Genicanthus caudovittatus (Günther, 1860)
Zebra angelfish
Genicanthus caudovittatus
photo by Randall, J.E.

Family:  Pomacanthidae (Angelfishes)
Max. size:  20 cm TL (male/unsexed)
Environment:  reef-associated; marine; depth range 2 - 70 m, non-migratory
Distribution:  Western Indian Ocean: Red Sea south to Natal, South Africa (Ref. 11228), including Maldives, Madagascar, Reunion, and Mauritius (Ref. 33390).
Diagnosis:  Dorsal spines (total): 15-15; Dorsal soft rays (total): 15-17; Anal spines: 3-3; Anal soft rays: 17-19. Description: Males recognized by the zebra-like stripes and black streak along the base of the dorsal fin. Females grey with black streaks along the caudal fin (Ref. 48636). Body depth 1.9-2.2 in SL. Scales longitudinal series 45-47 (Ref. 90102).
Biology:  Inhabits shallow waters in the Red Sea; deeper in the Andaman Sea, usually at depths of 40 m or more. Caudal fin tips very long (Ref. 48636). A single male is usually seen with several females, commonly on steep slopes. Feeds on planktonic food several meters above the bottom.
IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC); Date assessed: 08 October 2009 Ref. (130435)
Threat to humans:  harmless


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