The Redtail Butterflyfish (Chaetodon collare) is a dazzling staple of the underwater landscape in the Similan Islands. Known locally as the "Collare Butterflyfish," these creatures are instantly recognizable by their vivid red-orange tails and the distinctive vertical white collar behind their eyes. Their bodies feature a mesmerizing dark cross-hatch pattern that shimmers against the clear blue backdrop of the Andaman Sea.
Divers frequently encounter these fish in shallow reef areas, such as East of Eden or Anita’s Reef, where hard corals thrive. They are almost exclusively seen in monogamous pairs, swimming in perfect synchronization as they patrol their territory. This behavior endears them to observers, adding a unique charm to the dive experience.
As corallivores, they feed primarily on coral polyps; thus, their abundant presence serves as a positive indicator of the reef's overall health. Although they can be skittish, patience allows underwater photographers to capture their striking beauty amidst the granite boulders.
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