Emperor Angelfish
Species: Pomacanthus imperator
Origin: Indo-Pacific
Family: Pomacanthidae
Overview:
The Emperor Angelfish, also known as the Imperator Angelfish, is one of the most iconic and visually stunning marine angelfish. Adults display bold yellow horizontal stripes over a deep blue body, a white mouth, a black eye band, and a vibrant yellow to orange caudal fin. A brilliant blue edge outlines many of its markings. Juveniles look entirely different—sporting a dark body with concentric white and electric blue circles—and go through a dramatic transformation as they mature.
This species requires a large, well-established aquarium of at least 220 gallons, with extensive live rock for grazing and deep caves to provide shelter. Though reef-compatible with caution, the Emperor Angelfish may nip at large-polyp stony corals, soft corals, and clam mantles. Some aquarists report more success when keeping this species with noxious soft corals or SPS-dominated reefs.
A varied diet rich in marine algae, Spirulina, mysis shrimp, and angelfish-specific preparations is essential to support its coloration, immune system, and long-term health.
Care Details:
- Minimum Tank Size: 220 gallons
- Care Level: Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
- Reef Compatible: With Caution
- Diet: Omnivore (Spirulina, marine algae, mysis, high-quality angelfish blends)
- Maximum Size: Up to 15 inches
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 72 – 78°F
- pH: 8.1 – 8.4
- Salinity: 1.020 – 1.025
- dKH: 8 – 12
Available Sizes:
- Small (S): 2 – 3" (Juvenile)
- Medium (M): 3 – 5" (Juvenile | Color Changing)
- Large (L): 5 – 7" (Adult)
- Extra Large (XL): 7 – 9" (Adult)
Important Livestock Notices:
- This fish has not been quarantined.
- We recommend that all new fish are quarantined prior to introduction into your display system.
- Photos are for reference only — the fish you receive will not be the exact specimen pictured. Appearance may vary based on sex, maturity, region, and individual variation.
- All livestock must be drip-acclimated slowly to ensure a safe transition to your aquarium.
We totally understand that plans change! You can modify or cancel your order as long as it hasn’t been shipped yet. Just call or email us right away - our team will confirm if we can catch it before it leaves our facility.
If your order is already in transit, you’ll need to request a return once it arrives. Keep in mind that some items, like aquariums and livestock, can’t be returned.
For full terms, please refer to our Refund & Return Policy.
Placing an order is simple - just add your item to the cart & complete the checkout process online. Once your order is confirmed, we'll reach out to you directly to schedule a local pick-up appointment at our facility.
* All local pick-ups are by appointment only *
Order processing typically takes 1-2 business days for products that are in stock or readily available through our network of distributors. Some products, however, are fulfilled on demand directly from our distributors, which can slightly extend processing and delivery times depending on availability and location.
Rest assured - we always work to get your order shipped as quickly as possible.
If you’d like to confirm availability or request an ETA before placing your order, you’re always welcome to call or email us.