Fin's Fish Guide
The Halfmoon angelfish (Pomacanthus maculosus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacanthidae that grows up to 50 cm.
Description
The yellowbar angelfish is a large angelfish (Pomacanthidae) from the western Indian Ocean, the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. The species reaches about 50 cm and has a deep, compressed, blue body with a striking yellow, crescent-shaped bar on the flank; juveniles are dark blue with white stripes. It mainly inhabits silty reef areas and feeds as an omnivore on sponges, tunicates and algae. Like other angelfishes the species is a protogynous hermaphrodite, beginning as a female and later able to change into a male. The fish is eaten locally and is prized in the marine aquarium trade.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Halfmoon angelfish?
The Halfmoon angelfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly blue and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Adults with a yellow crescent band, juveniles dark blue with white stripes; protogynous hermaphrodite.
Where does the Halfmoon angelfish live?
The Halfmoon angelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Indian Ocean, the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf.
How big does the Halfmoon angelfish get?
The Halfmoon angelfish grows to a maximum of about 50 cm. On average the species is around 20 cm.
Is the Halfmoon angelfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Halfmoon angelfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Halfmoon angelfish edible?
Yes, the Halfmoon angelfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
Easily confused with
These species look like the Halfmoon 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 Pomacanthus
More from the family Pomacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Halfmoon angelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Halfmoon angelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.