Goldtail Angelfish (Pomacanthus Chrysurus)

The Goldtail Angelfish, also known as the Chrysurus Angelfish, is an eye-catching species known for its dark blue to black body contrasted by striking vertical white stripes and a vibrant yellow tail. Its beauty, coupled with its size, makes it a stunning addition to large reef aquariums.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 14 inches.
• Tank Size: 180 gallons minimum, with ample swimming space and lots of live rock for hiding and grazing.
• Diet: Omnivorous; feeds on a variety of foods including high-quality marine pellets, algae, sponges, and meaty foods like shrimp.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Semi-aggressive; can be territorial, especially as it matures, and may not tolerate other angelfish.
• Skill Level: Advanced; requires pristine water conditions and plenty of space.
• Reef Compatibility: Not entirely reef-safe; may nip at corals, especially soft corals, and can target sponges and some invertebrates.

Color Variation by Locality

• Indian Ocean: Typically displays deep blue to black bodies with well-defined white vertical stripes and a vibrant gold-yellow tail.
• Eastern Africa & Madagascar: Fish from these regions may have slightly different intensities in their stripe patterns and tail color​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: The Goldtail Angelfish is native to the Indian Ocean, particularly around East Africa, Madagascar, and the Seychelles. It thrives in coral-rich reef environments at depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters. They are usually seen near drop-offs or reef edges where they can graze on sponges and algae​.