Common name: Blue ring angelfish

Scientific name: Pomacanthus annularis (Bloch, 1787)
Annularis Angelfish (Pomacanthus annularis) , coral fish,
Blue ring angelfish, Pomacanthus annularis in tropical coral reef Blue ring angelfish (Pomacanthus annularis).

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

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Angelfishes
    Pomacanthidae
  6. Genus
    Angelfish
    Pomacanthus
  7. Species
    Blue ring angelfish
    Pomacanthus annularis (Bloch, 1787)
  8. Synonyms
    Chaetodon annularis Bloch, 1787
    Chaetodon vorticosus Gronow in Gray, 1854
    Holacanthus pseudannularis Bleeker, 1858
    Pomacanthodes 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.