Angelfishes
Emperor angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator)
The Emperor angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator) belongs to the family Pomacanthidae (angelfishes) and is found in the Red Sea, with a wider Indo-Pacific range. It reaches about 40 cm and is found at 3–60 m depth. IUCN conservation status: Least Concern. It is not dangerous to divers.
Quick facts
| Scientific name | Pomacanthus imperator |
|---|---|
| Authority | Bloch, 1787 |
| Family | Angelfishes (Pomacanthidae) |
| Common name (IT) | Pesce angelo imperatore |
| Common name (EN) | Emperor angelfish |
| Maximum size | 40 cm |
| Depth | 3–60 m |
| Distribution | Red Sea and Indo-Pacific |
| IUCN status | LC — Least Concern |
Description
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
Where it lives
Present throughout the Red Sea, with a broader range across the tropical Indo-Pacific.
- Red Sea
- Indian Ocean
- Western Pacific
Frequently asked questions
- What family does the Emperor angelfish belong to?
- The Emperor angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator) belongs to the family Pomacanthidae (angelfishes).
- Is the Emperor angelfish dangerous?
- It is not dangerous to divers. As with any reef animal, do not touch or handle it.
- Is the Emperor angelfish endemic to the Red Sea?
- No — it occurs in the Red Sea but its range extends across the Indo-Pacific.
- How big does the Emperor angelfish get?
- It reaches a maximum length of about 40 cm.
Explore the Emperor angelfish in 3D in the interactive atlas →