Sixbar Angelfish

Pomacanthus sexstriatus

The sixbar angelfish (Pomacanthus sexstriatus) is a large, impressive angelfish reaching up to 46 cm in length. Adults display a dark grey to brownish body with six bold white vertical bars, a yellow or cream-colored caudal fin, and a distinctive network of pale spots on the rear body. The face features blue markings around the eyes and operculum. Juveniles are dramatically different, with a dark body adorned with curving white and blue lines, a pattern common to many Pomacanthus angelfish that prevents territorial aggression from adults. This species inhabits coral reefs, lagoons, and reef slopes throughout the western Pacific, from Indonesia and the Philippines to Australia and Fiji. It is typically found in pairs around coral-rich areas with caves and overhangs, feeding on sponges, tunicates, algae, and occasionally coral polyps. Adults are somewhat wary of divers but can be approached with patience. Their bold barred pattern and large size make them a memorable sighting, particularly on Southeast Asian reef dives.