How to Identify Scribbled Angelfish

To identify Scribbled Angelfish (Chaetodontoplus duboulayi), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adult males typically have a dark blue to black body with numerous bright blue, irregular, scribbled lines and spots, particularly on the head and anterior body. The dorsal and anal fins are often edged in bright blue. The caudal fin is bright yellow. Females and juveniles exhibit a more subdued pattern, often with a yellowish-brown body and fewer, less distinct blue markings, and a yellow caudal fin. As they mature, females develop more prominent blue scribbling, though generally less extensive than males. A distinct black bar often runs through the eye in both sexes, though it can be less pronounced in mature males.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Intricate blue scribbled patterns on a dark body (more pronounced in males), Bright yellow caudal fin, Sexual dimorphism in coloration and patterning, Prominent black bar through the eye

Dorsal fin

Single, continuous dorsal fin with 13 spines and 17-18 soft rays. The soft-rayed portion is rounded.

Tail fin

Rounded to slightly truncate caudal fin, typically bright yellow.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins, translucent to yellowish.

Distinctive fins

Anal fin with 3 spines and 17-18 soft rays, often edged in blue, mirroring the dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Pattern

   Look for the characteristic 'scribbled' blue lines and spots on a dark body, especially on the head and anterior body. The intensity and extent of these markings are key to identification and sex determination.

2. 2

   Caudal Fin Color

   The bright yellow caudal fin is a consistent and prominent identifying feature across all life stages and sexes.

3. 3

   Sexual Dimorphism

   Mature males exhibit much more extensive and vibrant blue scribbling, often covering most of the body, whereas females have more subdued patterns and a more yellowish-brown base color.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults can reach up to 28 cm (11 inches), making them a relatively large angelfish species.

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