Common name: Clarion angelfish
General information
The Clarion Angelfish, Holacanthus clarionensis, is a vibrant marine fish known for its striking orange body and electric blue trim on the edges of its fins and tail. This species is endemic to the Eastern Pacific, particularly around the Clarion and Revillagigedo Islands. Due to its limited distribution and high demand among aquarists, it is considered a rare and prized specimen in the hobby.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 20 cm (8″)
- 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
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be territorial
- Captive bred
- Yes Rarely bred in captivity
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusAngelfishHolacanthus
- SpeciesClarion angelfishHolacanthus clarionensis Gilbert, 1890
Care
Clarion Angelfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of swimming room and hiding places among live rock. They are known to be somewhat territorial, so it's important to introduce them to the tank last to minimize aggression. A varied diet of meaty foods, spirulina, and high-quality angelfish preparations is essential for maintaining their vibrant coloration and health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Clarion Angelfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change to males as they mature. Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging, requiring expert care and a large, well-established system.
Habitat
Clarion Angelfish are found in subtropical waters, typically around rocky reefs and steep slopes. They prefer depths ranging from 3 to 30 meters, where they can be seen grazing on sponges and algae.
The species is native to a small range in the Eastern Pacific, with most sightings around the Revillagigedo Archipelago. Due to their limited range and the depth at which they reside, they are not commonly encountered in the wild.