Exciting things about Emperor Angelfish (Pomacanthus Imperator) we bet you didn’t know

Have you ever wondered why underwater marine life is so colourful and distinguished from other species? The fish species of various kingdoms and phylums make this distinguished change overall. Among all one of such species is Emperor Angelfish. This particular species of fish belongs to the Chordata phylum and Actinopterygii class. The binomial name of Emperor Angelfish is Pomacanthus Imperator. Since this fish is so different from the other fish species regarding its colour and pattern, it is a favourite of photographers and artists. 

Physical description of the Emperor Angelfish

There is a slight difference between the juvenile Angelfish and the adult Angelfish. The juvenile ones have a dark blue coloured body, and there is also a mark of concentric curving lines which become vertical at the anterior end. These fishes are seen in a combination of colours like green, yellow, blue and black. 

They have scales with curly, colourful patterns and stripes in brilliant, solid colours. Moreover, they have a flat thin body with curved dorsal and anal fins. Most of the Emperor Angelfishes are 8 to 12 inches long and weigh around 2 pounds. They even have pectoral fins, which are feathery smooth. 

Habitat of the Emperor Angelfish

Emperor Angelfish are mostly found in coral on the clear lagoons, seaward reefs and even clear bedwater channels. They normally stay in caves and ledges in very calm, quiet and clear moving water. Moreover, they are native to tropical South America, including the Amazon River system. The juveniles also take shelter at the outer reef flats. 

Diet of Emperor Angelfish

They are omnivore species and grab anything they find in the surrounding environment. Emperor Angelfish enjoys food like Spirulina, Algae and many other commercial marine seafood. They can also survive by eating frozen foods. Shrimps, chopped scallops and a few pieces of squid are their source of proteins. Spinach and marine Algae are also a part of their dietary routine. 

Behaviour and temperament of the Emperor Angelfish

Emperor Angelfish are territorial and semi-aggressive. The male Angelfishes keep battling for territories. The smaller Angelfishes bully each other regardless of their beauties. However, these fish species are very shy in a new environment. 

They spend time in hiding rather than searching for food. Once they are comfortable in the new environment, they scavenge for food. With time, they become more confident and start to hold their ground. Whenever Emperor Angelfish feels threatened, they make strange grunting noises. 

Mating and breeding

Breeding of Emperor Angelfish in a home aquarium is impossible, and the specific conditions required by these fishes are impossible to provide at home. When they are ready to copulate in the wild, the male and the female Emperor Angelfish rise to the water surface. These female Angelfish spread their eggs in the sea’s currents, where these eggs drift to someplace safe. 

Lifespan of Emperor Angelfish

An Emperor Angelfish lives over 20 years in captivity, and they tend to live more when they are in the wild. These particular species of fish are very sensitive to water conditions and can probably get sick if the tank’s condition does not meet the requirements of the fish. To give them the longest life expectancy, there is a continual need to maintain their requirements. 

Disease potential

Emperor Angelfish stayed at a high risk of experiencing many kinds of diseases. The common diseases are Marine Velvet and Lateral Line Erosion Disease. They even experience White Spot Disease caused by an external parasite. This particular condition is very contagious and can also be fatal if left untreated. Marine Velvet is a parasitic disease that covers the body with gold coloured spots, and it gives an appearance of velvet fabric that justifies its name. Parasites and water trigger diseases are fatal for Emperor Angelfish. 

Facts about Emperor Angelfish

• Emperor Angelfish, also known as Imperator Angelfish, was founded in 1787. 
• They are kept in aquariums also as they are very beautiful. 
• The method of communication among Emperor Angelfish is a mystery till now. However, some people tend to hear the sound of grunting, and it is said that they make this noise when they are threatened. 
• They are very slow swimmers and require a large space to swim freely. 5. Moreover, they can be considered good pets because of their exotic and unique looks, grabbing people’s attention.

The bottom line

Emperor Angelfish is a beautiful yet disease-prone fish. They are gorgeous saltwater fish that stand out in the crowd. What is best is that their unique colour is an instant head-turner for the world. They are even labelled as Imperial or Imperator Angelfish. 

Emperor Angelfish is one of the most recognisable and shining stars in the world of fish. The edge of the body is sapphire blue colour which gives them a distinct look. Moreover, these fishes take time to hold their ground when entering a new environment.