Care
The Asfur Angelfish is known from semi-protected inshore reefs with rich soft and hard coral growth, to depths of 30m (98ft). Here these impressive, semi-aggressive fish are found singly or in male-female pairs, feeding primarily on tunicates and sponges. Although the Asfur Angelfish is a large-growing and active species, it can be somewhat shy at times. The aquarium must be voluminous, mature, and contain plenty of live rockwork that is arranged to create a multitude of visual barriers and bolt holes, as well as a roomy swimming space along the front of the tank. In fact the more places to hide, the more you will see of your Asfur Angel; this is because the fish will gain confidence in knowing it can retreat out of sight quickly should it feel the need. Keep only one specimen per tank, and not with any other angelfish. The Asfur Angelfish is considered one of the more peaceful Pomacanthids, and it does best with similar tempered tankmates, although may harass very passive fish or newly introduced fish - for this reason, it should be the final addition to the tank. Unfortunately, Asfur Angels will nip at LPS corals, some soft corals such as
Xenia sp., and also clam mantles. However, most SPS corals and some of the more noxious soft corals are usually ignored, particularly if the fish is kept well fed. Filtration should be oversized, with highly efficient protein skimming and powerful circulation. As with many large angelfish species, the juvenile pattern is entirely different to that of the adult fish. Juveniles are a royal blue colour with pale blue and white lightly curved vertical stripes; whereas adults are a dark blue-grey/black with a dazzling yellow crescent shaped sash on each flank, along with a vivid yellow tail. As the fish mature, the tips of the dorsal and anal fin elongate into streamers that trail behind the fish as it swims. The body colour and pattern of adults are similar to that of the Halfmoon/Yellowbar/Red Sea Angelfish (
P. maculosus), but they are told apart by the Asfur Angelfish sporting a bright yellow tail (vs. white/colourless in
P. maculosus). May also be seen on sale as Arabian Angelfish or Crescent Angelfish.
Feeding
Must receive foods containing sponges, such as some of the frozen preparations for angelfish species, and natural fare found on live rock. Should also be offered Mysis shrimp, vitamin-enriched brineshrimp, chopped clam/mussel/cockle/prawn/squid, plus vegetable matter, marine algae, Nori, Spirulina etc. Feed small amounts several times per day.
Breeding
This species has not reproduced in the home aquarium, but there have been successful breedings on a commercial basis.
