Keyhole angelfish
📖 Overview
Relatively uncommon in mixed coral and rubble areas of lagoon and seaward reefs. The largest member of the genus . Feeds mainly on algae. Forms harems of 3-7 individuals. Frequently exported through the aquarium trade .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15 - 16; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 16 - 17. Overall black with an elongate vertical black blotch on the middle of the upper sides. When small, mainly black with a white bar; the white bar changes to a central blotch and varies greatly in shape and size . Dorsal and anal fins with submarginal blue line; most of the pelvic and the anterior portion of the anal fin yellow. Caudal fin with submarginal blue line . Body depth 1.8-2.0 in SL. Scales longitudinal series 45-48 .: short and / or deep; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Keyhole angelfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Keyhole angelfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Sex reversals are completed in 29-35 days .
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; non-migratory; depth range 4 - 55 m . Tropical; 32°N - 32°S north to southern Japan, south to Scott Reef (eastern Indian Ocean) and Lord Howe Island.
🌿 Ecology
algae
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Keyhole angelfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.2 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 109 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Keyhole angelfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Centriopyge tibicen | Cuvier | 1831 | Synonym |
| Centropyge tibicens | Cuvier | 1831 | Synonym |
| Holacanthus leucopleura | Bleeker | 1853 | Synonym |
| Holacanthus tibicen | Cuvier | 1831 | Synonym |
| Xiphipops tibicen | Cuvier | 1831 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 14 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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