VU

Clarion Angelfish

Holacanthus clarionensis

Stable

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Clarion angelfish faces severe threats from its extremely limited range around the Revillagigedo Islands, making the entire population vulnerable to localized disturbances. Overfishing and collection for the aquarium trade pose significant pressures, as this species commands high prices due to its rarity and striking appearance. Climate change-induced coral bleaching and ocean acidification threaten the rocky reef habitats essential for the species' survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

The Clarion angelfish inhabits rocky reefs and coral formations in tropical marine waters around the Revillagigedo Islands off Mexico's Pacific coast. This endemic species typically occurs at depths of 3-60 meters in areas with abundant coral growth and rocky substrates that provide shelter and feeding opportunities.

Rocky areas· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protection

Other threatened species in POMACANTHIDAE

EN

Chaetodontoplus vanderloosi

Declining

Threatened in France

VU

Lepiota echinella

Unknown
VU

Copper Shark

Carcharhinus brachyurus

Declining
EN

Lyophyllum deliberatum

Unknown
VU

Large Tree-chernes

Dendrochernes cyrneus

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Clarion Angelfish classified as Vulnerable?
Clarion Angelfish is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Clarion angelfish faces severe threats from its extremely limited range around the Revillagigedo Islands, making the entire population vulnerable to localized disturbances. Overfishing and collection for the aquarium trade pose significant pressures, as this species commands high prices due to its rarity and striking appearance. Climate change-induced coral bleaching and ocean acidification threaten the rocky reef habitats essential for the species' survival.
Where does Clarion Angelfish live?
Clarion Angelfish occurs in France, and Mexico. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Clarion Angelfish?
The main threats to Clarion Angelfish are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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