Fin's Fish Guide
The Red Sea angelfish (Apolemichthys xanthotis) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacanthidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The Red Sea angelfish is a marine angelfish from the western Indian Ocean, mainly in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The species grows to about 20 cm and has a grey-white body with a black head cap, a yellow patch behind the eye and yellow tints on the fins and tail. On the gill cover it bears a strong spine. As a reef-dweller it grazes sponges, tunicates and algae from the reef. The fish is harmless to humans and appears in the reef aquarium. The IUCN assesses the species as Least Concern (LC).
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Red Sea angelfish?
The Red Sea angelfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly yellow-gold and shows a plain pattern. Black head cap and a small yellow ear spot with an opercular spine; reef-grazing angelfish
Where does the Red Sea angelfish live?
The Red Sea angelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Indian Ocean
How big does the Red Sea angelfish get?
The Red Sea angelfish grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Red Sea angelfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Red Sea angelfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Red Sea angelfish edible?
The Red Sea angelfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Apolemichthys
More from the family Pomacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Red Sea angelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Red Sea angelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.