Source: Wikimedia Commons
Emperor Angelfish
AdvancedEmperor angelfish
Large angelfish with dramatically different juvenile and adult patterns. Blue and yellow stripes are stunning. Requires large tank.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
23〜26℃
Lifespan
10-20 years
Size
30-40cm
Diet
Pellets, frozen food, algae, sponge
About
The emperor angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator) is a large marine angelfish of the family Pomacanthidae found broadly across the Indian and Pacific Oceans, from the Red Sea to Hawaii and the Austral Islands. Its most captivating attribute is a dramatic ontogenetic color change: juveniles display swirling white and blue concentric patterns on a dark background, while adults develop brilliant alternating horizontal stripes of electric blue and golden yellow. Adults can reach 40 cm in length, making a tank of 500 litres or more an absolute requirement. Care is demanding — maintaining pristine water quality and providing ample swimming room are critical, and transitioning individuals onto prepared foods can require considerable patience. Universally regarded as the 'king of marine fish', it is among the most coveted species by aquarists worldwide.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
Indian and Pacific Oceans, from the Red Sea to Hawaii and the Austral Islands
Lifespan
10-20 years
Size
30-40cm
Temperature
23〜26℃
Diet
Pellets, frozen food, algae, sponge
Care Guide
Tank
500L+ large tank essential
Care Specifications
- pH
- 8.1–8.4
- Water Temp.
- 22–26℃
- Specific Gravity
- 1.02–1.025
- Salinity
- 33–35 ppt
- Min. Tank
- 833 L
Semi-aggressiveWith caution
Sources: LiveAquaria
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / 環境省 特定動物リスト / 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Emperor Angelfish Listings
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