Chrysurus Angelfish

The Chrysurus Angelfish, also known as the Ear-Spot Angelfish, is a bold and distinctive member of the Pomacanthus genus hailing from the western Indian Ocean. Adults display a dark brown to olive-green body covered in a pattern of pale spots and dashes, with a prominent dark ear spot behind the gill plate rimmed in blue. The caudal fin is golden-yellow, giving rise to the name chrysurus, meaning golden tail. While not as flamboyantly colorful as some of its Pomacanthus cousins, the Chrysurus Angelfish possesses a handsome, understated elegance.

In the wild, this species is found along coral reefs and rocky coastlines of East Africa, from Kenya south to Mozambique, and around the islands of Madagascar and Mauritius. It inhabits reef slopes and lagoons at moderate depths, feeding on sponges, tunicates, and algae. The Chrysurus Angelfish is less commonly imported than many other large angels, which gives it a certain appeal among collectors seeking something different.

Reaching approximately 13 inches in captivity, this species requires a minimum tank size of 150 gallons. It is not reef-safe, as it will pick at corals and sessile invertebrates. The Chrysurus Angelfish is known for developing a bold, outgoing personality once settled, often becoming the dominant fish in the aquarium. It adapts well to captive life and readily accepts a variety of prepared foods, making it a moderately easy large angel to maintain for aquarists with the appropriate tank size.