sea anemones. The Oriental Butterflyfish is oviparous and forms monogamous pairs during the breeding season. While it is part of the aquarium trade, it is considered rare. According to the IUCN Red List, the species is categorized as Least Concern.