©John Turnbull: Schools appear at times to be chaotic - then all of a sudden they turn as one and swim together. Eaglehawk, Tasmania
Colours
Distinguishing features
The butterfly perch is a laterally compressed, deep-bodied fish. It is a pinkish colour and has a large black spot towards the posterior end. Adults have a blue band just behind the eye, blue margins to the fins and small blue spots. The pectoral fins are about as long as the head. This fish is often confused with the closely related barber perch (Caesioperca rasor). However, the butterfly perch has a deeper body, and males are more pink with a dark blotch rather than band on the side. (Wikipedia)
Size
- Size data has not been obtained.
Depth range
- Up to 100 m
Synonyms
Distribution and habitat preferences
The butterfly perch is found in the temperate waters around Australia and New Zealand.
In Australia it mainly occurs along the coasts of eastern West Australia, Southern Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and New South Wales.
It is a schooling fish and is found on and around coastal reefs where it feeds on plankton. The butterfly perch shelters in crevices and caves at night. (Wikipedia)
