How to Identify Regal Angelfish

To identify Regal Angelfish (Pygoplites diacanthus), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

The body is predominantly yellow to orange, adorned with 7-9 prominent, narrow, vertical white or pale blue bands edged in dark blue or black. The posterior part of the dorsal fin and the caudal fin are bright yellow. The anal fin is typically blue with yellow stripes. The head often has a blue mask-like pattern around the eyes.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

terminal

Distinctive features

Seven to nine vertical white/blue bands edged in dark blue/black on an orange/yellow body., Bright yellow caudal fin., A prominent spine at the angle of the preoperculum, characteristic of angelfish (Pomacanthidae).

Dorsal fin

Single dorsal fin with 14 spines and 17-19 soft rays. The posterior soft-rayed portion is rounded.

Tail fin

Rounded caudal fin, bright yellow.

Pectoral fin

Pectoral fins are clear to yellowish.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are elongated and often have a blue leading edge.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Coloration and Pattern

   Look for the distinctive vertical white/blue bands edged in dark blue/black on an orange/yellow body. The bright yellow caudal fin is also a key identifier.

2. 2

   Preopercular Spine

   Like all angelfish, it possesses a strong spine at the lower margin of the preoperculum (gill cover), which can be used for defense.

3. 3

   Body Shape

   Its laterally compressed, disc-shaped body is typical of many angelfish species.

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