Angelfish Asfur (Pomacanthus Asfur)
Asfur Angelfish (Pomacanthus asfur)
The Asfur Angelfish, also known as the Arabian Angelfish, is a magnificent and highly prized species from the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. It is famous for its deep blue-to-purple body, which is dramatically contrasted by a large, bright yellow crescent-shaped band on its midsection. Its long, flowing dorsal and anal fins, along with a vibrant yellow tail, make it one of the most elegant and sought-after large angelfish in the international trade.
Key Information
-
Common Name: Asfur Angelfish, Arabian Angelfish
-
Scientific Name: Pomacanthus asfur
-
Origin: Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean
-
Max Size: 35–40 cm
-
Lifespan: 15–20+ years
-
Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial with other large angels
-
Diet: Omnivore – specialized marine sponge-based frozen foods, marine algae, mysis shrimp, and high-quality pellets
-
Care Level: Moderate (Requires large systems and specific diet)
Water Parameters
Temperature: 23–27°C
pH: 8.1–8.4
Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025
Minimum Tank Size: 680L+ (180 Gallons+)
Behaviour & Tank Compatibility
The Asfur Angelfish is a shy species when first introduced but becomes a dominant "patrolling" presence once established. It is known to be more territorial and aggressive than its close relative, the Maculosus Angelfish, especially toward other large angelfish. It is not reef-safe, as it will naturally graze on sponges, tunicates, and both stony and soft corals. Ideal tank mates include large, robust species such as Tangs, larger Wrasses, and Triggerfish that inhabit the upper water column.
Ideal Tank Setup
-
A very large aquarium with a long horizontal swimming path is essential for its health and development.
-
Plentiful live rock arranged to create large caves and tunnels, providing the security this species needs to overcome its initial shyness.
-
High-efficiency protein skimming and powerful filtration to manage the bioload and maintain pristine water quality.
-
An established system with some natural algae and sponge growth to support its natural foraging instincts.
Why Choose the Asfur Angelfish?
The Asfur Angelfish is a true "prestige" species for the large marine aquarium. Its color combination of deep indigo and bright yellow is unparalleled in its intensity. For the dedicated hobbyist with a large-scale fish-only system (FOWLR), the Asfur offers a combination of striking beauty, longevity, and a bold, interactive personality that makes it the definitive focal point of any Red Sea-themed display.
Description
Asfur Angelfish (Pomacanthus asfur)
The Asfur Angelfish, also known as the Arabian Angelfish, is a magnificent and highly prized species from the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. It is famous for its deep blue-to-purple body, which is dramatically contrasted by a large, bright yellow crescent-shaped band on its midsection. Its long, flowing dorsal and anal fins, along with a vibrant yellow tail, make it one of the most elegant and sought-after large angelfish in the international trade.
Key Information
-
Common Name: Asfur Angelfish, Arabian Angelfish
-
Scientific Name: Pomacanthus asfur
-
Origin: Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean
-
Max Size: 35–40 cm
-
Lifespan: 15–20+ years
-
Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial with other large angels
-
Diet: Omnivore – specialized marine sponge-based frozen foods, marine algae, mysis shrimp, and high-quality pellets
-
Care Level: Moderate (Requires large systems and specific diet)
Water Parameters
Temperature: 23–27°C
pH: 8.1–8.4
Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025
Minimum Tank Size: 680L+ (180 Gallons+)
Behaviour & Tank Compatibility
The Asfur Angelfish is a shy species when first introduced but becomes a dominant "patrolling" presence once established. It is known to be more territorial and aggressive than its close relative, the Maculosus Angelfish, especially toward other large angelfish. It is not reef-safe, as it will naturally graze on sponges, tunicates, and both stony and soft corals. Ideal tank mates include large, robust species such as Tangs, larger Wrasses, and Triggerfish that inhabit the upper water column.
Ideal Tank Setup
-
A very large aquarium with a long horizontal swimming path is essential for its health and development.
-
Plentiful live rock arranged to create large caves and tunnels, providing the security this species needs to overcome its initial shyness.
-
High-efficiency protein skimming and powerful filtration to manage the bioload and maintain pristine water quality.
-
An established system with some natural algae and sponge growth to support its natural foraging instincts.
Why Choose the Asfur Angelfish?
The Asfur Angelfish is a true "prestige" species for the large marine aquarium. Its color combination of deep indigo and bright yellow is unparalleled in its intensity. For the dedicated hobbyist with a large-scale fish-only system (FOWLR), the Asfur offers a combination of striking beauty, longevity, and a bold, interactive personality that makes it the definitive focal point of any Red Sea-themed display.
