The Queen Angelfish (Holacanthus ciliaris) is a vibrant marine species renowned for its striking appearance and regal demeanor. Native to the Western Atlantic Ocean, it is a favorite among marine aquarists and divers alike.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: yes
• Small invert safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Coral safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Minimum tank size: 950 liters (250 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 45 cm (18 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous, primarily feeding on sponges; also consumes tunicates, jellyfish, corals, plankton, and algae.
• Be aware of: May nip at stony and soft corals, as well as clam mantles; requires a spacious, well-established tank with ample hiding spots and live rock for grazing; can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards similar species.
Appearance and Coloration
The Queen Angelfish is celebrated for its dazzling coloration:
• Body: A brilliant blue-green hue adorned with yellow accents on the scales.
• Markings: A distinctive dark blue spot, resembling a crown, located on the forehead above the eyes, encircled by a vivid blue ring.
• Fins: Trailing dorsal and anal fins with blue and yellow highlights; a yellow tail.
Juveniles differ in appearance, typically displaying a blue body with yellow bands or vice versa. As they mature, their coloration transitions to the vibrant adult pattern.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, Queen Angelfish inhabit coral reefs in tropical and subtropical regions of the Western Atlantic Ocean, ranging from Florida and the Gulf of Mexico through the Caribbean Sea down to Brazil. They are benthic, residing at depths from shallow waters near the shore to about 70 meters. These fish are often observed either alone or in pairs and are known to form long-term breeding pairs.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Queen Angelfish in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 250-gallon (950 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide ample space for swimming and territory establishment.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 72°F – 78°F (22°C – 25.5°C)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping: Incorporate plenty of live rock to create hiding spots and grazing areas, mimicking their natural reef environment.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable.
• Water Movement: Moderate flow to simulate their natural habitat.
Maintaining stable water conditions and high water quality is crucial for their health.
Diet and Feeding
Queen Angelfish are omnivorous, with a strong preference for sponges:
• Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of:
• Sponges and tunicates (available in specialized angelfish preparations)
• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• High-quality marine algae and spirulina
• Feeding Frequency: Feed at least three times daily to meet their nutritional needs.
Providing a diet rich in marine sponges is essential, as they form a significant part of their natural diet.
Compatibility and Social Structure
Queen 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 tangs, wrasses, and larger clownfish. 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.
Important Considerations
• Reef Compatibility: Queen Angelfish are prone to nip at stony and soft corals, as well as 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, Queen Angelfish can be a vibrant and rewarding addition to a marine aquarium.