The Hooded butterflyfish (Chaetodon larvatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 12 cm.
Description
The Hooded butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. The species grows to about 12 cm and has a deep, laterally compressed, disc-shaped body with a small, pointed mouth. It has an orange head and a blue-grey body with fine, V-shaped chevron lines. As a reef-dweller it searches coral and rocky reefs for coral polyps, small invertebrates and algae; many species live in pairs. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Hooded butterflyfish?
The Hooded butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly red-orange.
Where does the Hooded butterflyfish live?
The Hooded butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: Djibouti, Israel, Jordan, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Sudan and others
How big does the Hooded butterflyfish get?
The Hooded butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 12 cm. On average the species is around 12 cm.
Is the Hooded butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Hooded 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 Hooded butterflyfish edible?
Yes, the Hooded butterflyfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Hooded butterflyfish and live in the same waters.

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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 Hooded butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Hooded butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.