Goldspotted Angelfish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Central Pacific, primarily around the Line and Phoenix Islands (Kiribati). Inhabits deep seaward reefs and steep coral-rich drop-offs at depths of 10 to 60 meters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the family Pomacanthidae. The name Apolemichthys xanthoprunion represents a descriptive synonym of the Goldflake Angelfish (Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus). Reaches up to 25 cm in length, with a robust oval body shape.

Social Behavior: Mostly solitary or found in loose pairs. Exhibits strong territoriality toward other angelfish, but is generally peaceful toward unrelated tankmates.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Golden-orange body covered with brilliant gold spots. Dorsal and anal fins are deep black with vibrant electric-blue margins. Caudal fin is bright yellow. No sexual dimorphism is visible.

Aquarium Setup: Requires a large tank of at least 450 liters with plenty of open swimming space and sturdy live rock structures. A tight-fitting lid is necessary as they are prone to jumping.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivore. Feeds naturally on sponges, tunicates, and benthic algae. In captivity, feed three times daily with frozen mysis, brine shrimp, chopped clam, and sponge-enriched angelfish foods.

Water Quality: Demands high stability and excellent parameters. Temperature 23–28°C, pH 8.1–8.4, salinity SG 1.020–1.025, GH 15–25, and KH 8–12. High-performance protein skimming is highly recommended.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Semi-aggressive as an adult. Reef-safe with caution: it may nip at stony corals (SPS/LPS) and clam mantles if underfed.

Aquarium Reproduction: Undocumented in captivity. Broadcast spawners that release pelagic eggs in the wild.

Risks and Diseases: Adapts better than other Apolemichthys species, but remains susceptible to transportation stress and marine ich (Cryptocaryon) during acclimation.