Common name: bluegirdled angelfish

Scientific name: Pomacanthus navarchus (Cuvier, 1831)
Blue-girdled angelfish (Pomacanthus navarchus)Majestic Angelfish (Pomacanthus navarchus).
pomacanthus navarchus, majestic angelfish, Fish swimming in the ocean, against a background of coralsMajestic Angelfish (Pomacanthus navarchus) in black background

General information

The Majestic Angelfish, scientifically known as Pomacanthus navarchus, is a vibrant and eye-catching species popular among aquarists. Its body is predominantly a deep blue to purple color, with a striking yellow to orange face and a distinctive blue girdle that runs across the dorsal fin and down the body, giving it the alternative name, Blue Girdled Angelfish.

This species is known for its graceful swimming and can grow to a size that commands attention in a home aquarium. It is a member of the Pomacanthidae family, which includes other well-known angelfish species.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
400 liter (110 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.026
Temperature
22 to 27 °C (72 to 81 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Average size
30 cm (1′)
Care level
Moderate to easy Needs a varied diet and hiding places.
Diet
Omnivore Enjoys mysis, spirulina, and marine algae.
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
Reefsafe
No May nip at stony and soft corals.
Aggression
Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially to conspecifics.
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
    bluegirdled angelfish
    Pomacanthus navarchus (Cuvier, 1831)
  8. Synonyms
    Arusetta navarchus (Cuvier in Cuvier & Valenciennes, 1831)
    Euxiphipops navarchus (Cuvier, 1831)
    Holacanthus amiralis Cuvier, 1829
    Holacanthus navarchus Cuvier, 1831
    Pomacanthodes navarchus (Cuvier, 1831)

Care

Majestic Angelfish require a large aquarium to accommodate their size and swimming needs, with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are omnivores, feeding on a variety of foods including algae, sponges, and tunicates in the wild. In captivity, a balanced diet of marine algae, high-quality angelfish preparations, mysis shrimp, and other meaty foods is essential for their health and coloration.

They can be territorial, especially towards conspecifics or similar-looking fish, so careful consideration should be given when adding them to a community tank. It's also important to note that they may nip at stony and soft corals, which can be a concern for reef tank enthusiasts.

Reproduction

In the wild, Majestic Angelfish are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic, drifting in the currents until they mature and settle onto the reef. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and not commonly achieved by hobbyists.

Habitat

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, Majestic Angelfish are found in coral-rich areas and clear lagoons, typically at depths ranging from 4 to 30 meters. They prefer complex reef structures with plenty of crevices and overhangs for shelter.

Their range extends from the eastern coast of Africa, across the Indian Ocean, to the western Pacific, including the Great Barrier Reef, Micronesia, and the Line Islands.