Common name: Majestic Angelfish

General Information

The Majestic Angelfish, scientifically known as Pomacanthus navarchus, is a stunning marine fish admired for its vibrant coloration and regal appearance. This species is a popular choice among experienced aquarists due to its striking blue and yellow hues and its graceful swimming patterns. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, the Majestic Angelfish is often found in coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes.

In the aquarium trade, the Majestic Angelfish is highly sought after for its beauty and relatively peaceful demeanor compared to other large angelfish. However, its care requirements and potential size make it more suitable for advanced hobbyists with spacious tanks.

Care

Majestic Angelfish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They thrive in tanks that are at least 500 liters (about 130 gallons) to accommodate their size and swimming needs. The tank should have stable water parameters, with a focus on maintaining high water quality to prevent stress and disease.

These angelfish are known for their tendency to nip at corals and sessile invertebrates, so they are not considered reef-safe. Providing a varied diet rich in marine algae, sponges, and high-quality angelfish preparations can help satisfy their nutritional needs and reduce coral nipping.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Majestic Angelfish primarily feed on sponges and tunicates. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet that includes marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and specially formulated angelfish foods. Feeding should occur 2-3 times daily to ensure they receive adequate nutrition.

Behavior and Compatibility

Majestic Angelfish are generally peaceful but can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards other angelfish. They are best kept as the only large angelfish in the tank unless the aquarium is exceptionally large. They can coexist with a variety of other fish species, provided there is ample space and hiding spots.

Health and Common Issues

Majestic Angelfish can live up to 15 years in captivity with proper care. They are susceptible to common marine diseases such as ich and marine velvet, so maintaining excellent water quality and a stress-free environment is crucial. Regular observation for signs of illness and prompt treatment can help ensure their longevity.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Majestic Angelfish includes coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes, where they are often seen swimming gracefully among the coral formations. They are distributed across the Indo-Pacific, from the Maldives and Sri Lanka to the Solomon Islands and Great Barrier Reef.