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Gray Angelfish (Pomacanthus arcuatus) photographed underwater

Gray Angelfish in Cozumel

Gray Angelfish (Pomacanthus arcuatus) in Cozumel: how to identify it, where it is reliably seen, and what it is commonly confused with.

A large, pale grey disc with a squared-off tail edged in white, and a distinctly pale inner mouth. Bigger and plainer than the French angelfish it is usually confused with.

Quick ID

Scientific namePomacanthus arcuatus
GroupColourful Reef Fish
Typical size30–50 cm
Depth range3–30 m
When to see itYear-round
ActiveDaytime
Conservation statusLeast Concern
Notes—

Where You Will See It In Cozumel

Gray Angelfish works the 9 to 98 foot band. On this island that means the sheltered west-coast reefs, and the shallow east-side entries when the sea is flat — these are the sites where the depth and the habitat line up for it.

Without a boat. It is worth looking for at Playa Corona, Punta Morena and Tikkila Shallow — all shore entries, so you dive them on your own schedule.

On an ordinary beginner boat dive. It should be within reach at Casa Blanca, Chankanaab Bolones, Columbia Shallows, El Cielo and La Francesa. No advanced certification needed.

Deeper, and on the walls. It is also plausible on C-53 Wreck, Cantarel (Eagle Ray Wall), Chun-Chacaab and Colombia Deep.

Conditions change the odds more than the site does — the current, the time of day and how much the group has already stirred up the sand. Ask your guide what they have been seeing that week.

Behaviour

Sponge and algae feeders, usually paired, slower and less inquisitive than the French angelfish.

Commonly Confused With

  • French angelfish — The French is near-black with yellow-rimmed scales; the gray is uniformly pale with a white-edged tail.

Diving Etiquette And Safety

Nothing required.

Part of the Cozumel marine life guide · see Cozumel dive sites · plan your Cozumel dive trip

Photo: Zygy, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Gray Angelfish Photos

Juvenile gray angelfish (Pomacanthus arcuatus) on a Cozumel reef, black with yellow bars — the pattern it loses as an adult. Photo © Sydney Hoerler, courtesy of the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program, used with permission
the pattern it loses as an adult. Photo © Sydney Hoerler, courtesy of the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program, used with permission

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you tell a gray angelfish from a French angelfish?
The gray is pale overall with a white-edged square tail and a pale mouth; the French is near-black with yellow scale rims.
How big do they get?
Commonly 30 to 50 cm — larger than most French angelfish.
Where do you see them?
Las Palmas, Villa Blanca and Tormentos.
Do they pair up?
Yes, they are usually seen in twos.
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