Angels, Large
Large Angels, also known as Angelfish, are a stunning and diverse group of marine fish that are popular in the reefkeeping hobby due to their striking colors and patterns. These fish belong to the family Pomacanthidae and are known for their laterally compressed bodies and elongated dorsal and anal fins. Some of the most well-known species include the Pomacanthus imperator, Holacanthus ciliaris, and Pomacanthus xanthometopon.
Large Angels are typically found in tropical and subtropical waters, often around coral reefs where they can find plenty of hiding spots and food sources. In the wild, their diet consists of sponges, tunicates, algae, and small invertebrates. In captivity, they require a varied diet that includes high-quality marine pellets, frozen foods, and fresh seaweed to ensure they receive all necessary nutrients.
These fish can grow quite large, often reaching sizes of 25-40 cm (10-15 inches) or more, so they require spacious aquariums with plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 600 liter (160 gallons) is recommended for most large angelfish species. Additionally, they can be territorial and may not get along with other angelfish or similarly shaped fish, so careful consideration must be given to tank mates.
Large Angels are generally not considered reef-safe as they may nip at or eat corals and invertebrates. However, some hobbyists have had success keeping them in reef tanks with caution and close monitoring. It's important to provide plenty of hiding places and a well-established environment to help reduce stress and aggression.
Overall, Large Angels are a rewarding and visually impressive addition to any large marine aquarium, but they do require specific care and attention to thrive.
- Common name: Bandit AngelfishScientific name: Apolemichthys arcuatus
- Common name: Armitage's AngelfishScientific name: Apolemichthys armitagei
- Common name: Griffis angelfishScientific name: Apolemichthys griffisi
- Common name: Reunion AngelfishScientific name: Apolemichthys guezei
- Common name: Tiger angelfishScientific name: Apolemichthys kingi
- Common name: FlagfishScientific name: Apolemichthys trimaculatus
- Common name: Goldspotted angelfishScientific name: Apolemichthys xanthopunctatus
- Common name: Yellow-ear AngelfishScientific name: Apolemichthys xanthotis
- Common name: Yellowtail AngelfishScientific name: Apolemichthys xanthurus
- Common name: Ballina angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus ballinae
- Common name: Bluespotted angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus caeruleopunctatus
- Common name: Orangeface angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus chrysocephalus
- Common name: Conspicuous angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus conspicillatus
- Common name: Scribbled angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus duboulayi
- Common name: Black-velvet angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus melanosoma
- Common name: Vermiculated angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus mesoleucus
- Common name: Black angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus niger
- Common name: Yellowtail angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus personifer
- Common name: Bluestriped angelfishScientific name: Chaetodontoplus septentrionalis
- Common name: Zebra angelfishScientific name: Genicanthus caudovittatus
- Common name: Lamark's angelfishScientific name: Genicanthus lamarck
- Common name: Swallowtail angelfishScientific name: Genicanthus melanospilos
- Common name: Masked angelfishScientific name: Genicanthus personatus
- Common name: Halfbanded angelfishScientific name: Genicanthus semicinctus
- Common name: Japanese SwallowScientific name: Genicanthus semifasciatus
- Common name: Pitcairn angelfishScientific name: Genicanthus spinus
- Common name: Guinean angelfishScientific name: Holacanthus africanus
- Common name: AngelfishScientific name: Holacanthus bermudensis
- Common name: AngelfishScientific name: Holacanthus ciliaris
- Common name: King angelfishScientific name: Holacanthus passer
- Common name: rock beautyScientific name: Holacanthus tricolor
- Common name: Sailfin dottybackScientific name: Oxycercichthys veliferus
- Common name: Blue ring angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus annularis
- Common name: Pot coverScientific name: Pomacanthus arcuatus
- Common name: Arabian angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus asfur
- Common name: Goldtail angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus chrysurus
- Common name: emperor angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus imperator
- Common name: Yellow-marked angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus maculosus
- Common name: bluegirdled angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus navarchus
- Common name: French angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus paru
- Common name: old womanScientific name: Pomacanthus rhomboides
- Common name: Semicircle angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus semicirculatus
- Common name: Six-banded angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus sexstriatus
- Common name: Blueface angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus xanthometopon
- Common name: Cortez angelfishScientific name: Pomacanthus zonipectus
- Common name: Bluebanded angelfishScientific name: Pygoplites diacanthus