Marine life identification guide
>
Angelfish
The angelfish, jewel of the tropical seas
Pomacanthidae (angelfish) are among the most iconic of the coral reef fishes. With their bright colors, captivating patterns and flat, tall in structure body, they surely are the most majestic residents of the reef.
Certain species can reach a length of 60cm, while the smallest do not exceed 15cm. Most of juvenile angelfish has a drastically different color pattern than the adult. For example, juveniles’ emperor angelfish are dark blue with electric blue and white rings, while adults have bright yellow and blue horizontal stripes, with a dark mask covering the eyes.
Some angelfish species are noted to be inquisitive and curious towards snorkelers.
Where do angelfish live?
Over 80 species of angelfish are found in the Caribbean Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, most of them with very specific distribution areas.
French angelfish is one of the most abundant in the Caribbean, while emperor angelfish and regal angelfish are commonly seen while snorkeling the Indian and western Pacific Ocean.
The King angelfish occurs on the eastern Pacific Ocean, from the Gulf of California to coastal Peru, including the Galápagos Islands.
Caribbean & Western Atlantic angelfish
Indian & Pacific Oceans angelfish
Eastern Pacific Ocean angelfish
Do you like angelfish?
Check out our top10 snorkeling spots to see angelfish!
Discover more fish families
Butterflyfish & bannerfish
Damselfish
Clownfish
See all fish families
Still trying to identify a fish you've seen?
Ask our experts!
Check out our selection of fish identification guides!
Want to learn more about the species you’ve observed or photographed underwater?
The identification guides are true treasures for those curious to know about the underwater world, and a beautiful way to dream about your future snorkeling explorations!
