Blue Face Angelfish

Description:
The Pomacanthus xanthometopon, commonly known as the Yellowface Angelfish or Clarion Angelfish, is a medium to large-sized species of angelfish native to the Indo-Pacific region, specifically found around the Philippines, Indonesia, and parts of the Solomon Islands. This species is recognized for its vibrant coloration, particularly the striking yellow face and blue body that give it its common name.
The juvenile Yellowface Angelfish has a distinctive blue and black body with a yellow face, and as it matures, the yellow coloration extends further onto the body, creating a beautiful contrast with its dark blue and black tones. The adult coloration is a rich blue and yellow, with the yellow face remaining a key feature throughout its life. The species can grow up to 14-15 inches (35-38 cm) in length, making it one of the larger angelfish species.
The Yellowface Angelfish is prized for its striking looks and relatively peaceful nature, though it does require specific care and a sufficiently large tank due to its size.
Care:
Tank Size: The Yellowface Angelfish is a large species and requires a minimum tank size of 180 gallons. This allows the fish enough room to swim and establish a territory. As they grow larger, it’s important to ensure they have ample space to thrive. Larger tanks (200 gallons or more) are ideal for long-term health and to prevent territorial aggression, especially if other large fish are in the tank.
Water Conditions: This species requires stable and clean water conditions to thrive. The following parameters are ideal for the Yellowface Angelfish:
Temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
Salinity: 1.023-1.025 specific gravity
pH: 8.1-8.4
Ammonia, Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: Less than 10 ppm
Regular water changes (10-20% every two weeks) are essential to keep the water quality high. A high-quality filtration system and protein skimmer will help maintain optimal water conditions, especially in larger tanks where waste can accumulate more rapidly.
Diet: The Yellowface Angelfish is an omnivore, feeding on a mix of algae, sponges, and small invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, it should be offered a varied diet to ensure it gets all the necessary nutrients. Key food options include:
Sponge-based foods (commercial or fresh sponge)
Algae sheets (nori or spirulina)
Frozen foods (mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other small invertebrates)
Vegetable matter (spirulina flakes, pellets)
High-quality angelfish pellets or flakes
A balanced diet with plenty of sponge is essential for their health, as it closely mimics their natural feeding habits. Variety in their food sources will help prevent deficiencies and promote long-term health.
Tank Setup: The Yellowface Angelfish does well in a reef-like setup with plenty of live rock for grazing, hiding, and establishing territory. They require open swimming areas and caves to retreat into, as they can be somewhat territorial, especially in smaller tanks.
A sandy substrate is preferable for resting, although it is not essential. Moderate to strong water flow will mimic their natural habitat, as they are used to moderate currents in the wild. Ensuring proper filtration and water movement is important for keeping the fish healthy.
Social Behavior: The Yellowface Angelfish is generally peaceful but can become territorial, particularly in smaller tanks. It is best kept in a larger tank with other peaceful fish that won’t compete for territory. If housed with other angelfish, especially those from the same genus (like Pomacanthus), aggression may occur, particularly if the tank is too small.
It is best to avoid keeping multiple angelfishes of similar size and shape in the same tank, as they may exhibit territorial behavior toward one another. Ideal tankmates include:
Tangs (like Yellow Tang, Purple Tang, or Achilles Tang)
Wrasses
Butterflyfish
Clownfish
Gobies
Blennies
These fish are generally compatible as long as there is sufficient space for each to establish its territory.
Companions: The Yellowface Angelfish is compatible with many reef-safe species. However, it is important to avoid other large angelfishes or aggressive fish that may compete for space. It can be kept with peaceful tankmates such as:
Wrasses
Gobies
Tangs
Butterflyfish
Clownfish
Other peaceful, non-aggressive reef fish
Avoid overly aggressive species like triggerfish or large wrasses, as they may harass the angelfish.
Maintenance: Regular tank maintenance is critical for keeping the Yellowface Angelfish healthy:
Perform routine water changes (10-20% every two weeks)
Use a protein skimmer to remove organic waste
Ensure efficient filtration to maintain clean water and prevent the buildup of harmful toxins
Regularly check for algae growth, as the Yellowface Angelfish enjoys grazing on algae, but excessive algae in the tank can indicate poor water quality.
Keeping the tank environment stable and maintaining clean water is essential to minimize stress and avoid health problems like marine ich or bacterial infections.
Additional Considerations:
Size and Space: Due to the size of the Yellowface Angelfish, a large tank (minimum of 180 gallons) is necessary to provide the fish with adequate space to swim, graze, and establish territory. Overcrowding in a smaller tank can lead to stress, aggression, and health issues.
Temperament: The Yellowface Angelfish is generally peaceful but territorial, especially as it matures. It’s important to provide plenty of space, hiding spots, and swimming areas to reduce territorial disputes. It’s also advisable to avoid housing multiple large angelfishes in the same tank unless the tank is large enough to allow for territorial separation.