Butterflyfishes
Masked butterflyfish (Chaetodon semilarvatus)
The Masked butterflyfish (Chaetodon semilarvatus) belongs to the family Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes) and is endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. It reaches about 23 cm and is found at 3–20 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Chaetodon semilarvatus |
|---|---|
| Authority | Cuvier, 1831 |
| Family | Butterflyfishes (Chaetodontidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce farfalla mascherato |
| Common name (EN) | Masked butterflyfish |
| Maximum size | 23 cm |
| Depth | 3–20 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.
- Gulf of Aqaba
- Egitto
- Arabia e Sudan
- Gulf of Aden
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Masked butterflyfish belong to?
- The Masked butterflyfish (Chaetodon semilarvatus) belongs to the family Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes).
- Is the Masked butterflyfish dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Masked butterflyfish endemic to the Red Sea?
- Yes — it lives only in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
- How big does the Masked butterflyfish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 23 cm.
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