Chrysurus Angel (Indian Ocean)

The Chrysurus angel is also known as the gold-tail or ear-spot angelfish and is a rare import. When young it is deep blue to black with alternating thin blue and thick white stripes arranged vertically over its whole body and a transparent tail. As it grows it undergoes an amazing transformation; its face takes on an intense rusty coloration with blue stripes. Its tail becomes bright yellow, and a distinctive ring forms behind the eye which is ringed in yellow. The white body stripes remain wide and bright and the blue stripes may fade away or become yellowish. Not all fish transition when at the same size, but it usually begins when they are approximately 3 inches. Males and females are visually identical.

The Chrysurus angel can grow to be approximately 13 inches long and needs a large aquarium as an adult, we recommend at least 200 gallons. It does not appreciate living with other large angelfish and may become aggressive to them, however it is typically non-aggressive with other types of fish.

Angelfish may nip on many types of corals, especially LPS corals, clam mantles, sponges, and sometimes soft corals. They do not typically bother SPS corals or other types of invertebrates. They feel most secure when there is plenty of live rock to hide in, as well as open space for swimming. Diet should include plenty of marine algae and Spirulina, Sponge matter, frozen Mysis shrimp, half shell clams, and other high quality meaty items. It should be fed 2-3 times a day.