Queen Angel (Linnaeus, 1758)

 Scientific Name  Holacanthus ciliaris
 Diet  Herbivore; algae, sponges, tunicates
 Alt Common Name  Isabellita, Golden Angel, Hokuro-yakko (Jap. 'black cheek valet')
 Family  Pomacanthidae
 Origin  W. Atlantic
 Aquarist Level  Intermediate
 Reef Safe  With Caution
 Coloration  Blue with Yellow highlights
 Disposition  Generally Peaceful.
 Hardiness  Moderate
 Compatibility  Peaceful with other species. Aggressive with own species
 Mature Size  10 inches
 Sexual Dimorphism  Males tend to have brighter coloration.

Recommended Supplements

Notes: Large angels may nip at soft or hard corals.  Caution is advised when adding to a reef aquarium.  A larger aquarium (75 to 125 gallon plus) is recommended for housing large angels.  Juvenile queen angels will eat ectoparasites from other aquarium fish.

Most Holacanthus angels undergo a color change between the juvenile and adult stages of life.  The queen angel's color transformation is dramatic.