Angelfish

Angelfish are some of the best tropical marine fish available to hobbyists. In fact, it is difficult to imagine a saltwater aquarium, without at least one of these magnificent animals.

Large Angelfish are the royalty of the marine aquarium because of their spectacular color and showy personalities. Living among coral reefs worldwide, Angelfish is found in an array of colors and sizes, some species reaching lengths of 2 feet! Interestingly, several species have a completely different coloration and patterns in juvenile and adult forms.

One thing they all share is a thorn in the bottom of their diaphragm which can be used as a weapon. In their natural habitat they can usually be found in two to harems consisting of one male and several females. Angelfish feed primarily on algae, sponges and other tiny plants and animal life found among the coral outcrops.

In the home aquarium, large angels need large tanks with excellent water quality and lots of rocks and caves. They particularly appreciate a rock configuration and feed on algae and the flora and fauna.

They accept all types of high quality foods including meat shrimp mysis, brine shrimp and shellfish, but their diet should be primarily based on plant materials such as sheets of seaweed (nori), lettuce and preparations Specially formulated Angelfish.

It is best to keep only one Grand Angel by aquarium unless you have a very significant and keep Angels who are dissimilar in appearance and size. Otherwise, it will be constant bickering and stressful environment for all.

Large Angelfish Breeding in captivity is rarely accomplished. These fish are hermaphrodites, all are born to females with the dominant fish changing sex to men. It is quite difficult to differentiate between the sexes than by visual observation alone.

Spawning takes place when a male and female release sperm and eggs in the water column above the reef. The tiny larvae which are formed to pass through several stages of development are complex and extremely difficult to nurture and care.