Blueface Adult Angel (Pomacanthus xanthometopon)
Max Size: 15 inches (1 foot 3 inches)
Diet: Omnivore
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: With Caution. May eat soft polyps
Minimum Tank Size: 220 gallons
The Blueface Angelfish, also known as the Yellowface or Yellowmask Angelfish, displays a significant difference in coloration between its juvenile and adult stages. As a juvenile, its body is striped vertically in black, white, and sapphire blue. Upon reaching around five inches, it gradually transforms into a pale yellow with blue scales and bright yellow pectoral fins. The Blueface Angelfish has a blue mottled face with a yellow mask covering its eyes but not extending much beyond them. Additionally, it has an eyespot at the end of the dorsal fin.
Providing a 220-gallon tank with multiple hiding places and a lot of live rock is ideal for this species. The Blueface Angelfish is not suitable for reef tanks since it may nip at sessile invertebrates such as stony and soft corals or clam mantles. It is also best kept as the only angelfish, as it tends to become territorial when it is the largest fish in the tank.
The Blueface Angelfish's diet should include Spirulina, marine algae, high-quality angelfish preparations, mysis or frozen shrimp, and other meaty foods. It should be fed at least three times a day.