Common name: Yellowtail angelfish

Scientific name: Chaetodontoplus personifer (McCulloch, 1914)

General information

The Blue-faced Angelfish, scientifically known as Chaetodontoplus personifer, is a stunning marine fish that adds a splash of color and personality to any saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its striking blue face, which contrasts beautifully with its yellow to silver body. Mature individuals also develop a distinctive hump on their forehead, adding to their unique appearance.

Native to the waters of Western Australia, the Blue-faced Angelfish is a prized specimen among aquarists due to its vivid coloration and regal presence. It's important to note that this species can grow quite large, reaching up to 38 centimeters (15 inches) in length, and therefore requires a spacious tank to thrive.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
400 liter (110 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
28 cm (11″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Needs varied diet & hiding places.
Diet
Omnivore Mysis, brine shrimp, and algae.
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
Reefsafe
No May nip at LPS/soft corals.
Aggression
Semi aggresive Can be aggressive to tank mates.
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
    Chaetodontoplus
  7. Species
    Yellowtail angelfish
    Chaetodontoplus personifer (McCulloch, 1914)
  8. Synonyms
    Holacanthus personifer McCulloch, 1914

Care

Caring for the Blue-faced Angelfish requires attention to detail, as they are sensitive to water quality and need a varied diet. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. A diet rich in marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other high-quality angelfish preparations will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health.

Due to their size and territorial nature, they are best suited for larger aquariums where they can establish their own territory. It's also advisable to introduce them last into the aquarium to minimize aggression towards other tank mates.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blue-faced Angelfish form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. While breeding them in captivity is challenging, it is not impossible for experienced aquarists with the right setup and conditions.

Habitat

The Blue-faced Angelfish is found in the coral reefs and rocky outcrops of Western Australia, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 40 meters. They prefer areas with abundant coral growth and clear waters where they can forage for sponges, tunicates, and algae.