Reeflings

Common name: Blueface angelfish

Scientific name: Pomacanthus xanthometopon (Bleeker, 1853)
Yellow-faced angelfish (Pomacanthus xanthometopon)Blueface Angelfish, pomacanthus xanthometopon, Adult near Coral , Fish from the Indian Ocean
Blue faced angelfish Pomacanthus xanthometopon in a coral reef.Pomacanthus xanthometopon is a marine ray-finned fish, a marine angelfish belonging to the family Pomacanthidae found in shallow parts of the Indo-Pacific. It is commonly known as the blueface angelfi

General information

The Blueface Angelfish, scientifically known as Pomacanthus xanthometopon, is a stunning marine fish that adds a splash of color and grace to any large saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its striking blue face, which is adorned with bright yellow and blue stripes, while the body is covered with a beautiful pattern of yellow and blue horizontal stripes.

Juveniles have a different coloration, featuring a dark blue body with electric blue and white rings; they undergo a dramatic transformation as they mature. The Blueface Angelfish is often confused with the closely related Pomacanthus imperator, but can be distinguished by its unique facial pattern.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
750 liter (200 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Average size
38 cm (1′3″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Needs large tank and varied diet
Diet
Omnivore Enjoys mysis, spirulina, and sponge
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
No May nip at clam mantles and 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
    Blueface angelfish
    Pomacanthus xanthometopon (Bleeker, 1853)
  8. Synonyms
    Euxiphipops xanthometopon (Bleeker, 1853)
    Holacanthus xanthometopon Bleeker, 1853

Care

Blueface Angelfish require a spacious tank with plenty of room to swim and a variety of hiding places among live rock. They are not reef safe, as they have a tendency to nip at stony and soft corals, clam mantles, and sessile invertebrates. A diet rich in marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other high-quality angelfish preparations is essential for their health and coloration.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blueface Angelfish form harems consisting of one male and several females. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and rarely successful.

Habitat

Pomacanthus xanthometopon is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Maldives to the Philippines, and north to southern Japan. They inhabit coral-rich areas and clear lagoons, usually at depths ranging from 5 to 25 meters.

Their natural habitat includes a variety of reef structures, which they use for shelter and feeding. In the aquarium, replicating this environment with ample live rock and open swimming space is beneficial for their well-being.