Common name: Blue ring angelfish
General information
The Blue Ring Angelfish, scientifically known as Pomacanthus annularis, is a stunning marine fish that captivates aquarists with its vibrant blue and yellow coloration. This species is often sought after for its majestic appearance and the dynamic presence it brings to a saltwater aquarium.
Juvenile Blue Ring Angelfish exhibit a striking blue and white striped pattern, which gradually transforms into a more subdued blue and yellow palette as they mature. The transition from juvenile to adult coloration is a fascinating process that can be observed by aquarists who raise them from a young age.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 500 liter (130 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 45 cm (1′6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs large tank and varied diet
- Diet
- Omnivore Enjoys mysis, spirulina, and marine algae
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at corals and clams
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially when mature
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusAngelfishPomacanthus
- SpeciesBlue ring angelfishPomacanthus annularis (Bloch, 1787)
- SynonymsChaetodon annularis Bloch, 1787Chaetodon vorticosus Gronow in Gray, 1854Holacanthus pseudannularis Bleeker, 1858Pomacanthodes annularis (Bloch, 1787)
Care
Caring for Blue Ring Angelfish requires a spacious aquarium due to their potential adult size, which can reach up to 45 centimeters (18 inches). They thrive in well-established tanks with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. A varied diet is crucial for their health, including marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other high-quality prepared angelfish foods.
It's important to note that while they are generally peaceful, they can become territorial, especially towards conspecifics or similar-looking species. Therefore, careful consideration should be given when adding them to a community tank.
Reproduction
In the wild, Blue Ring Angelfish are known to form monogamous pairs during the breeding season. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. While breeding them in captivity is challenging, it is not impossible for experienced aquarists with the right conditions.
Symbiosis
While not known for specific symbiotic relationships like clownfish with anemones, Blue Ring Angelfish do play a role in the reef ecosystem by controlling algae growth and participating in the cleaning stations where cleaner wrasses and shrimps remove parasites from them.
Habitat
The natural habitat of the Blue Ring Angelfish spans across the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the western Pacific Ocean. They are typically found in coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reefs, often at depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters.
Their preference for complex reef structures makes them an excellent ambassador for promoting reef conservation and the importance of maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems in both the wild and in home aquariums.