Arbol chiles are dried, bright red fresh chiles, related to the cayenne chile. Literally "tree" chiles, they are very hot. The slender chiles measure about 2 1/2 inches (6 cm) long.
To handle arbol chiles: Wear kitchen gloves to prevent any cuts or abrasions on hands from contacting the volatile oils. Wash your hands well with warm, soapy water after handling the chiles, and do not touch your eyes or other sensitive areas.
For other varieties of chile, see Anaheim, ancho, bird's-eye, cayenne, chilaca, chipotle, guajillo, habanero, jalapeno, mulato, pasilla, poblano, serrano, and yellow chiles, and dried red chiles and ground dried chile.