Apolemichthys xanthurus (Bennett, 1833)
Yellowtail angelfish
photo by Allen, G.R.

Family:  Pomacanthidae (Angelfishes)
Max. size:  15 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 5 - 25 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: Mauritius to India and Sri Lanka.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 14-14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17-19; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 17-18. Description: Body pale gray or light brown; black spots on scales larger dorsally, resulting in dark color on upper sides grading to pearly white ventrally. Head dark brown or black; snout lighter; a yellow spot about equal to eye diameter on the temple region. Caudal fin yellow; dorsal and anal fins dark brown to black with white margin; adjacent caudal peduncle region also black (Ref. 4858). Body depth 1.6-1.9 in SL. Scales longitudinal series 52-54 (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Inhabits coral-rich areas (Ref. 9710). Found singly or in pairs.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 08 October 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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