How to Identify Yellowface Angelfish

To identify Yellowface Angelfish (Centropyge flavifrons), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is predominantly a deep, iridescent blue, often appearing almost black in certain lighting. The head, snout, and anterior portion of the dorsal fin are a vivid yellow. The pectoral fins are typically clear to yellowish, while the pelvic and anal fins are blue with yellow margins. The caudal fin is blue.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Bright yellow face and anterior dorsal fin contrasting with a deep blue body., Small, oval-shaped body typical of dwarf angelfish.

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 14 spines and 16-17 soft rays. The anterior spiny portion is yellow, transitioning to blue posteriorly.

Tail fin

Rounded caudal fin, deep blue in color.

Pectoral fin

Small, clear to yellowish pectoral fins.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic and anal fins are blue with distinct yellow margins.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration

   The most distinguishing feature is the bright yellow face and anterior dorsal fin against the deep blue body. No other Centropyge species shares this exact pattern.

2. 2

   Size

   Reaches a maximum size of about 7-8 cm (3 inches), making it one of the smaller dwarf angelfish.

3. 3

   Habitat

   Look for it in coral-rich areas of outer reef slopes in the Western Pacific.

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