Butterflyfishes
Diagonal butterflyfish (Chaetodon fasciatus)
The Diagonal butterflyfish (Chaetodon fasciatus) belongs to the family Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes) and is endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It is an omnivore and usually seen in pairs or alone. It reaches about 20 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.

Quick facts
| Scientific name | Chaetodon fasciatus |
|---|---|
| Family | Butterflyfishes (Chaetodontidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce farfalla a strisce diagonali |
| Common name (EN) | Diagonal butterflyfish |
| Maximum size | 20 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Endemic to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
Description
Endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden; it does not occur elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden; it does not occur elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Gulf of Aden
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Diagonal butterflyfish belong to?
- The Diagonal butterflyfish (Chaetodon fasciatus) belongs to the family Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes).
- Is the Diagonal butterflyfish dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Diagonal butterflyfish endemic to the Red Sea?
- Yes — it lives only in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
- How big does the Diagonal butterflyfish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 20 cm.
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