Fin's Fish Guide
The Indian butterflyfish (Roa jayakari) is a saltwater fish of the family Chaetodontidae that grows up to 16 cm.
Description
The Indian butterflyfish is a butterflyfish (Chaetodontidae) from the northwest Indian Ocean, including the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. The species grows to about 16 cm and has a deep, white body with a few broad, dark vertical bands and yellow fin edges. As a reef-dweller it lives on deeper coral and rocky reefs and picks coral polyps and small invertebrates. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Indian butterflyfish?
The Indian butterflyfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly white and shows a vertical stripes pattern.
Where does the Indian butterflyfish live?
The Indian butterflyfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Asia: India, Jordan, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Somalia
How big does the Indian butterflyfish get?
The Indian butterflyfish grows to a maximum of about 16 cm.
Is the Indian butterflyfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Indian 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 Indian butterflyfish edible?
Yes, the Indian butterflyfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Roa
More from the family Chaetodontidae
Want the complete picture on the Indian butterflyfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Indian butterflyfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.