Passer Angelfish

The Passer Angelfish, commonly known as the King Angelfish, is one of the most striking and dominant large angelfish species from the eastern Pacific. Adults display a bold dark navy-blue to black body bisected by a single broad white vertical bar just behind the pectoral fin, creating a dramatic two-tone appearance. The caudal fin is bright yellow, and the dorsal and anal fins feature vivid orange-yellow trailing edges. This regal color pattern, combined with the species' confident bearing, fully justifies its royal common name.

In the wild, Passer Angelfish are found along rocky reefs and boulder-strewn coastlines from the Sea of Cortez south to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands. They are among the most common large angelfish on eastern Pacific reefs, where they are frequently observed patrolling territories along reef walls and rocky drop-offs. Juveniles serve as cleaner fish for larger species, setting up cleaning stations where they pick parasites from willing clients including manta rays and sea turtles.

Reaching up to 14 inches in captivity, the Passer Angelfish requires a spacious aquarium of at least 175 gallons. This species is notably more aggressive than many other large angelfish and will aggressively defend its territory against similar-sized fish. It is not reef-safe and should be housed in fish-only systems. Despite its aggressive temperament, the King Angelfish is a hardy and long-lived species that adapts well to aquarium conditions, developing a bold personality and becoming a commanding centerpiece fish.