Fin's Fish Guide
The Angel fish (Pomacanthus imperator) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacanthidae that grows up to 40 cm.
Indo-Pacific; coral-rich lagoon and seaward reefs with holes and ledges.
Description
The emperor angelfish is a large, beautifully marked angelfish of the family Pomacanthidae from the Indo-Pacific. The species grows to about 40 cm; adults have a blue body with numerous yellow horizontal stripes and a blue-black eye mask, while juveniles are deep blue with concentric white and light-blue rings - a pattern so different that juvenile and adult were long regarded as separate species. Juveniles shelter under ledges and in holes of outer lagoons. As an omnivore it feeds mainly on sponges and tunicates. The emperor angelfish is a popular reef dweller and is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Angel fish?
The Angel fish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a horizontal stripes pattern. Adults blue with yellow stripes, juveniles deep blue with concentric white rings; sponge eater.
Where does the Angel fish live?
The Angel fish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Indo-Pacific; coral-rich lagoon and seaward reefs with holes and ledges.
How big does the Angel fish get?
The Angel fish grows to a maximum of about 40 cm.
Is the Angel fish dangerous to humans?
No, the Angel fish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Angel fish edible?
The Angel fish is not usually eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Angel fish and live in the same waters.
Want the complete picture on the Angel fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Angel fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pomacanthus
More from the family Pomacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Angel fish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Angel fish is one of 12,519 species in the app.