The Indian Yellowtail Angelfish, also known simply as the Yellowtail Angelfish, is a beautiful and popular marine fish, scientifically classified as Apolemichthys xanthurus. This species is known for its vibrant coloration and graceful movements, making it a favorite among aquarists.
Description & Characteristics
The Apolemichthys xanthurus boasts a striking appearance, characterized by its deep yellow body with intricate blue and black markings. The most prominent feature is the distinctive yellow tail fin, giving the fish its common name. This angelfish can reach a maximum size of 15.0 cm, though they typically remain smaller in captivity.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Indian Yellowtail Angelfish is found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. This species primarily inhabits coral reefs and rocky outcrops, typically at depths ranging from 5.0 to 25.0 meters. They are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific’s marine zones, including the Indian Ocean and the western Pacific Ocean, making them a prevalent presence in these aquatic ecosystems.
Taxonomy
The species Apolemichthys xanthurus belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Pomacanthidae. The Teleostei class encompasses most of the bony fish species, while the Acanthuriformes order includes the surgeonfish, unicornfish, and tangs, characterized by their spiny fins. The family Pomacanthidae includes the angelfish, which are known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
Feeding
The Indian Yellowtail Angelfish is an omnivore and has a diverse diet. They feed on a variety of foods, including brine shrimps, clam meat, flakes, frozen food (large sort), krill, lettuce, mosquito larvae, mysis, nori-algae, and sponges.
Image References