Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Territorial

They exhibit a bold, dominant, and semi-aggressive temperament as they mature. They will quickly establish themselves as the definitive ruler of the aquarium. Despite their aggression towards other angels, they often interact intelligently with their owners.

Diet

Omnivore

They are omnivores requiring a highly specialized diet rich in marine sponges. Formulated angelfish preparations containing sponge material are completely essential for their long-term survival. Supplement with nori, spirulina, and high-quality meaty foods like mysis shrimp.

Sex ratio

Solitary

They should strictly be kept as a single specimen per aquarium. Adding two males, or even two females, will almost certainly result in lethal combat. They demand vast territories and will not share space with conspecifics.

Feeding frequency

TWO_THREE_DAILY

Adults should be fed generously two to three times a day. Grazing opportunities on live rock should be available between their scheduled meals. Juveniles may need up to four smaller meals daily to develop properly.

Bioload

The Blue angelfish creates a significantly high bioload due to its large size. Heavy filtration and an oversized protein skimmer are strongly advised. Frequent, substantial water changes are necessary to keep nitrates very low.

Flow

Strong

They prefer moderate to strong water currents across their large swimming areas. Excellent water movement ensures high oxygenation required for such a massive fish. It also helps rapidly export the large amount of waste they produce.

Jump risk

No

Reproduction

Oviparous

Captive breeding is entirely unheard of within standard home aquaria. They are broadcast spawners that release their gametes high in the open water column. The specific larval dietary requirements make rearing them virtually impossible at home.

Compatibility & tankmates

Reef safe

It can be highly aggressive towards other large angelfish and similarly shaped species. It is definitely not considered reef safe, as it will decimate stony and soft corals. Keep it in a large fish-only system with other robust, semi-aggressive companions.

Tank level

All levels

They utilize all levels of the aquarium, frequently patrolling from top to bottom. They require massive amounts of open swimming space to prevent psychological stress. Ample rockwork with large, accommodating caves should also be provided.