Chaetodontoplus melanosoma (Bleeker, 1853)
Black-velvet angelfish
Adlo,  Alibang-bang,  Pata
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Pomacanthidae (Angelfishes)
Max. size:  20 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 5 - 30 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Indo-West Pacific: Indo-Malayan region and New Guinea , northward to southern Japan.
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 13-13; Dorsal soft rays (total): 17-19; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 17-18. Description: Head and dorsal half of body light grey, ventral black; forehead yellow with pattern maze of bluish streaks; fins dorsal, anal and caudal black, margin yellow. Body depth 1.7-2.0 in SL. Scales longitudinal series about 100 (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  An uncommon species that inhabits coastal reefs and drop-offs (Ref. 9710) that are exposed to strong tidal currents (Ref. 48636). Juveniles on deep rubble slopes with rich invertebrate growth. Feeds on sponges and tunicates. Solitary or in pairs. Frequently 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
Country info:  Recorded from Lanuza Bay (Ref. 104756). Also Ref. 43239.


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