Common name: Bellus Angelfish

General Information

The Bellus Angelfish, scientifically known as Genicanthus bellus, is a strikingly beautiful species that captivates aquarists with its unique coloration and peaceful demeanor. Native to the deep waters of the Indo-Pacific region, this angelfish is a prized addition to many marine aquariums. Its name "bellus" aptly translates to "beautiful," reflecting its ornate appearance.

Unlike many other angelfish, the Bellus Angelfish is sexually dimorphic, meaning males and females exhibit different color patterns. Males typically display a more vibrant coloration with blue and yellow hues, while females are adorned with a more subtle grayish-blue body and a distinctive black stripe running along their sides.

Care

The Bellus Angelfish is well-suited for intermediate to advanced aquarists due to its specific care requirements. It thrives in large, well-established reef aquariums with plenty of swimming space and live rock for grazing. A tank of at least 400 liters is recommended to accommodate their active nature and territorial behavior.

To mimic their natural habitat, provide a tank with ample hiding spots and a variety of rock structures. This setup not only offers security but also encourages natural behaviors such as grazing and exploration.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Bellus Angelfish are primarily planktonivores, feeding on zooplankton and small invertebrates. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet that includes high-quality marine pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp. Supplementing their diet with spirulina and marine algae will ensure they receive all necessary nutrients.

Feed them small portions multiple times a day to mimic their natural feeding habits and maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Bellus Angelfish is known for its peaceful temperament, making it an excellent choice for community reef tanks. They are generally non-aggressive towards other fish, although males may exhibit territorial behavior towards other males of the same species.

These angelfish are reef-safe, posing little threat to corals and invertebrates, making them a popular choice for reef enthusiasts. However, it's important to monitor their interactions with other tank mates to ensure harmony within the aquarium.

Reproduction

Breeding Bellus Angelfish in captivity is challenging due to their specific environmental needs and spawning behaviors. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they can change sex from female to male if needed. In the wild, they form harems consisting of one male and several females.

Successful breeding requires a large tank with stable water conditions and a well-established social hierarchy. Observing their natural spawning behavior can be a rewarding experience for dedicated aquarists.

Health and Common Issues

Bellus Angelfish are generally hardy but can be susceptible to common marine diseases such as ich and marine velvet. Maintaining optimal water quality and a balanced diet is crucial to preventing these issues.

When selecting a Bellus Angelfish, look for individuals with clear eyes, vibrant coloration, and active swimming behavior. Regular health checks and quarantine procedures for new additions can help maintain a healthy aquarium environment.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Bellus Angelfish includes deep reef slopes and outer reef areas, typically at depths ranging from 20 to 60 meters. They are found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea.

These angelfish prefer environments with ample rock formations and moderate water flow, conditions that can be replicated in a well-designed home aquarium.