Latin name

Pomacanthus navarchus

Other name

Majestic angelfish

Identification

The body of this fish is flattened on the sides. There is a long spine on the gill cover that is used for defense. 

Features of fish fins

Dorsal spines (total): 13-14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17-18; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 18.

Fish colouring

Adult fish have three main color areas: the anterior area in front of the eyes and the front of the body is lemon yellow; the middle area is funnel-shaped and dark blue; and the posterior area is reticulated, bright yellow and blue. The body parts are separated by pale blue stripes with a black border. The mouth and lips are blue, as are the rays of the pectoral and anal fins, while the dorsal and caudal fins are yellow with a pale blue border. Juveniles are dark blue with slightly curved white lateral stripes. The transition from juvenile to adult coloration is rather abrupt, with a slight intermediate coloration.

Distribution

Widespread in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, their range extends from Indonesia and the Philippines to northern and eastern Australia and Micronesia. 

Habitat

Tropical marine species. These fish can be found down to 40 m (130 ft) on the outer slopes of reefs, channels and lagoons in coral-rich habitats.

Size

The total length of these fish reaches 28 cm. Life expectancy is up to 25 years.

Behavior

Blue-girdled angelfish are territorial and are usually found alone, but sometimes in pairs or small groups. They do not migrate.

Food and feeding habits

They inhabit the benthic zone and feed on sponges, algae, crustaceans, zooplankton and small invertebrates. 

Reproduction

They are primordial hermaphrodites, beginning adulthood as females and later becoming males.

Fishing

Subsistence fishing. Highly valued aquarium export.

Relationship with a person

Harmless.