Regal Angelfish – Pygoplites diacanthus

Quarantine and Conditioning Started on 10/01 - Release Date: 10/23
If you wish to purchase this fish before the release date we will hold the fish for you. Let us know your desired ship date. If there is an issue during the Quarantine process, we will issue a refund.

The Regal Angelfish (Pygoplites diacanthus) is one of the most distinctive Indo-Pacific marine angelfishes, recognized by its alternating orange and blue-white vertical bands edged in dark coloration, yellow tail, and intricately patterned fins. The species belongs to the family Pomacanthidae and is the only species currently recognized in the genus Pygoplites. FishBase

Regal Angelfish have an exceptionally broad Indo-Pacific distribution, extending from the Red Sea and East Africa eastward to the Tuamotu Islands, north to the Ryukyu and Ogasawara Islands, and south to Australia's Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia. FishBase

In nature, P. diacanthus inhabits coral-rich lagoon and seaward reefs, frequently remaining near caves, crevices and other reef structure. FishBase records the species from the surface to approximately 110 meters, although it is strongly associated with coral-rich reef habitats. Individuals may occur alone, in pairs or in groups. FishBase

An important consideration with Regal Angelfish is their specialized natural diet. FishBase documents sponges and tunicates as major natural foods. This specialization helps explain why Regal Angelfish require considerably more attention to feeding and acclimation than many generalist marine fishes. FishBase

FishBase records a maximum size of 25 cm standard length, approximately 9.8 inches, and a maximum reported age of 15 years. FishBase

This Indonesian specimen is offered as one of Dr. Mac’s Quarantined and Conditioned Fish.

Care Guide

Scientific Name: Pygoplites diacanthus (Boddaert, 1772)
Common Name: Regal Angelfish
Other Common Name: Royal Angelfish
Family: Pomacanthidae
Origin: Indonesia
Availability: Conditioned & Quarantined
Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Generally peaceful to semi-aggressive
Reef Compatibility: Reef compatible with caution
Minimum Aquarium Size: 125 gallons recommended
Maximum Recorded Size: 25 cm SL / approximately 9.8 inches FishBase
Diet: Omnivorous/specialized benthic feeder; sponges and tunicates are important natural foods
Temperature: 75–80°F
Specific Gravity: 1.023–1.026
pH: 8.1–8.4

Aquarium Requirements: An established aquarium with mature rockwork, caves and sheltered areas is strongly recommended. Open swimming areas should be combined with substantial reef structure, reflecting the coral-rich environments and cave-associated habitat occupied by the species in nature. FishBase

Diet and Feeding: Feeding is one of the most important considerations with Regal Angelfish. Their natural diet includes sponges and tunicates, rather than simply algae or generalized planktonic foods. FishBase In captivity, offer a diverse marine diet that includes preparations formulated for marine angelfish and containing sponge material, along with mysis shrimp, finely chopped marine foods and other high-quality foods the individual readily accepts. Multiple smaller feedings can be useful during acclimation.

Care Level: Advanced. I would not classify this species as merely moderate. FishBase specifically notes poor historical aquarium survival, consistent with the species' specialized feeding ecology. FishBase A well-established aquarium and close attention to feeding are particularly important.

Temperament: Regal Angelfish are generally less overtly aggressive than many larger angelfishes, although individual behavior varies. Territorial behavior toward other angelfishes can occur, particularly where space or shelter is limited.

Reef Compatibility: Reef compatible with caution. The Regal Angelfish is naturally associated with coral reefs but should not be considered guaranteed coral-safe. Its specialized benthic feeding behavior means individual fish may investigate or feed on sessile reef organisms.

Natural Habitat: Coral-rich lagoons and seaward reefs throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific. The species is frequently associated with caves and other reef shelter and may occur individually, in pairs or in groups.