Angelfish

With their vibrant colours and graceful movements, angelfish are some of the most eye-catching residents of Tynemouth Aquarium. These fascinating fish can be found in both freshwater and saltwater habitats across the world, from the Amazon River to the coral reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

At Tynemouth Aquarium, we’re ecstatic to call angelfish residents of our aquarium, and we’re even more excited to share their wonderful colours and graceful presence with you!

Must-know facts about angelfish

Angelfish are one of the most recognisable and admired fish species in the ocean, known for their striking colours and elegant, disc-like bodies. These fascinating creatures come in a variety of patterns and hues, making them a favourite for guests.

Where did angelfish get their name?

Angelfish earned their name from their unique, wing-like fins resembling an angel’s silhouette when gliding through the water. Their graceful movements also add to their heavenly appearance.

Where do angelfish typically live?

Angelfish can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments, depending on the species. 

Freshwater angelfish originate from the slow-moving rivers of South America, especially in the Amazon Basin.

Saltwater angelfish thrive in tropical coral reefs, where they weave through rock formations and sea sponges.

How many species of angelfish are there?

There are over 90 species of saltwater angelfish and three main species of freshwater angelfish. With so many species, it’s little wonder that there is so much diversity within the genus of pterophyllum.

What do angelfish eat?

Angelfish have a varied diet depending on their environment. Saltwater species primarily feed on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. Meanwhile, freshwater species eat insects, larvae, and plant matter.

Their diet plays a crucial role in maintaining their vibrant colours, with different nutrients helping to enhance the vibrancy of their scales.

Types of angelfish at Tynemouth Aquarium

At Tynemouth Aquarium, you can spot a variety of beautiful angelfish species, each with its own unique characteristics. Keep an eye out for these mesmerising residents as you explore the exhibits!

Arabian angelfish

The Arabian angelfish (Pomacanthus asfur) is a beautiful species native to the western Indian Ocean and the Red Sea. It is easily recognisable by its deep blue body, bright yellow tail, and eye-catching electric blue markings.

Arabian angelfish start their lives as juveniles with completely different colouration, striped with black, white, and blue. As they mature, they develop their distinctive adult colours.

Bicolour angelfish

The bicolour angelfish (Centropyge bicolor) is a species of angelfish with a vivid yellow front half and a deep blue back half as if the angelfish printer has run out of yellow ink!

Fascinatingly, bicolour angelfish are sequential hermaphrodites, meaning they can change sex depending on their social structure!

Vermiculated angelfish

Also known as the maze angelfish, the vermiculated angelfish (Chaetodontoplus mesoleucus) is a unique species with a yellow face, a pale silver-grey body, and intricate black markings that look like a maze.

Their name, “vermiculated,” comes from the Latin word vermis, meaning “worm-like,” referring to their intricate patterns.

Come and see for yourself!

While there isn’t a dedicated angelfish exhibit, these stunning fish can be spotted throughout Tynemouth Aquarium, so be sure to explore and keep a keen eye out for them! Their unique shape makes them difficult to miss!

Book your visit today and dive into the wonders of the deep.