Common name: Flagfish
General information
The Flagfin Angelfish, scientifically known as Apolemichthys trimaculatus, is a striking marine fish that graces many saltwater aquariums. It is easily recognized by its deep blue to purple body, bold yellow tail, and the distinctive three white spots for which it is named. This species is part of the Pomacanthidae family, which includes other popular angelfish.
Juveniles exhibit a different coloration, with a more pronounced yellow hue and smaller spots. As they mature, their color deepens and the spots become more prominent. This color change is a fascinating aspect of their development.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. veggies & meaty foods.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at stony coral polyps.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially to conspecifics.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusAngelfishApolemichthys
- SpeciesFlagfishApolemichthys trimaculatus (Cuvier, 1831)
- SynonymsHolacanthus trimaculatus Cuvier, 1831
Care
Flagfin Angelfish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They can grow up to 25 centimeters (10 inches) in length, so a larger tank is necessary to accommodate their size and swimming behavior. They are generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially towards other angelfish.
Their diet should include a variety of foods such as marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other meaty foods, along with high-quality angelfish preparations that contain sponges.
Reproduction
In the wild, Flagfin Angelfish are known to form harems consisting of one male and several females. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and not commonly achieved by hobbyists.
Habitat
Flagfin Angelfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to Japan, and south to Australia. They prefer coral-rich areas and clear lagoons, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 60 meters (16 to 197 feet).