Common name: Flagfish

Scientific name: Apolemichthys trimaculatus (Cuvier, 1831)
Three-spot Angelfish. Apolemichthys trimaculatusThree spot angelfish, Apolemichthys trimaculatus, Komodo Indonesia
Yellow three spot angelfish Apolemichthys trimaculatusThreespot angelfish

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

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Angelfishes
    Pomacanthidae
  6. Genus
    Angelfish
    Apolemichthys
  7. Species
    Flagfish
    Apolemichthys trimaculatus (Cuvier, 1831)
  8. Synonyms
    Holacanthus 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).