Aquatic Elegance: The Genus Parachaetodon
An in-depth academic exploration of the Parachaetodon genus, focusing on the sixspine butterflyfish (Parachaetodon ocellatus), its biology, distribution, and classification.
Explore Genus ๐ Key Features ๐Dive in with Flashcard Learning!
๐ฎ Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game๐ฎ
The Genus: Parachaetodon
Taxonomic Classification
The genus Parachaetodon is a distinct taxonomic rank within the family Chaetodontidae, commonly known as butterflyfishes. This genus is characterized by its monotypic nature, meaning it contains only a single recognized species.
Monotypic Status
Parachaetodon is exclusively represented by the species Parachaetodon ocellatus. This singular species defines the entirety of the genus, making it a unique subject of study within ichthyology. The genus was established by Pieter Bleeker in 1874.
Geographic Context
The sole member of this genus, P. ocellatus, inhabits the tropical marine environments of the Indo-Pacific region. Its distribution spans from the eastern Indian Ocean to the western Pacific Ocean, underscoring its significance in these biodiverse marine ecosystems.
The Sole Species: P. ocellatus
Common Names
This species is known by several common names reflecting its distinctive appearance. It is widely referred to as the sixspine butterflyfish, the ocellate butterflyfish, or the eyespot butterflyfish. These names are derived from its physical characteristics and markings.
Conservation Status
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, Parachaetodon ocellatus is classified as Least Concern. This designation indicates that the species is not currently facing significant threats to its survival across its range, based on the latest assessments.
Taxonomic Synonyms
Historically, Parachaetodon ocellatus has been described under various scientific names. These synonyms provide insight into the evolution of its classification:
Morphological Description
Body Shape and Fins
Parachaetodon ocellatus exhibits a distinctly triangular body shape, characteristic of many butterflyfish species. The dorsal fin is notably large and predominantly yellow. The anal fin also contributes to its overall profile, providing balance and maneuverability.
Coloration and Markings
The body coloration is primarily white, overlaid with five distinct brown or orange bands. The foremost band traverses the eye, bordered by black. A notable feature is a dark blotch situated near the base of the dorsal fin, associated with the band originating beneath the fin's midpoint. Additionally, an oval-shaped black mark with a silvery anterior margin is present on the caudal peduncle. Fainter bands are visible along the margins of the dorsal and anal fins.
Fin Ray Counts and Size
Detailed fin morphology includes 6-7 spines and 28-30 soft rays in the dorsal fin, and 3 spines with 18-20 soft rays in the anal fin. This species can reach a maximum total length of approximately 18 centimeters (7.1 inches).
Geographic Distribution
Indo-Pacific Range
The species possesses a broad distribution across the Indo-Pacific region. Its range extends from the waters of eastern India and Sri Lanka eastward through Southeast Asia, encompassing Indonesia and the Philippines.
Pacific and Australian Waters
Further east, its presence extends into the Pacific Ocean, reaching as far north as the Ryukyu Islands and Ogasawara Islands of Japan. In Australian waters, it is found from the Houtman Abrolhos in Western Australia, with juveniles occasionally observed as far south as Perth. The species is also present along Australia's tropical coast and extends south to Sydney on the east coast.
Habitat and Biology
Reef and Coastal Environments
Parachaetodon ocellatus typically inhabits coastal and inner reef systems. They are commonly observed in pairs or small aggregations, preferring open areas characterized by sand or silt substrates, often interspersed with patches of sponges.
Juvenile Habitats
Juveniles of the species are occasionally found in seagrass beds within sheltered environments such as bays and lagoons, indicating a potential difference in habitat preference during early life stages.
Diet and Reproduction
The diet of Parachaetodon ocellatus primarily consists of small benthic invertebrates and potentially some species of sponges. As an oviparous species, it reproduces by laying eggs, typically forming distinct pairs for the purpose of spawning.
Systematic Classification
Historical Taxonomy
The species was initially described by Georges Cuvier in 1831 under the binomial name Platax ocellatus. Later, in 1850, Pieter Bleeker described it as Chaetodon oligacanthus. Bleeker subsequently established the genus Parachaetodon in 1874, placing C. ocellatus within it. Subsequent taxonomic work has largely recognized Parachaetodon as a valid genus, with P. ocellatus as its sole representative.
Relationships within Chaetodontidae
The genus Parachaetodon belongs to the family Chaetodontidae, a diverse group of marine fish. Its placement within this family reflects shared morphological and evolutionary characteristics with other butterflyfish species, despite its unique monotypic status.
Key Identifiers
For researchers and database management, Parachaetodon is associated with numerous taxonomic identifiers across various biological databases:
Teacher's Corner
Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio
Click here to open the "Parachaetodon" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit
Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.
True or False?
Test Your Knowledge!
Gamer's Corner
Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!
Play now
References
References
Feedback & Support
To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.
Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional biological or ichthyological advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment from qualified marine biologists, ichthyologists, or conservationists. Always refer to official scientific literature and consult with experts for specific research or conservation needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.