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ISC DIVER
Saltwater Fishes

Red Sea angelfish

Apolemichthys xanthotis

Rank
Species
Family
Pomacanthidae
Order
Acanthuriformes

The Red Sea angelfish is a small pomacanthid that rarely exceeds 20 cm, making it an approachable subject for divers exploring coral reefs in its native range. Its compact size and distinctive colouration—yellow ear patches and contrasting body markings—make it recognisable among Red Sea reef inhabitants. Typically found singly or in pairs around coral heads and rocky outcrops, it feeds on sponges and tunicates. Despite its restricted range, it remains fairly common in suitable habitat.

Taxonomy

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Teleostei
Order
Acanthuriformes
Family
Pomacanthidae
Genus
Apolemichthys