Emperor angelfish

Pomacanthus imperator

Family : Pomacanthidae

FishMarineangelfish

Large royal angelfish with bright colors: blue and yellow with stripes. Highly prized but requires a large aquarium.

Emperor angelfish — photo 1 sur 4 — nadia & massimo · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.01 / 4

Popularity

Advanced marine fish

large tank + demanding parameters

Availability

Specialty only

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Biotope

Indo-Pacific+1

Récifs coralliens de l'océan Indien et Pacifique tropical.

Description

The emperor angelfish grows up to 40 cm. Juveniles are dark blue with white and blue stripes. Adults have a bright blue body with yellow stripes and a blue head. The dorsal fin is yellow. It is a territorial and aggressive fish towards other angelfish. It is sensitive to diseases. It reproduces by spawning pelagic eggs.

Habitat

Region :

The emperor angelfish inhabits deep coral reefs, often in areas with strong current. Juveniles hide in crevices and overhangs. Adults are solitary and territorial. They feed on sponges, algae, and tunicates.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature24–28 °C

pH8.1–8.4

GH8–12 °dGH

KH8–12 °dKH

Salinity1.02–1.025 ‰

NO₃

≤ 20 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 0.1 mg/L

Calcium

≥ 400 ppm

Magnesium

≥ 1200 ppm

Care

Difficulty

4/5

Diet

Omnivore

Min. tank

600 L

Min. group

Adult size

40 cm

Lifespan

15 years

Temperament

Aggressive

Propagation

Ovipare, ponte pélagique. Les œufs sont libérés dans la colonne d'eau. Éclosion après 24-36 heures.

Care notes

Temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025. Minimum tank size 600 liters. Omnivorous: sponges, algae, mysis, brine shrimp. Compatible with robust fish. Avoid other angelfish and shy fish. Requires a varied diet. Captive breeding rare.

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