The Butterfly Perch (Caesioperca lepidoptera) is a vibrantly colored reef fish native to the temperate coastal waters of southern Australia and New Zealand. Recognized for its striking pink and blue hues and its preference for rocky reefs and kelp forests, the Butterfly Perch is a small, schooling species that plays a minor but notable role in local fisheries. While not a major target for large-scale commercial operations, it is occasionally harvested as part of mixed-species catches by small-scale commercial and recreational fishers, particularly in Australia’s southern states such as Victoria, South Australia, and Tasmania. New Zealand also sees limited catch of Butterfly Perch, primarily for local consumption. The species is valued for its delicate flesh but is more commonly appreciated by divers and aquarium enthusiasts due to its beauty. Overall, Australia and New Zealand are the primary countries involved in the harvesting of Butterfly Perch, with the fishing industry focusing on sustainable practices to maintain healthy reef ecosystems.
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Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.