How to Identify Cortez Angelfish

To identify Cortez Angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Adults are primarily dark brown to black with a broad, vertical yellow band just behind the pectoral fins, extending from the dorsal to the ventral side. A prominent, bright yellow crescent-shaped band is present on the caudal fin. The face often has iridescent blue markings around the eyes and mouth. Juveniles are dark blue to black with several narrow, vertical white or light blue bands across the body and caudal fin. As they mature, these bands fade and the adult coloration develops.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Broad yellow vertical band behind pectoral fins in adults., Bright yellow crescent on the caudal fin of adults., Dramatic color change from juvenile to adult., Strong preopercular spine.

Dorsal fin

Single, long dorsal fin with 11 spines and 23-24 soft rays. The soft-rayed portion is elongated posteriorly.

Tail fin

Rounded caudal fin with a distinctive yellow crescent band in adults.

Pectoral fin

Large, fan-like pectoral fins, typically yellowish.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are elongated and often have a bluish tint. Anal fin has 3 spines and 19-20 soft rays, mirroring the shape of the soft dorsal fin.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Adult Coloration

   Look for the broad yellow vertical band behind the pectoral fins and the bright yellow crescent on the caudal fin. The overall body is dark brown to black.

2. 2

   Juvenile Coloration

   Identify juveniles by their dark blue/black body with multiple narrow, vertical white or light blue bands. This is a key differentiator from adult Cortez Angelfish and other angelfish species.

3. 3

   Size

   Adults can reach up to 45 cm (18 inches), making them one of the larger angelfish species in their range.

4. 4

   Preopercular Spine

   Like all angelfish (family Pomacanthidae), they possess a strong spine on the lower margin of the preopercle (gill cover), which can be used for defense.

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