The Six Banded Angelfish (Pomacanthus sexstriatus) is one of the largest types of angelfish, growing up to 50 cm in length. This angelfish features six prominent vertical stripes on each side of its body. The first stripe is white and situated just behind the eye, while the remaining five stripes are black and extend towards the tail fin.
The face of the Six Banded Angelfish is entirely black with a small, beak-shaped mouth. This black color gradually transitions into a yellowish hue along the body, which is decorated with vibrant blue polka dots scattered across it.
Behavior
Six Banded Angelfish are typically shy and cautious, maintaining a safe distance from scuba divers. They are very vigilant and prefer not to get too close. They are often seen swimming alone or in pairs, rarely forming large groups. When they feel threatened, they may quickly retreat into the safety of the reef crevices. These angelfish are also known to be territorial, especially during breeding seasons, often defending their chosen area from other fish. Additionally, they tend to have a set routine, frequently following the same paths while foraging for food.
Feeding and Diet
Six Banded Angelfish are omnivores, enjoying a varied diet. Their primary food sources include small sponges, mollusks, worms, and even eggs. Their protruding mouth is perfectly adapted to pick up food and break off small parts of sponges. They are often seen nibbling on coral reefs, using their specialized teeth to extract their preferred foods. They forage for food throughout the day, maintaining a steady intake to support their active lifestyle. They also have a tendency to graze on algae, contributing to the health and balance of the reef ecosystem.
Reproduction
Six Banded Angelfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, starting life as females and turning into males as they grow. During the breeding season, males set up territories and attract females with special displays. Spawning happens at dusk when pairs swim up together and release eggs and sperm into the water. The fertilized eggs float with the currents, hatch into larvae, and eventually settle into the reef to grow. This process helps spread their offspring widely and increase survival chances.
Predators
The Six Banded Angelfish face several predators, including larger fish like groupers and snappers, sharks that hunt in reef environments, and moray eels that ambush smaller fish. Additionally, humans can be predators, targeting them for the aquarium trade or as food.
Did you know?
- Six Banded Angelfish can live up to 15 years, making a lasting impact on reef ecosystems.
- Juvenile Six Banded Angelfish have fewer stripes and a more subdued color palette. They undergo a significant change in appearance as they mature.
- These fish often visit cleaning stations where smaller fish remove parasites from their bodies, showcasing a beneficial relationship within the reef community.
- When stressed or defensive, Six Banded Angelfish can emit a grunting noise underwater. If you hear this sound, it’s a sign you might be too close for their comfort.
Where to Find Six Banded Angelfish on Koh Tao
You can spot the Six Banded Angelfish while scuba diving at various dive sites around Koh Tao, check out dive sites like:
