Common name: Goldspotted angelfish

Scientific name: Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus Burgess, 1973
Goldflake Angelfish (Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus)Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus (Goldflake Angelfish)

General information

The Goldflake Angelfish, scientifically known as Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus, is a stunning marine fish that adds a touch of elegance to any saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its vibrant yellow spots that adorn its dark blue to black body, creating a striking contrast that is highly sought after by aquarists. The Goldflake Angelfish is a member of the Pomacanthidae family, which includes other popular angelfish species.

While they are relatively hardy, they are not as commonly found in the aquarium trade as some other angelfish due to their higher price and specific care requirements. They are best suited for experienced aquarists who can provide the stable environment these fish require.

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
20 cm (8″)
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 corals and clams.
Aggression
Semi aggresive Aggressive towards other angelfish.
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
    Goldspotted angelfish
    Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus Burgess, 1973

Care

Goldflake Angelfish require a large tank with plenty of swimming space and live rock for grazing and hiding. They can grow up to 10 inches in length, so a minimum tank size of 150 gallons is recommended. These angelfish thrive in a well-maintained system with stable water quality, including specific gravity, temperature, and pH levels.

Their diet should include a variety of foods such as marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other meaty foods, as well as high-quality angelfish preparations that contain sponges. It's important to feed them multiple times a day to maintain their health and coloration.

Reproduction

Breeding Goldflake Angelfish in captivity is quite challenging and rarely achieved. In the wild, they are pelagic spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic and go through several stages before settling down and transforming into juveniles.

Habitat

Goldflake Angelfish are found in the tropical waters of the Central and Western Pacific Ocean. They prefer reef environments and are often seen at depths ranging from 15 to 150 feet. In the wild, they are typically solitary or found in pairs and are known to be somewhat territorial.

Their natural habitat includes areas with abundant coral growth and rocky substrates where they can find their natural diet and seek shelter from predators.