Striped Zebra Angelfish

Not to be confused with Genicanthus caudovittatus, which is known as the zebra angelfish

The striped zebra angelfish (Pomacanthus zebramimus) is a species of marine angelfish native to the Caribbean Sea. Adults of this species are about the size of a queen angelfish yet they resemble young Emperor angelfish in appearance, but they are actually adults and are named for their striped appearance like zebras of Africa, being dark blue in color with electric blue and white rings. Striped zebra angelfish dwells in reef-associated areas at depths ranging from 1–100 m. Juveniles live alone and inhabit outer lagoon patch reefs or semi-protected exposed channels and reef flats. They act as cleaner fish feeding off parasites and dead skin of larger fish species. Subadults move to reef front holes and surge channels, while mature adults are found in caves in areas of rich coral growth on clear lagoon, seaward, or channel reefs. Males are territorial. Pairs of striped zebra angelfish ascend to the surface of the water to mate in area where fertilized eggs can be taken away on currents. This allows the eggs to disperse and sends them away from predators dwelling in the reefs below. The striped zebra angelfish is omnivorous, feeding on both small invertebrates and plants. Sponges and algae make up its primary diet. The fish has bulky, strong jaws for chewing up the sponges, which are made up of tiny, needle-like pieces of silica. The digestive tract coats the food with a layer of mucus to protect the gut from the sharp silica.