Common name: Arabian angelfish

Scientific name: Pomacanthus asfur (Forsskål, 1775)
Pomacanthus asfur or Arabian Angelfish in aquarium close-up
Arabian Angelfish (Pomacanthus asfur).Pomacanthus asfur. Tropical fish Arab angel closeup

General information

The Asfur Angelfish, scientifically known as Pomacanthus asfur, is a strikingly beautiful marine fish that is highly sought after by aquarists for its deep blue body and contrasting yellow tail and pectoral fins. The species is named after its natural habitat in the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea. It is also known for its semi-aggressive temperament and can grow quite large, making it suitable for more experienced hobbyists with larger aquariums.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
750 liter (200 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
40 cm (1′4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Needs large tank & hiding spots
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet incl. veggies & meaty foods
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
No May nip at clam mantles & corals
Aggression
Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially when mature
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
    Pomacanthus
  7. Species
    Arabian angelfish
    Pomacanthus asfur (Forsskål, 1775)
  8. Synonyms
    Arusetta asfur (Forsskål, 1775)
    Chaetodon asfur Forsskål, 1775
    Chaetodon asfur amarus Bloch & Schneider, 1801
    Holacanthus coeruleus Cuvier in Cuvier & Valenciennes, 1831

Care

Asfur Angelfish require a spacious tank of at least 220 gallons to accommodate their size and swimming needs. They thrive in a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. This species is known to nip at stony and soft corals, as well as clams, so it is best kept in a fish-only or fish-only-with-live-rock (FOWLR) setup. A varied diet of marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other high-quality angelfish preparations will help maintain their vibrant colors and overall health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Asfur Angelfish form monogamous pairs during breeding. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic and will settle to the reef after several weeks. Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging, requiring a large, mature system and expert care.

Habitat

The Asfur Angelfish is native to the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea, where it is typically found in coral-rich areas and lagoons at depths ranging from 2 to 30 meters. They prefer complex reef structures with plenty of overhangs and caves for shelter.