Butterflyfishes
Red Sea bannerfish (Heniochus intermedius)
The Red Sea bannerfish (Heniochus intermedius) belongs to the family Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes) and is endemic to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. usually seen in pairs. It reaches about 20 cm and is found at 3–50 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Heniochus intermedius |
|---|---|
| Authority | Steindachner, 1893 |
| Family | Butterflyfishes (Chaetodontidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce bandiera del Mar Rosso |
| Common name (EN) | Red Sea bannerfish |
| Maximum size | 20 cm |
| Depth | 3–50 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.
- Gulf of Aqaba
- Southern Egypt
- Saudi Arabian coast
- Gulf of Aden
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Red Sea bannerfish belong to?
- The Red Sea bannerfish (Heniochus intermedius) belongs to the family Chaetodontidae (butterflyfishes).
- Is the Red Sea bannerfish dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Red Sea bannerfish endemic to the Red Sea?
- Yes — it lives only in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
- How big does the Red Sea bannerfish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 20 cm.
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