I LIVE IN THE INDO-PACIFIC OCEAN
The emperor angelfish is native to the Indian and Pacific Oceans and can be found from the East Africa all the way to the Hawaiian Islands. Emperor angelfish hide in caves and under ledges, and they will stay near reefs and surge channels where they can escape predators easily.
I AM AN OMNIVORE
An emperor angelfish prefers to eat sponges and algae, however, they have been known to consumer small marine invertebrates. They will also eat parasites off of larger fish species.
EMPEROR ANGELFISH ARE SOLITARY
Emperor angelfish spend the majority of their time swimming alone. Occasionally juvenile fish of this species will be found swimming together, however, adult emperor angelfish rarely do this. They are very protective of their space and will defend it against other fish.
CIRCLES TO STRIPES
A juvenile emperor angelfish has a dark blue body with blue and white curved lives creating circles on their sides. As this fish ages, these curved white lines disappear and in their place are horizontal yellow and blue coloration.
HELPING THE EMPEROR ANGELFISH IN THE WILD
By visiting the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, you are supporting local, regional, and global conservation. A portion of every ticket sold goes towards conservation of wildlife and wild places. Each year, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo donates over $250,000 to our conservation partners.
I AM IMPORTANT TO MY ECOSYSTEM
Because they will primarily consumer algae, the emperor angelfish plays an important role in keep algae growth under control, something that brings balance to the reef and ensures its health and survival.