🐠 Goldtail Angelfish (Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus)
🐠 Goldtail Angelfish (Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus)
Marine Angelfish • Coral Reef Grazer • Reef-Associated • Show Species
📋 The Goldtail Angelfish (Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus) is a luxurious show species known for its gold-spotted body and vivid yellow tail that glows under aquarium lighting. The body is a deep blue-black, adorned with fine gold speckling and contrasting yellow highlights on the fins and face.
Native to the remote Central Pacific reefs, it thrives in clear, warm waters with abundant sponge growth. In aquariums, this angelfish quickly becomes a centerpiece species, recognized for its intelligence, bold swimming pattern, and ability to coexist with other robust tank mates.
Once acclimated, the Goldtail is hardy and rewarding — an ideal choice for advanced hobbyists who appreciate rare, elegant marine fish.
💡 Highlights
✨ Gold-Spotted Elegance: Speckled body with radiant golden tail
⚪ Central Pacific Rarity: Found in Marshall and Line Islands
📏 Medium-Large Centerpiece: Up to 10" adult size
✅ Captive-Bred Availability: Ethical sourcing emerging in trade
🐠 Bold Personality: Intelligent and active swimmer
🧾 A Quick Look at the Goldtail Angelfish
📛 Common Name: Goldtail Angelfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus
👨👩👧 Family: Pomacanthidae
🌍 Origin: Central Pacific • Marshall Islands • Line Islands • Micronesia
📏 Max Size: 25 cm (≈ 10")
💧 pH Range: 8.1–8.4
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Moderate
💖 Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
🪸 Reef Safe: ❌ May nip at coral polyps and clams
🏠 Min Tank Size: 350 L (92 US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Mid to Lower
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Common in Central Pacific collections
⏳ Lifespan: 12–15 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore (sponges, tunicates, algae)
🐣 Reproduction: Pelagic spawner; forms pairs during dusk
