Regal Angelfish
Pygoplites diacanthus
Regal Angelfish is a brilliantly patterned reef angelfish of the Indo-Pacific, valued in the aquarium trade and usually not a target for angling. It inhabits coral-rich reef slopes and lagoons, feeding mainly on sponges, tunicates, and algae.
Identification points
- Bold orange-and-blue vertical bars on the body
- Blue face with a dark eye mask and yellow accents
- Long dorsal and anal fin extensions, with a rounded tail
Habitat
Coral-rich reef slopes, outer reef faces, lagoons, and drop-offs, typically in areas with abundant live coral, crevices, and ledges from shallow water to about 50 m.
Bait notes
Not a regular sportfish; no standard bait application. If encountered incidentally, small reef-appropriate offerings are more relevant than typical gamefish baits, and capture for aquarium use should be handled only where legal.
Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, moving deliberately among corals while picking at sponges and tunicates. It is wary, reef-associated, and not a schooling species.
Caution
Coral-reef capture can damage the fish and reef; it is highly specialized and often poor at surviving handling. Check local rules before collecting, as aquarium collection may be restricted; not generally considered a food fish.
Fishing notes
Best regarded as a non-target reef fish rather than an angling species. Avoid destructive reef fishing methods; observe rather than pursue, and release immediately if hooked incidentally.