Copperband butterflyfish

Biology

The copperband butterflyfish lives alone or in pairs, in coral reefs and estuaries rich in algae, from which they feed. They are active during the day and by night they rest on rocks and amongst corals. They have a black spot on the posterior area of their body which fools predators into mistaking it for an eye. Therefore, when they try to attack, this butterflyfish swims away in the opposite direction.

Conservation

Coral reefs form biodiversity-rich ecosystems, sheltering more than 3000 animal species. They are highly threatened, both by human activities and by climate changes. To combat these factors, Marine Protected Areas were introduced, which promote responsible fishing and habitat protection.

Curiosities

This species has an elongated snout, forming a kind of tube, which is used for hunting in crevices and holes. Because of this feature it is also known as the beaked coral fish.