Butterflyfishes
Chevron butterflyfish (Chaetodon trifascialis)
The Chevron butterflyfish (Chaetodon trifascialis) belongs to the family Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It is a coral feeder and usually seen in pairs or alone. It reaches about 15 cm and is found at 1–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Near Threatened. It is not dangerous to divers.

Quick facts
| Scientific name | Chaetodon trifascialis |
|---|---|
| Family | Butterflyfishes (Chaetodontidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce farfalla chevron |
| Common name (EN) | Chevron butterflyfish |
| Maximum size | 15 cm |
| Depth | 1–50 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | NT — Near Threatened |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indo-Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Chevron butterflyfish belong to?
- The Chevron butterflyfish (Chaetodon trifascialis) belongs to the family Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes).
- Is the Chevron butterflyfish dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Chevron butterflyfish endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Chevron butterflyfish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 15 cm.
Explore the Chevron butterflyfish in 3D in the interactive atlas →