Butterflyfish are small, colorful fish that live on coral reefs in warm ocean waters. They get their name from their bright patterns and colors, which can look as striking as butterfly wings: vivid yellows, oranges, blacks, and whites arranged in stripes, spots, or patches.

These fish are usually only a few inches long and have thin, flat bodies that let them slip between coral branches. Many species have a dark spot near their tail that looks like an eye, which can confuse predators into attacking the wrong end of the fish. Their actual eyes may be hidden in a dark stripe across their face.

Butterflyfish eat coral polyps, small creatures, and algae using their pointed snouts, which work like tweezers to pick food from tight spaces in the reef. They often swim in pairs and stay with the same partner for years.

Scientists pay attention to butterflyfish populations because these fish are sensitive to changes in their environment. When coral reefs get damaged by pollution or warming water, butterflyfish struggle to survive, making them an important indicator of reef health.