The Majestic Angelfish (Pomacanthus navarchus), also known as the Blue-girdled Angelfish, is a stunning marine species celebrated for its vibrant coloration and graceful presence. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, it is a prized addition among experienced marine aquarists.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: Yes
• Small invert safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Coral safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Minimum tank size: 680 liters (180 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 30 cm (11.8 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous, primarily feeding on sponges and tunicates; may also accept mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and high-quality angelfish preparations.
• Be aware of: May nip at corals and clam mantles; requires a well-established tank with ample live rock for grazing and hiding; can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards similar species.
Appearance and Coloration
The Majestic Angelfish is distinguished by its striking appearance:
• Body: A vibrant yellow base color adorned with a prominent blue band, or “girdle,” that covers the face and extends backward, highlighted with neon blue margins.
• Fins: Dorsal and anal fins are dark blue with bright blue margins, while the caudal fin is yellow.
This combination of colors and patterns makes the Majestic Angelfish a visually captivating species.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, Majestic Angelfish are found in coral-rich lagoons, channels, and protected outer reef slopes at depths ranging from 10 to 40 meters. They are typically observed solitary or in pairs, feeding primarily on sponges and tunicates among the coral reefs.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Majestic Angelfish in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 180-gallon (680 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide sufficient space for swimming and territory establishment.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 23°C – 27°C (73°F – 81°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping: Incorporate ample live rock to create hiding spots and grazing areas, mimicking their natural reef habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable.
• Water Movement: Moderate flow to simulate their natural environment.
Maintaining stable water conditions and high water quality is crucial for their health. A mature, well-established aquarium with abundant live rock will support their natural grazing behavior and provide necessary shelter.
Diet and Feeding
Majestic Angelfish are omnivorous, with a diet that includes both plant and animal matter:
• Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of:
• Marine algae and spirulina
• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• High-quality angelfish preparations containing sponge matter
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts multiple times daily to meet their nutritional needs.
Providing ample live rock will allow natural grazing behavior, which is beneficial for their health and well-being. Initially, they may be shy and reluctant to eat; offering live or frozen foods can encourage feeding until they become accustomed to prepared foods.
Compatibility and Social Structure
Majestic Angelfish can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards conspecifics and similar species:
• Social Structure: Best kept singly unless in a very large aquarium where multiple individuals can establish territories.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful towards other species but may become aggressive towards similar-looking fish.
• Compatible Tank Mates: Suitable companions include peaceful community fish such as gobies, blennies, and wrasses. Caution is advised when housing with other angelfish or species with similar coloration.
Observing their interactions and providing ample space can help mitigate aggressive behaviors. Due to their territorial nature, they should be housed with non-aggressive tank mates to prevent stress.
Important Considerations
• Reef Compatibility: While often considered reef-safe, individual specimens may nip at corals and clam mantles. Monitoring their behavior is essential, especially in reef setups.
• Acclimation: They may be shy upon introduction but typically become more confident over time.
• Health: Ensure a varied diet and stable water conditions to prevent common health issues.
With proper care and attention to their specific needs, Majestic Angelfish can be a vibrant and rewarding addition to a marine aquarium.