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.
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.
Feeds on both sea-weed, algae and other small organisms.
Form pairs during breeding. Oviparous
Harmless to humans and can be found in commercial aquarium.
There appear to be no major threats to this species. Collection is limited and is not considered to be impacting the global population.