Fin's Fish Guide
The Angelfish (Pomacanthus arcuatus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacanthidae that grows up to 60 cm.
Description
The gray angelfish is an angelfish of the family Pomacanthidae from the western Atlantic and Caribbean. The species grows to about 60 cm and has a deep, disc-shaped, grey body; juveniles are black with bright yellow bars and act as cleaners. It is common on coral reefs, usually solitarily and sometimes in pairs. As an omnivore it feeds mainly on sponges, supplemented with algae, bryozoans, tunicates and coral polyps. The gray angelfish closely resembles the French angelfish but is greyer with a straight tail margin. It is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Angelfish?
The Angelfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a plain pattern. Grey disc-shaped body; juveniles black with yellow bands and cleaner fish, resembles the French angelfish. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with care or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Angelfish live?
The Angelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Western Atlantic and Caribbean; coral reefs.
How big does the Angelfish get?
The Angelfish grows to a maximum of about 60 cm. On average the species is around 45 cm.
Is the Angelfish dangerous to humans?
The flesh of the Angelfish is poisonous, so don't eat it. It has no venomous spines. In some tropical areas the flesh of this angelfish can contain ciguatera, an algal toxin that builds up through the food chain and is not destroyed by cooking. Avoid eating large specimens there. If you get tingling, vomiting or diarrhoea after eating it, see a doctor.
Is the Angelfish edible?
The Angelfish is rarely eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pomacanthus
More from the family Pomacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Angelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Angelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.
Or scan with your phone