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Fish Shots

Queen angelfish

Holacanthus ciliaris

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Fun Facts

Queen angelfish will sometimes interbreed with blue angelfish, creating a rare hybrid species.

Species Type:

Fishes

Common Name(s):

Queen angelfish

Size:

This fish can reach lengths up to 18 inches (45 centimeters).

Diet:

Queen angelfish feed on sponges, jellyfish, plankton and algae.

Range & Habitat:

Queen angelfish inhabit the bottom of coral reefs in the western Atlantic Ocean, Gulf and Caribbean Sea.

Details:

This bright yellow reef fish has blue highlights near their face, belly and fins. Their dorsal and pelvic fins trail behind their body. Juveniles are dark blue with yellow stripes. Queen angelfish are known for their elaborate courtship. Males “dance” to attract females. Sometimes queen angelfish breed with blue angelfish, producing hybrid young.