Blueface Angel - Adult
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Blueface Angelfish (Pomacanthus xanthometopon)
Overview
The Blueface Angelfish (Pomacanthus xanthometopon), also known as the Yellowface Angelfish or Yellowmask Angelfish, is one of the most iconic and visually impressive members of the Pomacanthus genus. Characterized by its vivid sapphire-blue face accented with a bright yellow mask, a reticulated blue-and-yellow body pattern, and electric-blue caudal fin, this species is a centerpiece fish that commands attention in any large marine aquarium.
Native to the Indo-West Pacific, the Blueface Angelfish inhabits coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes at depths of 10–40 m (33–130 ft). Adults are often solitary or occur in pairs, spending their time grazing on sponges and tunicates among coral formations.
This species is hardy once acclimated but requires ample swimming space, stable water conditions, and a varied, sponge-enriched diet. Due to its size, intelligence, and territorial nature, it is best suited for experienced marine aquarists.
Aquarium Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 600 litres (160 US gallons) or larger — ideally 750 L+ for adult specimens
Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: < 20 ppm (preferably < 10 ppm)
Aquascape: Provide extensive live rock for grazing, caves, and swim-throughs while maintaining open spaces for free movement. The Blueface Angelfish appreciates shaded areas and complex reef structures that replicate natural coral heads.
A mature, biologically stable marine system with high oxygenation and efficient protein skimming is essential. Avoid abrupt fluctuations in temperature or chemistry. Good water flow and regular maintenance are key to long-term success.
Diet and Feeding
The Blueface Angelfish is an omnivorous grazer that feeds heavily on sponges, tunicates, and algae in the wild. In captivity, nutritional balance is achieved through a varied diet rich in sponge material and marine vegetation.
Recommended Foods:
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Frozen angelfish preparations containing sponge and marine algae
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Finely chopped seafood: clam, scallop, shrimp, squid, and mussel
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Enriched mysis shrimp and brine shrimp
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Spirulina-based pellets and marine algae flakes
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Sheets of dried seaweed (nori) offered daily
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Occasional blanched marine greens (spinach, sea lettuce)
Feed two to three times daily, in moderate portions. A varied diet and natural grazing opportunities on live rock help maintain robust coloration, immune health, and longevity.
Temperament and Compatibility
Adult Blueface Angelfish are semi-aggressive, displaying assertive territorial behavior, particularly toward other large angelfish or similarly shaped species. Despite this, they coexist well with a variety of robust tankmates when provided sufficient space and structure.
Suitable Tankmates:
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Large, peaceful to semi-aggressive species such as tangs, triggerfish (non-predatory species), butterflyfish, and larger wrasses
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Mid-sized community fish that occupy different areas of the tank
Avoid:
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Other Pomacanthus or Holacanthus species unless the system exceeds 1,000 L (260+ gallons)
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Very small, timid species that may be harassed
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Predatory fish or fin-nippers
The Blueface Angelfish is best introduced last in the stocking order to minimize territorial disputes. It quickly establishes dominance within its environment.
Reef Compatibility
⚠️ Reef Safe with Caution
The Blueface Angelfish is known to nip at:
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Large-polyp stony (LPS) corals
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Soft corals and zoanthids
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Clam mantles and some sessile invertebrates
While individuals vary in coral tolerance, this species is best housed in a fish-only with live rock (FOWLR) system, or in a carefully managed reef setup with robust SPS corals and frequent observation.
Additional Information
Maximum Size: Up to 38 cm (15 inches)
Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity with excellent care
Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Natural Behavior: Solitary or paired; intelligent, alert, and territorial; often glides gracefully through rockwork while grazing
Origin: Indo-West Pacific — from the Maldives and Indonesia to Micronesia, northern Australia, and the Great Barrier Reef
Summary
The Blueface Angelfish (Pomacanthus xanthometopon) is a regal and commanding species that combines beauty, intelligence, and personality. Although it demands ample space, impeccable water quality, and a specialized diet, it rewards dedicated aquarists with long-term health, vivid coloration, and charismatic presence.
In a large, well-managed marine aquarium, the Blueface Angelfish stands as a magnificent centerpiece—embodying both the grace and grandeur of the Indo-Pacific reefs from which it hails.
| SKU | Blueface Angel - Adult |
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