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Longsnout butterflyfish

Prognathodes aculeatus

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Fun Facts

Longsnout butterflyfish are solitary in nature until breeding season, when they pair off to reproduce. 

Species Type:

Fishes

Common Name(s):

Longsnout butterflyfish

Size:

These fish grow up to 3.7 inches (9.5 centimeters) in length.

Diet:

These butterflyfish feed on marine invertebrates like shrimp, as well as sea urchins, worms and the parasites on the bodies of other fishes.

Range & Habitat:

Throughout the western Atlantic ocean and Gulf of Mexico, longsnout butterflyfish live in deep coral reef communities and ocean floor drop offs.

Details:

Longsnout butterflyfish are named after their long faces. They have yellow-orange topsides and white bellies. Dark brown coloring highlights their dorsal fins and areas near their eyes.