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, longsnout butterflyfish live in deep coral reef communities and ocean floor drop offs.
Details:
These coral reef-dwelling fish use their long snouts to reach into crevices and feed on small invertebrates such as coral polyps and crustaceans. They are yellow-orange on top with white bellies and dark brown dorsal fins. Longsnout butterflyfish are often seen in pairs and stay with one partner for life. They defend their territory from other butterflyfish species.