Yellowhead butterflyfish


Chaetodon xanthocephalus, known commonly as the Yellowhead butterflyfish, is a species of marine fish in the family Chaetodontidae.

Distribution

The Yellowhead butterflyfish is widespread throughout the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean.

Description

The Yellowhead butterflyfish is a small size fish and can reach a maximum size of 20 cm length. Overall color is white to pale grey with a series of five to six darker lines shaped in broad V's across the body. The head is covered by a broad yellow band and the dorsal and anal fins are mostly yellow.

Habitat

The Yellowhead butterflyfish is found at depths between 1 and 30m. Usually solitary, but may form loose shoals of 5-6 individuals and usually found around isolated coral heads. Territorial and aggressive to other chaetodonts; omnivorous.