Fin's Fish Guide
The Crosshatch butterflyfish (Chaetodon xanthurus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The pearlscale butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the western Pacific. The species has a white body with a fine diamond-shaped net pattern on the scales, a dark band through the eye and an orange-yellow rear body and tail. It lives on clear coastal to outer reef slopes and drop-offs, often around staghorn coral. It feeds on small invertebrates, coral polyps and algae. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Crosshatch butterflyfish?
The Crosshatch butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a spots pattern. Fine diamond-shaped scale pattern with an orange-yellow tail; butterflyfish of staghorn coral.
Where does the Crosshatch butterflyfish live?
The Crosshatch butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Pacific; clear coastal to outer reef slopes.
How big does the Crosshatch butterflyfish get?
The Crosshatch butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Crosshatch butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Crosshatch butterflyfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Crosshatch butterflyfish edible?
The Crosshatch butterflyfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Want the complete picture on the Crosshatch butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Crosshatch butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Chaetodon
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Crosshatch butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Crosshatch butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.