The Semicircle Angelfish (Pomacanthus semicirculatus) is a striking and popular species of angelfish that is prized by aquarium enthusiasts for its vibrant coloration and graceful movements. This fish is a member of the family Pomacanthidae, commonly known as angelfish, and is a relatively large species within its genus.
Description & Characteristics
The Semicircle Angelfish (Pomacanthus semicirculatus) is easily recognizable by its distinctive color pattern. Its body is a rich, deep blue with a bright yellow band running diagonally from its snout to its tail. The yellow band is edged with a thin black line. The fish has a long, oval-shaped body that can reach a maximum size of 40.0 cm. Juveniles of the Semicircle Angelfish (Pomacanthus semicirculatus) have a slightly different coloration, exhibiting a more mottled pattern with brown and orange spots.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Semircircle Angelfish (Pomacanthus semicirculatus) typically inhabits tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Its depth range extends from 1.0 to 40.0 meters, meaning it can be found in a variety of environments, from shallow reefs to deeper coral formations. This angelfish is commonly observed in coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and seagrass beds, thriving in the diverse marine ecosystems of these regions.
Taxonomy
The species Semicircle Angelfish (Pomacanthus semicirculatus) belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Pomacanthidae. The Teleostei class encompasses a vast majority of ray-finned fishes, characterized by their bony skeletons and highly developed fins. The Acanthuriformes order, commonly known as surgeonfishes, includes species distinguished by their sharp, scalpel-like spines located near their tails. The Pomacanthidae family, also known as angelfishes, is notable for its diverse array of vibrant colors and captivating patterns.
Feeding
The Semicircle Angelfish (Pomacanthus semicirculatus) is primarily herbivorous, feeding on a diet of algae, coral polyps, and various other plant matter. In captivity, they can be fed a variety of prepared foods, including flakes, frozen foods (like mysis and krill), and algae-based snacks like nori. They also enjoy occasional treats of lettuce and brine shrimp. The Semicircle Angelfish (Pomacanthus semicirculatus) can sometimes exhibit opportunistic carnivory, consuming small invertebrates or zooplankton.
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