Common name: Cortez angelfish
General information
The Cortez Angelfish, scientifically known as Pomacanthus zonipectus, is a striking marine fish species admired for its vibrant coloration and bold patterns. It is characterized by its deep blue to purple body, accented with vertical white bands that can vary in number. Juveniles display a different coloration, with a predominantly yellow body and blue accents, which gradually transitions to the adult coloration as they mature.
This species is endemic to the Eastern Pacific region and is often found in rocky reefs and areas with abundant algae growth. The Cortez Angelfish is a member of the Pomacanthidae family, which is known for its members' beauty and complexity in care.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 500 liter (130 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 40 cm (1′4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Needs large tank and varied diet
- Diet
- Omnivore Enjoys mysis, spirulina, and nori
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at clam mantles and corals
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially when mature
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusAngelfishPomacanthus
- SpeciesCortez angelfishPomacanthus zonipectus (Gill, 1862)
- SynonymsPomacanthodes zonipectus Gill, 1862
Care
Cortez Angelfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places to thrive. They are known to be somewhat territorial and may show aggression towards other angelfish or similarly shaped fish. It is essential to provide a varied diet that includes marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other high-quality angelfish preparations to maintain their health and coloration.
Due to their size and territorial nature, they are best suited for larger aquariums where they can establish their territory without causing stress to other inhabitants. They are not considered reef-safe as they may nip at stony and soft corals, as well as clams and other sessile invertebrates.
Reproduction
In the wild, Cortez 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. The larvae are planktonic and will settle into the reef after several weeks of development.
Breeding in captivity is rare and presents significant challenges due to the need for large, stable aquarium systems and the difficulty in raising the planktonic larvae.
Habitat
Cortez Angelfish are typically found in the tropical Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands. They inhabit depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters, often in areas with strong currents and high water clarity. Their natural habitat includes rocky outcrops, reef ledges, and areas with abundant algae growth.