Fin's Fish Guide
The Diagonal butterflyfish (Chaetodon fasciatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 22 cm.
Description
The diagonal butterflyfish is a butterflyfish from the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The species grows to about 22 cm and has a deep, yellow body with a series of oblique, diagonal dark lines, a black eye band and a black band across the tail base. As a reef-dweller it searches in pairs among coral for polyps, small invertebrates and algae. The fish is harmless to humans and appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Diagonal butterflyfish?
The Diagonal butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Oblique diagonal lines and a black eye band; reef butterflyfish in pairs
Where does the Diagonal butterflyfish live?
The Diagonal butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Red Sea and Gulf of Aden
How big does the Diagonal butterflyfish get?
The Diagonal butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 22 cm. On average the species is around 15 cm.
Is the Diagonal butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Diagonal butterflyfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Diagonal butterflyfish edible?
The Diagonal butterflyfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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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 Diagonal butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Diagonal butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.