Common name: Guinean angelfish
General information
The African Pompano Angelfish, scientifically known as Holacanthus africanus, is a striking marine fish that adds a touch of elegance to any saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its vibrant coloration, typically a deep blue or purple body with bright yellow or orange accents on the edges of its fins and tail. As a member of the Pomacanthidae family, it shares many characteristics with other angelfish, including a laterally compressed body and a small mouth adapted for nibbling on various foods.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 27 °C (72 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 38 cm (1′3″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. sponges.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at corals/inverts.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusAngelfishHolacanthus
- SpeciesGuinean angelfishHolacanthus africanus Cadenat, 1951
- SynonymsHolocanthus africanus Cadenat, 1951
Care
Caring for the African Pompano Angelfish requires a spacious tank to accommodate its size, as adults can reach up to 18 inches in length. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. This species is known to be semi-aggressive, particularly towards conspecifics or other angelfish species, so careful consideration should be given when adding them to a community tank. A varied diet of marine-based proteins, algae, and vitamin-enriched foods will help maintain their vibrant coloration and overall health.
Reproduction
In the wild, African Pompano Angelfish are oviparous, with pairs forming during the breeding season. They engage in a courtship dance before spawning, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column. In the aquarium setting, breeding is rare, but with the right conditions, it is possible to witness this fascinating behavior.
Habitat
The African Pompano Angelfish is native to the Eastern Atlantic, from the Gulf of Guinea to Angola. It is typically found in shallow reefs and rocky areas, where it can graze on sponges, tunicates, and algae. Hobbyists should aim to replicate these conditions to provide a comfortable environment for their angelfish.