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Angelfish - Pomacanthidae
With spectacular markings, iridescent colours and incredible patterns, Angelfish are some of the most beautiful fish found on coral reefs. The larger species are especially majestic, with rich colours and an air of elegance. They have a rounded and flattened body similar to their close relatives the Butterflyfish (Pomacentridae), but can usually be easily distinguished from their cousins by their larger size. Juveniles can be completely different from the adults and often have even more irredescent patterns, but are very shy & tricky to spot.
				With spectacular markings, iridescent colours and incredible patterns, Angelfish are some of the most beautiful fish found on coral reefs

Identification

Family Variety There are 87 species of Angelfish. All are generally a similar shape with compressed bodies and pointed heads. They can vary considerably in size, colouration and markings. Size Angelfish vary a lot in size from the smallest pygmy species, which is fully grown at only 10cm to the large Six Banded Angelfish (Pomacanthus sexstriatus) that grow to 50cm.

Behaviour

Juveniles are very secretive.

In most species all individuals are born female, changing to male only if circumstances allow - such as when the previous male dies. They are shy fish, favouring overhangs and other dark spots close to the protection of the reef when foraging or resting.

With competitor species, Angelfish are territorial and will defend their homes aggressively if threatened. Juveniles are particularly secretive, rarely venturing far from the safety of a crevice or hole.

Angelfish are present in all tropical oceans, but many seas have only one or two different species. The Indo-Pacific region has the largest variety of species.

Angelfish are found on rich coral reefs. Some species prefer shallower sheltered reefs, while others thrive on current-washed outer reefs.

Depending on the species Angelfish feed on anything from algae and coral polyps to plankton and sponges.

Some species form mating pairs for life. In others, male Angelfish control and defend a territory which includes from 2 to 5 females. During seasonal mating eggs and sperm are released in to the water column. Juveniles of the larger species are beautifully patterned and very shy, often preferring reefs deeper than 15m.

Angelfish fish are very wary, tending to dart undercover at the slightest sign of danger.

Angelfish are highly prized for aquariums due to their brilliant colours. This trade puts some pressure on numbers in the wild.

Angelfish and Butterflyfish are so similar they were once included in the same family.

Popular Species

Emperor Angelfish
Blue-ringed Angelfish
Blue-faced Angelfish
Semi-circle Anglefish

Emperor Angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator)
One of the larger species, getting up to 40cm long. Easily recognised by its spectacular and distinct pattern. Juveniles of this species also have dazzling and unique markings.

Blue-ringed Angelfish (Pomacanhtus annularis)
Another of the larger spices, the blue markings on this stunning fish are iridescent and can reflect sunlight. Juveniles take their adult form at a smaller size than Emperor Angelfish and are very shy, making it unjusual to encounter one on a dive.

Blue-faced Angelfish (Pomacanthus xanthometopon)
Beautiful and easily recognised by distinctive yellow eye mask and blue face. Usually solitary and feeds on sponges, selecting coral rich areas to live and feed.

Semi-circle Angelfish (Pomacanthus semicirculatus)
A large Angelfish that can grow up to 35cm Adults have striking yellow lips and a greenish body, with a faded pale band across the middle. Juveniles have a striped semi-circular pattern which fades to its adult colouration at about 8cm.

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Angelfish - Pomacanthidae