Pygoplites diacanthus
Encounter Rate
Spotting Difficulty
Best Season
Year-round
Depth Range
3-48 meters
The regal angelfish is one of the most stunningly beautiful fish on Komodo's reefs, with a bold pattern of alternating yellow-orange and white vertical bands outlined in electric blue, set against a royal blue dorsal region. This medium-sized angelfish is a jewel of healthy coral reef ecosystems and is found throughout the park at sites with abundant hard and soft coral growth. Despite its eye-catching appearance, the regal angelfish can be surprisingly shy and difficult to photograph, often darting between coral formations and keeping the reef between itself and approaching divers. They are typically found in pairs or individually along reef walls and slopes at moderate depths, where they feed on sponges and tunicates — a specialised diet that makes them difficult to keep in aquariums and thus all the more rewarding to observe in the wild. In Komodo, they are a common yet always appreciated sighting, adding a flash of extraordinary colour to every reef dive.
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Average Size
15-20cm
Size Range
8-25cm
Maximum Size
25cm
Specialist feeder on sponges and tunicates (sea squirts). Uses its small mouth to pick at sponge tissue and ascidians growing on reef walls and under coral overhangs.
The regal angelfish is one of the most stunningly beautiful fish on Komodo's reefs, with a bold pattern of alternating yellow-orange and white vertical bands outlined in electric blue, set against a royal blue dorsal region. This medium-sized angelfish is a jewel of healthy coral reef ecosystems and is found throughout the park at sites with abundant hard and soft coral growth. Despite its eye-catching appearance, the regal angelfish can be surprisingly shy and difficult to photograph, often darting between coral formations and keeping the reef between itself and approaching divers. They are typically found in pairs or individually along reef walls and slopes at moderate depths, where they feed on sponges and tunicates — a specialised diet that makes them difficult to keep in aquariums and thus all the more rewarding to observe in the wild. In Komodo, they are a common yet always appreciated sighting, adding a flash of extraordinary colour to every reef dive.
This species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem of Komodo National Park. Responsible diving practices help protect these animals and their habitat for future generations.
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They are found at most healthy reef sites with good coral cover. Batu Bolong, Tatawa Besar, and Siaba Besar are reliable sites. Look along reef walls and slopes where sponge growth is abundant.
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