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Angelfish Enigma -
Is the Orange-faced Angelfish a Valid Species?

The orange-faced angelfish is the subject of taxonomic controversy. Photo by Tomonori Hirata

Have you ever wondered if the orange-faced angelfish (Chaetodontoplus chrysocephalus) is a true species? Some ichthyologists have! This uncommon angelfish is now thought to be either the male color form of the blue-lined angelfish (Chaetodontoplus septentrionalis), or a hybrid between two members of this genus.

In this Coral Realm Featured Genus article we will examine this question in detail. We will provide photographic evidence that may finally answer this angelfish enigma. This article includes six enlargable photos, including shots of possible hybrids and the rare orange-faced angelfish.

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