Orange Regal Angelfish

(Pygoplites diacanthus)

Pygoplites Angelfish should be added to well established aquariums with plenty of room to swim. Plenty of rock work, caves, cracks and crevices should be provided for grazing and hiding. Pygoplites angels may pick at sponge, tunicates, benthic organisms or sessile invertebrates. A diet of meaty and algae based foods along with Angel preperations which include sponge should be provided. Care will need to be taken when handling Angelfish as they have cheekspines, avoid using nets when handling. Pygoplites Angelfish are hermaphroditic meaning they may have both sex organs at some point in their lives. Juvenile Pygoplites Angelfish exhibit color or pattern differences. Pygoplites Angelfish are shy and reclusive and should be one of the first fish added to the aquarium.

The Regal Angelfish is also known as the Peacock, Royal or Empress Angelfish. This commonly seen and richly colored Angelfish has an overall yellow or orange coloration depending on the region they are from. Multiple black edged white stripes run vertically on the body. Adults will have a much brighter yellow tail but will lack the black eye spot seen in juveniles. Regal Angelfish can grow to 10".

We recommend a minimum aquarium size of 125 gallons or larger for this species.

Water conditions: Salinity 1.020 - 1.025, Temp (F) 72 - 78, pH 8.1 - 8.4, Alkalinity 8 - 12 dKH

  • Care: CareDifficultDifficult
  • Behavior: BehaviorSocialSocial
  • Diet: DietHerbivoreHerbivore DietFrozen FoodFrozen Food DietLive FoodLive Food
  • Habitat: HabitatReefReef
  • Light: LightMediumMedium