African Chrysurus Angelfish Pomacanthus chrysurus

African Chrysurus Angelfish

The Chrysurus Angelfish, also celebrated by hobbyists as the Goldtail Angelfish or Ear Spot Angelfish, is a prized rarity due to limited collection numbers. Adults showcase a rich, mottled chestnut-brown body crossed by sweeping vertical white bars. Electric sapphire-blue lines accent the face and gill covers, leading to its signature golden-yellow tail edged in matching neon blue. Juveniles feature classic dark blue patterning with concentric white and light blue striping, with the clear juvenile tail gradually warming into gold as the fish reaches adulthood. Like many members of the Pomacanthidae family, they are protogynous hermaphrodites, and distinguishing males from females by sight is nearly impossible. Captive breeding remains exceptionally difficult. To sustain vibrant coloration and strong immune health, their diet should consist of a diverse mix of vegetable matter and protein. Offer spirulina, nori, quality commercial frozen angelfish formulas containing natural sponge, as well as enriched mysis shrimp and chopped marine meats.

Chrysurus Angelfish Species Facts

• Scientific Name: Pomacanthus chrysurus
• Family: Pomacanthidae
• Origin / Native Region: Western Indian Ocean (East Africa)
• Adult Size: Up to 13 inches
• Care Difficulty: Moderate to Easy (for experienced aquarists)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Reef Compatibility: With caution; may nip at sessile invertebrates, corals, and clam mantles
• Minimum Tank Size: 200 gallons (250+ gallons recommended for full adults)
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1 – 8.4, dKH 8 – 12

Approximate Purchase Sizes

• Juvenile: Small (1.5" to 2.25"), Medium (2.25" to 2.75"), Large (2.75" to 3.5")
• Sub-Adult: Small (2" to 2.5"), Medium (2.5" to 3.25"), Large (3.25" to 4.5")
• Adult: Small (2.25" to 2.75"), Small/Medium (2.75" to 3.25"), Medium (3.25" to 4.5"), Medium/Large (4.5" to 5.5"), Large (5.5" to 6.5"), X-Large (6.5" to 7"), XX-Large (7.5" to 8"), Show Size (8.5" to 10")