Known by several names, including Red-Stripe, Pinnate, Shaded, Dusky, Red-Faced, Long-Finned or Red-Finned Batfish, the Pinnatus can reach up to 20 inches in length. Juveniles have a striking red border on their body and fins; however, this generally fades with adulthood. The body has alternating vertical bands of brown and a silver-tan.

The Pinnatus Batfish is very difficult to maintain in an aquarium, often refusing to eat. The Pinnatus must be provided with a deep, 200 gallon tank and plenty of unobstructed room to swim. Unlike other batfish, the Pinnatus is very shy and needs numerous hiding places. Not a good reef dweller, it will eat many types of sessile invertebrates including corals and anemones. As with all Batfish, the Pinnatus is susceptible to ich.

A varied diet of meaty foods such as shrimp, scallops, vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, and frozen herbivore preparations should be provided. The Pinnatus should be fed three times a day.