Regal angelfish

Pygoplites diacanthus · Pomacanthidae

Also known as Royal angelfish

Advanced

Striking striped angel; Indian Ocean specimens feed far better than Pacific ones, but still expert-only.

In short: A regal angelfish needs at least 450 L (119 US gal), water at 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) and pH 8.1–8.4. It is peaceful, usually kept singly, and rated advanced to keep.

Updated 6 October 2026

Minimum tank: 450 L (119 US gal)
Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Adult size: 25 cm (9.8 in)
Group size: 1+

Reef & marine husbandry

Specific gravity: 1.023–1.026
Reef safety: Reef safe with caution
With corals: Picks at LPS, soft coral and clams.
With inverts: Eats sponges and tube worms.
Minimum in a mixed reef: 450 L (119 US gal)
Minimum fish-only (FOWLR): 450 L (119 US gal)
Aggression: Shy; loses feeding contests.
Feeding: Three or more small feeds daily.

Care requirements

Minimum tank volume: 450 L (119 US gal)
Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Hardness: 8–12 dGH
Lifespan: 10–15 years
Diet: Omnivore — sponge-based angel formula, live sponge, mysis, nori.
Care level: Advanced

Origin & habitat

Native region: Indian Ocean, Red Sea and Indo-Pacific
Water type: Saltwater
Biotope: Sponge-rich coral reef caves
Natural conditions: Mature, quiet, pristine reef.

Behaviour & stocking

Temperament: Peaceful
Minimum group: 1 fish
Swims: All levels
Good tank mates: Peaceful tangs
Wrasses
Cardinalfish
Avoid: Aggressive tank mates
Newly set-up tanks

Breeding & difficulty

Breeding difficulty: Advanced
Sexing: No external difference.
Notes: Not bred in captivity.
Common ailments: Starvation
Marine ich
Internal parasites

Will it fit your tank?

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