Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus Burgess, 1973
Goldspotted angelfish
Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus
photo by Tanaka, H.

Family:  Pomacanthidae (Angelfishes)
Max. size:  25 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 3 - 8 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Pacific Ocean: Gilbert Islands to the Line islands. Reported from Kapingamarangi Atoll (eastern Caroline Islands), Nauru, Canton (Phoenix Islands), Howland, Baker, and Fanning (Line Islands) Atolls.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 14-14; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17-18; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 17-19. Body brownish yellow with numerous bright lemon yellow spots; head yellow, the snout purplish, forehead with a black spot about equal to eye diameter; the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins black with bright blue margin.
Biology:  Encountered in channels and outer reef slopes (Ref. 1602), and drop offs at depths of 10-65 m. Feeds on sponges and tunicates. Solitary, pairs or in small groups. Occasionally exported through the aquarium trade (Ref. 48391).
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 08 October 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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