The Regal Angelfish, Pygoplites diacanthus, also known as the Royal Angelfish or Royal Empress Angel, features a beautiful display of colors and stripes. Its body is a mosaic of orange, silver and blue with a bright yellow tail. The Regal Angel's face features electric blue markings and its caudal fins are ornately decorated with blue and orange striping. As one of the most beautiful and elaborate Angelfish, the Regal Angel is a wonderful addition to most home aquariums. This species will undoubtedly be a centerpiece of any aquarium.
In the wild the Regal Angel is a solitary species and can be timid in the aquarium. They will tend to shy away from overly aggressive tank mates so be cautious with tank pairings. It can often be good to add the Regal Angel first to any reef tank. It is a sensitive Angel species that requires well circulated water and plenty of live rock to thrive. Tanks should be at least 100 gallons, have plenty of hiding places as well as free swimming space, and should only contain one Angelfish species. Additionally, the Regal Angel may nip at soft corals and clam mantes so it is considered reef safe with caution.
Feeding the Regal Angel can be a task. They will eat live, fresh, or frozen shrimps as well as freshly opened clams and quality vegetable-based flake foods. They should be fed one herbivorous portion per day.