Masked Butterflyfish
Chaetodon semilarvatus
The Masked Butterflyfish is a reef-dwelling butterflyfish from the Red Sea and nearby western Indian Ocean, noted for its bright yellow body and dark mask. It lives in pairs or small groups and feeds mainly on coral polyps and small benthic invertebrates.
Identification points
- Bright yellow body with a bold black vertical mask through the eye
- Elongated dorsal and anal fins typical of butterflyfishes
- Rounded body with a small mouth adapted for picking coral polyps
Habitat
Shallow coral reefs, reef flats, lagoons, and outer reef slopes in clear tropical marine waters, usually close to live coral cover and branching coral heads.
Bait notes
Not a common angling target. If collected for aquarium or scientific purposes, small live or frozen marine foods such as mysis, brine shrimp, and finely chopped seafood are more appropriate than standard fishing baits.
Behavior
Diurnal and strongly associated with coral-rich structure; usually seen in pairs, picking at coral polyps and small invertebrates. It is not a typical sportfish and is best observed rather than targeted.
Caution
Coral reef habitat is fragile and may be protected; collection can be restricted by local reef and aquarium regulations. Handle carefully to avoid injury to the fish and damage to coral; not known as a food species.
Fishing notes
This species is reef-associated and delicate; avoid hook-and-line targeting. Use careful, minimal-handling collection methods only where legal and permitted, and do not disturb coral habitat.