Six Banded Angelfish

Pattaya Aquatic Life

Six Banded Angelfish Pattaya

Learn about Six Banded Angelfish Around Pattaya

The Six Banded Angelfish, also known as Pomacanthus sexstriatus, is a striking species of angelfish that inhabits the warm, tropical waters around Pattaya. Known for their vibrant coloration and bold stripes, these angelfish are a popular sight for divers exploring the region’s coral reefs. They play a vital role in the marine ecosystem, contributing to the health and diversity of the reef environments.

Where to Find Six Banded Angelfish in Pattaya

In Pattaya, Six Banded Angelfish can be spotted in several prime diving locations, including:

Koh Klung Badan: The coral reefs around Koh Klung Badan are home to a variety of marine life, including the Six Banded Angelfish.
Koh Larn South Point: Also known as Coral Island, Koh Larn’s rich coral formations make it an ideal habitat for these angelfish.
Koh Rin: Part of the Far Islands, Koh Rin offers proabley the highest population of Six Banded Angelfish that can be observed diving in Pattaya.

These dive sites provide excellent opportunities for scuba divers of all levels to encounter the Six Banded Angelfish in their natural environment.

How to Identify the Six Banded Angelfish

Identifying the Six Banded Angelfish is straightforward due to its distinct features:

Coloration: They have a beautiful yellow body with six vertical blue stripes running across it, giving them their name.
Size: These angelfish can grow up to 30 cm (about 12 inches) in length.
Fins: Their dorsal and anal fins are edged with blue, and their tail is yellow, which adds to their striking appearance.

Six Banded Angelfish Characteristics & Behaviour

Six Banded Angelfish exhibit several interesting characteristics and behaviors:

Diet: They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of sponges, tunicates, and algae. They play a crucial role in controlling algae growth on coral reefs.
Habitat Preference: These angelfish prefer coral-rich areas and are usually found at depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters (16 to 98 feet).
Social Behavior: Six Banded Angelfish are generally solitary or found in pairs. They are territorial and can be quite protective of their home range.

Interesting Facts About Six Banded Angelfish

Longevity: In the wild, Six Banded Angelfish can live up to 15 years, contributing long-term to the reef ecosystems.
Juvenile Transformation: Juvenile Six Banded Angelfish look different from adults, with fewer stripes and a more muted color palette. They undergo a dramatic transformation as they mature.
Cleaning Stations: They are sometimes seen at cleaning stations where smaller fish remove parasites from their bodies, demonstrating a mutualistic relationship within the reef community.

The Six Banded Angelfish is a captivating and essential part of Pattaya’s marine biodiversity. Their vibrant appearance and important ecological role make them a highlight for divers exploring the region’s underwater world.