What Preys on Butterfly Fish?

Butterflyfish, members of the saltwater family Chaetodontidae, inhabit coral reef ecosystems throughout the world. Science has documented 114 species of butterflyfish, divided in 10 distinct genera. A butterflyfish's specific predators depend upon its habitat and range. In general, butterflyfish have strong defensive adaptations, which protect them from the majority of undersea predators.

  1. Natural Predators

    • Young butterflyfish are more likely than adults to die as a result of predation. Butterflyfish eggs become a part of the zooplankton in reef ecosystems, so plankton-eating fish and invertebrates may inadvertently eat them. Small, young fry may fall prey to larger butterflyfish as well as eels, anemones and jellyfish. Snappers, sharks and eels may target adult butterflyfish. The predator species involved vary tremendously between regions and butterflyfish species.

    Defensive Mechanisms

    • Butterflyfish are well-adapted to life in their coral reef ecosystems, so natural predators do not pose a major risk to any butterflyfish species. Due to their small size, they can easily hide in rocks, caves and other crevices found in coral reefs. The animal's bilaterial compression, or "pancaked" appearance, makes it a difficult target for top predators. Some butterflyfish travel in schools or shoals for extra defense. Most species also have an "eyespot" on their backs, which can startle and trick any would-be predators.

    Anthropogenic Threats

    • Humans are, by far, the most significant threat to the viability of wild butterflyfish populations. Global warming and pollution have caused significant "bleaching" and mass die-off of coral reef ecosystems throughout the world. As a result, many butterflyfish are losing their habitats and food sources. Unethical fishing practices have also inadvertently harmed coral reefs worldwide. Additionally, some butterflyfish species are captured and sold to hobbyists for use in home aquariums.

    Relationships with Other Species

    • The butterflyfish is an accomplished predator and plays a key role in regulating the populations of its prey animals. Adult butterflyfish often eat jellyfish and other small, aquatic invertebrates. Young crabs, lobsters, krill, shrimp and other crustaceans comprise a large portion of some butterflyfish diets. Other species specialize in eating fish eggs or young fish, while others target small adults of undersized coral-dwelling species. As both a predator and prey animal, butterflyfish form a core link in the stability of reef systems.