Common name: Angelfish

General information

The Blue Angelfish, scientifically known as Holacanthus bermudensis, is a vibrant and captivating species popular among marine aquarists. This species is renowned for its striking blue and yellow coloration, with a distinctive pattern that includes a dark spot on the forehead which fades as the fish matures. The Blue Angelfish is often confused with the Queen Angelfish (Holacanthus ciliaris), but can be distinguished by its color pattern and less pronounced crown.

Care

Blue Angelfish require a spacious aquarium to accommodate their size, as they can grow up to 15 inches in length. They thrive in a well-established tank with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. These angelfish are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods including marine algae, mysis shrimp, and high-quality angelfish preparations containing sponges. It's important to provide a varied diet to ensure proper nutrition and health.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blue Angelfish form monogamous pairs during breeding. They are known to be broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic and will settle to the reef after several weeks. Breeding in captivity is challenging and not commonly achieved by hobbyists.

Habitat

Blue Angelfish are found in the Western Atlantic, from Bermuda to the Bahamas, and throughout the Caribbean. They inhabit coral reefs and rocky areas, typically at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 70 meters. In the aquarium, they require similar reef-like conditions with ample space to swim and explore.