Blue Face Angelfish

The Blueface Angelfish (Pomacanthus xanthometopon), also known as the Yellowface Angelfish, is a vibrant marine species celebrated for its striking appearance and dynamic presence in home aquariums. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral-rich areas, this species is a favorite among experienced aquarists due to its unique coloration and engaging behavior.

(REEF SAFE WITH CAUTION / ADVANCED)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Blueface Angelfish, Yellowface Angelfish
• Scientific Name: Pomacanthus xanthometopon
• Family: Pomacanthidae
• Origin/Habitat: Inhabits coral-rich areas of channels, lagoons, and outer reef slopes, often near caves, within the Indo-Pacific region.
• Maximum Size: Can grow up to 15 inches (38 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live up to 10 years or more in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Advanced; best suited for experienced aquarists due to specific care requirements and size.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Adults display a vibrant yellow face with blue markings around the eyes and gill covers, a body adorned with blue scales edged in yellow, and a yellow tail. Juveniles exhibit a different coloration, featuring blue-black bodies with white and blue bars.
• Body Shape & Structure: Oval-shaped, laterally compressed body with strong dorsal and anal fins; equipped with a small mouth suited for grazing on sponges and other encrusting organisms.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: A spacious aquarium of at least 220 gallons (832 liters) is recommended to accommodate their size and swimming needs.
  
  
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 72°F and 82°F (22°C to 28°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.023 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide ample live rock formations to create caves and hiding spots, mimicking their natural reef environment; ensure open swimming areas are available.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Omnivorous, with a preference for sponges and tunicates in the wild.
• Preferred Foods: In captivity, their diet should include marine algae, high-quality angelfish preparations, mysis or frozen shrimp, and other meaty items such as clams and brine shrimp.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1 to 3 times daily, adjusting frequency as they mature.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; may exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards other angelfish or similar-looking species.
• Social Behavior: Best kept singly due to potential aggression towards conspecifics; can coexist with other non-aggressive species if introduced properly.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with a variety of peaceful and semi-aggressive species; caution is advised with small invertebrates, as they may be preyed upon.
• Activity Level: Active swimmer, often seen exploring the tank; requires ample space for movement.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Requires diligent care and stable water parameters; not recommended for novice aquarists.
• Special Requirements: Regular water changes and monitoring are essential to maintain water quality; a varied diet is crucial for health and vibrant coloration.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is rare and not well-documented.
• Additional Notes: May produce grunting sounds, especially when distressed or during feeding.