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The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.

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Common name: goldspotted angelfish

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Allen et al. (1998) describe adult Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus as being overall brownish in color with golden scale centers giving the appearance of spots. The dorsal, anal, and caudal fins are black. The lips are blue and there are dark ocelli on the forehead and behind the gill cover. The elongate gill cover spine is also light blue. Juveniles are yellow with irregular vertical gray lines on the body while the outer part of the anal fin and the middle of the caudal fin is black (Randall 2005). There is a large black spot on the back that extends into the soft dorsal fin and a narrow black bar through the eye (Randall 2005).

Size: This species attains a total length of 25 cm (Randall 2005).

Native Range: Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus is native to a small number of island groups in the Central Pacific including the Caroline, Gilbert, Phoenix, and Line Islands (Allen et al. 1998).

Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Ecology: This diurnal species is typically found in clear waters on well-developed coral reefs (Randall 2005) as well as channels connecting coral reefs to lagoons (Allen et al. 1998). It occurs at depths from 3-40 m and is usually solitary or in small groups (Allen et al. 1998). Similar to other species of angelfish, the primary diet is sponges and tunicates and supplemented by algae (Randall 2005). Species in this family that have been studied are protogynous hermaphrodites, starting life female and later changing sex into a male (Randall 2005).

Means of Introduction: Intentionally introduced in O’ahu, Hawaii, by an aquarium fish importer (Mundy 2005).

Status: Not thought to be established in Hawaii (Mundy 2005).

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: Allen (1979) reports that this species is unknown in the aquarium hobby, however 26 years later Randall (2005) remarked that this is a prized aquarium fish.

References: (click for full references)

Allen, G.R. 1979. Butterfly and angelfishes of the world, volume 2. Wiley-Interscience Publication, John Wiley and Sons, New York.

Allen, G.R., R. Steene, and M. Allen.1998. A guide to angelfishes and butterflyfishes. Odyssey Publishing/Tropical Reef Research, Perth, WA.

Mundy, B.C. 2005. Checklist of the fishes of the Hawaiian archipelago. Bishop Museum Press, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Randall, J.E. 2005. Reef and shore fishes of the South Pacific. New Caledonia to Tahiti and the Pitcairn Islands. University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu, Hawaii.

Other Resources:

Author: Brown, M.

Peer Review Date: 1/1/1900

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.