Description:

Dorsal spines: 13-14; Dorsal rays: 20-22; Anal spines: 3; Anal rays: 16-17.

A small white to pale yellow butterflyfish with numerous small dark spots on the body. A black bar from the dorsal fin throough the eye. A black margin on the anal fin with 
a sub-marginal white band. Caudal fin is transparent. 
 

Size:

Maturity: Unknown. Max length : 13.0 cm TL.
 

Habitat and Ecology:

Inhabits inner reef flats, in lagoons, and on moderately exposed outer reefs (depth 1-36 m, usually 1-5 m). Feeds on coral polyps, algae, polychaetes and other benthic 
invertebrates. Often occurs in pairs, but may also be seen alone or in small groups. Oviparous. Form pairs during breeding. Juveniles often in small aggregations with  
with similar sized juveniles of other species, especially C. kleinii. 
 

Fishery Status:

This species is not protected or subject to fishery regulations. It may on occasion be subject to net fishing but would typically be released on capture.

Notes:

C. citrinellus can be distinguished from several similar species by the black lower anal fin margin.
Photo. courtesy and (c) 2021 GVI/SPGA. 

References:

Bray, D.J. Chaetodon citrinellus in Fishes of Australia, https://fishesofaustralia.net.au/home/species/2378 (23/06/22). 
Froese, R. & D. Pauly. Eds. (2022). FishBase. https://www.fishbase.de/summary/5561 (23/06/22).
McGrouther, M. (2021). Citron Butterflyfish, Chaetodon citrinellus (Cuvier 1831). Australian Museum. https://australian.museum/learn/animals/fishes/citron-butterflyfish-chaetodon-citrinellus/ (23/06/22). 
Myers, R. & Pratchett, M. (2010). Chaetodon citrinellus. The IUCN Red List 2010: https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2010-4.RLTS.T165668A6085813.en. (23/06/22).

Citation:

Nevill, J.E.G. (2022). Chaetodon citrinellus, Speckled butterflyfish. Seychelles Seatizens. www.seatizens.sc. https://seatizens.sc/species/chaetodon-citrinellus-cuvier-1831/