Common name: Goldspotted 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
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusAngelfishApolemichthys
- SpeciesGoldspotted angelfishApolemichthys 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.