Fin's Fish Guide
The Angelfish (Holacanthus ciliaris) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacanthidae that grows up to 45 cm.
Description
The queen angelfish is a brightly coloured reef fish of the family Pomacanthidae from the western Atlantic. The species has a deep, laterally compressed blue body with yellow accents and a conspicuous blue-ringed spot on the forehead reminiscent of a crown. It reaches about 45 cm and lives singly or in pairs on coral reefs, where it feeds almost exclusively on sponges. Young individuals pick parasites from other fishes. The fish is occasionally eaten, but larger individuals can carry ciguatera toxin.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Angelfish?
The Angelfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly multicoloured and shows a plain pattern. Blue-rimmed 'crown blotch' on the forehead; feeds almost exclusively on sponges; juveniles clean other fishes. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Angelfish live?
The Angelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic, from Florida and the Bahamas to Brazil.
How big does the Angelfish get?
The Angelfish grows to a maximum of about 45 cm. On average the species is around 30 cm.
Is the Angelfish dangerous to humans?
The Angelfish is venomous — handle spines with care and seek medical help after a sting if needed. Harmless to handle. In some areas there are reports of ciguatera poisoning after eating it, especially larger individuals: in case of symptoms such as tingling, nausea, vomiting or a reversed hot-cold sensation, seek medical help and keep any leftover material.
Is the Angelfish edible?
The Angelfish is rarely eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Angelfish and live in the same waters.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Holacanthus
More from the family Pomacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Angelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Angelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.