Royal Angelfish (Pygoplites diacanthus)

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Royal Angelfish

Pygoplites diacanthus3453.jpg
Royal Angelfish

Pygoplites diacanthus

473 Litres (125 US G.)

20-25 cm (7.9-9.8")

pH

8.1 - 8.4

22.2-25.6°C (72 -78 °F)

8-12 °d

1:1 M:F

Omnivore
Pellet Foods
Flake Foods
Live Foods
Other (See article)

5-12 years

Family

Pomacanthidae





Additional names

Royal Angelfish, Regal Angelfish

Additional scientific names

Chaetodon diacanthus, Holacanthus diacanthus


Origin

Indo-Pacific; widespread in tropical water, with minor variations depending on wether it's from the Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean, or the Red Sea.

Sexing

Males are larger; like other angelfishes, they are protogynous hermaphrodites.

Tank compatibility

A relatively peaceful fish suitable for peaceful communities and is considered reef safe, although may nip at stony corals, zoanthids and some clams. Can be kept in groups in a very large system.

Diet

The Regal Angel prefers a varied diet of spirulina and marine algae as well as mysid shrimp and Angel Formula and other Sponge-containing foods, as well as other prepared meaty foods.

Feeding regime

Feed two to three times a day.

Environment Specifics

Prefers a spacious tank with plenty of live rock and hiding places. Needs an SG of 1.020 - 1.023.

Behaviour

Generally peaceful towards tank mates. More aggressive species may harass them; for this reason, It is advisable to introduce them before more aggressive species, such as Tangs or other Angelfish.

Identification

This fish has a vivid oval-shaped greenish-yellow, with some locales having yellower bodied specimens, body and fins. The anal, and dorsal fins are edged with vivid blue, and the flanks, and fins are striped with vertical silvery-blue bars.

Notes

  • This species is notorious for fragility. Although these fish may eagerly eat, they usually die soon after from nutritional deficiencies or exposure to Cyanide. For the greatest chance of survival, choose specimens that are plump, and feed a wide variety of foods containing sponges.

Pictures

Videos

Aquarium species profile: Aquarium keeping advice: Aquarium care overview:

External links