The Regal Angelfish, Fancy Juvenile (Pygoplites diacanthus) is a specially selected juvenile form of the Royal Angelfish, a species of marine angelfish belonging to the family Pomacanthidae and the monotypic genus Pygoplites. It was first formally described in 1772 by the Dutch naturalist Pieter Boddaert. This specimen represents a premium juvenile coloration variant, often displaying more vivid and contrasting patterns than standard juveniles. Juvenile Regal Angelfish feature a large dark spot on the basal portion of the soft

Physical Description

dorsal fin and may show more intense coloration. The body is edged in narrow blue-white and orange stripes that angle backward. The Regal Angelfish is

Distribution and Habitat

widely distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific, from the Red Sea and Indian Ocean to the Tuamoto Islands, New Caledonia, and the Great Barrier Reef. It occurs at depths from 0 to 80 meters in coral-rich areas of lagoons and reefs, often near caves. It

Diet and Feeding

feeds on sponges and tunicates. This species can be challenging to keep

Aquarium Care

in captivity and is recommended for expert aquarists only. A healthy specimen given the right environment will start feeding within days when offered a variety of live, frozen, and freeze-dried foods. It is valued for being one of the few relatively reef-safe angelfish. The Regal Angelfish requires a tank of at least 100 gallons with stable water conditions and abundant live rock.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.