The Yellowbar Angelfish (Pomacanthus maculosus) is a captivating and striking marine fish belonging to the angelfish family. It is recognized by its unique and vivid coloration, adding a splash of vibrancy to the coral reefs it calls home.
Description & Characteristics
The Pomacanthus maculosus is a relatively large angelfish species, reaching a maximum size of 50.0 cm. Its body is characterized by a bold, contrasting pattern. The juvenile stage displays a deep blue body with striking yellow vertical stripes. As it matures, the fish transforms into a vibrant yellow body with a dark blue margin along the dorsal and anal fins. It also develops a distinctive dark blue stripe encircling the eye, giving it an almost masked appearance.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Yellowbar Angelfish (Pomacanthus maculosus) is a tropical fish, found in the Indo-Pacific region. Its range spans from the Red Sea to the Hawaiian Islands, extending south to the Great Barrier Reef. It is a common resident of coral reefs, inhabiting a variety of depths ranging from 4.0 to 60.0 meters. This adaptable fish thrives in both shallow, sunlit reefs and deeper, less illuminated environments, making it a versatile inhabitant of diverse marine zones.
Taxonomy
The species Pomacanthus maculosus is classified within the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Pomacanthidae. This family, commonly known as angelfishes, consists of over 80 species, all characterized by their compressed bodies and striking coloration.
Feeding
The Yellowbar Angelfish (Pomacanthus maculosus) is an omnivore, displaying a diverse diet. Its feeding habits include grazing on algae, a staple in its diet, supplemented by small invertebrates like brine shrimps and zooplankton. It also enjoys a variety of other food sources like clam meat, lettuce, and nori algae. In an aquarium setting, Pomacanthus maculosus can be fed a variety of commercially available foods, including flakes, frozen foods, and even dandelion. This dietary versatility allows it to thrive in diverse marine habitats and adapt to various food sources.
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