Black-velvet angelfish
📖 Overview
An uncommon species that inhabits coastal reefs and drop-offs that are exposed to strong tidal currents . Juveniles on deep rubble slopes with rich invertebrate growth. Feeds on sponges and tunicates. Solitary or in pairs. Frequently exported through the aquarium trade .
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17 - 19; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 17 - 18. : short and / or deep.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Black-velvet angelfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Black-velvet angelfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Reproduction data for Black-velvet angelfish is currently being compiled.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; non-migratory; depth range 5 - 30 m . Tropical West Pacific: Indo-Malayan region and New Guinea , northward to southern Japan.
🌿 Ecology
sponges and tunicates
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Black-velvet 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
Detailed nutritional data for Black-velvet angelfish is currently being compiled from USDA FoodData Central.
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Black-velvet 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holacanthus melanosoma | Bleeker | 1853 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 2 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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