Common name: Yellowtail tubelip

General information

The Indian Yellowtail Angelfish, scientifically known as Diproctacanthus xanthurus, is a vibrant marine species admired for its striking coloration and graceful swimming behavior. This species is part of the family Pomacanthidae and is known for its deep blue body contrasted by a vivid yellow tail, which gives it its common name. The Indian Yellowtail Angelfish is a relatively small angelfish, reaching up to 15 centimeters (6 inches) in length, making it a suitable candidate for larger home aquariums.

Care

In the aquarium, Diproctacanthus xanthurus requires a well-established system with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are omnivorous and should be offered a varied diet including marine algae, mysis shrimp, and high-quality angelfish preparations containing sponges. It's important to note that this species may nip at stony and soft corals, as well as clams, which should be considered when planning a reef tank.

Reproduction

Breeding the Indian Yellowtail Angelfish in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved. In the wild, they are known to form harems consisting of one male and several females. Spawning occurs with a dramatic rise to the surface, where eggs are released and fertilized.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Indian Yellowtail Angelfish is the Indo-West Pacific region, including the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the Andaman Sea. They are typically found in coral-rich areas and clear lagoons at depths ranging from 2 to 25 meters (6 to 82 feet).