Angelfish
Angelfish (Family: Pomacanthidae)
Scientific Classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Actinopterygii
- Order: Perciformes
- Family: Pomacanthidae
Types of Angelfish:
There are about 90 species of marine angelfish, mainly in tropical coral reefs. Some well-known species include:
- Emperor Angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator)
- Queen Angelfish (Holacanthus ciliaris)
- French Angelfish (Pomacanthus paru)
- Regal Angelfish (Pygoplites diacanthus)
- Flame Angelfish (Centropyge loricula) – a dwarf angelfish
- Blueface Angelfish (Pomacanthus xanthometopon)
Habitat:
- Found in tropical and subtropical waters.
- Primarily inhabit coral reefs, rocky coastlines, and lagoons.
- Typically swim at depths of 1–50 meters, though some species go deeper.
- Prefer areas with plentiful hiding spots, such as coral crevices and overhangs.
Diet:
- Omnivorous, feeding on sponges, algae, tunicates, and small invertebrates.
- Some species specialize in feeding on coral polyps.
- Juvenile angelfish often act as cleaners, removing parasites from larger fish.
Lifespan:
- Typically 10–15 years in the wild.
- Larger species, such as the Emperor Angelfish, can live over 20 years in captivity.
Sexual Differences (Dimorphism & Mating):
- Some species display sexual dimorphism, with males being more colorful or larger.
- Many angelfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start as females and can change to males.
- Usually form monogamous pairs or harems, where one dominant male controls several females.
How to Spot an Angelfish:
- Bright, vibrant colors with striking patterns.
- Laterally compressed, disk-shaped bodies for easy maneuvering.
- Elongated dorsal and anal fins, giving them an elegant, flowing appearance.
- Distinctive facial markings, such as a mask-like band around the eyes in some species.
- Juveniles often have different coloration from adults, such as the dramatic blue-and-white rings of the juvenile Emperor Angelfish.
Countries Where Angelfish Are Found:
- Australia (Great Barrier Reef, Coral Sea)
- Indonesia (Raja Ampat, Bali, Komodo)
- Philippines (Tubbataha, Palawan, Cebu)
- Hawaii & Pacific Islands
- Japan (Okinawa, Izu Peninsula)
- Maldives & Indian Ocean reefs
- Red Sea (Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Sudan)
- Madagascar, Mozambique, South Africa
- Caribbean (Belize, Bahamas, Florida Keys, Mexico)