Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Bellus Angelfish has a wide distribution across the Indo-West Pacific where it is found at depth of up to 300 feet (90m). Members of Genicanthus have the distinction among angelfish of being sexually dimorphic. Males have an iridescent pale white-mauve body with a yellow horizontal stripe through the middle of its body and across the dorsal side of its body, and bright blue-violet markings in its face. Females on the other hand have very bold body coloration of pale blue-white, violet and black! Genicanthus are the only true “reef safe” angelfish in the hobby because their diets are predominately made up of zooplankton rather than corals. This angelfish can be kept as a male-female pair, a male with several females or a group of females. While females tend to stay smaller, Bellus angels can reach a size of approximately 6″.
Diet Requirements: In the wild Genicanthus angelfish are zooplanktivores. While this specific food source can be a challenge to replicate in the home aquarium, Bellus angels will accept a wide variety of prepared foods. Offer a varied diet of high quality algae, pellets, flakes, and especially enriched frozen foods such as spirulina brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, calanus and angel specific mixes for best coloration, immune function and optimal health. Feedings should be multiple times a day for the first couple of weeks upon introduction until its settled in.
Care Requirements: A minimum 125 gallon aquarium with 12+ inch width is ideal for a single, large Bellus angel or a smaller pair. The aquarium will need to be upgraded accordingly for more individuals. Genicanthus angelfish are intolerable of nitrite or ammonia spikes. This angelfish enjoys some rock work and crevices to take refuge, but should be provided with ample open swimming space. The Bellus angel is rather non-confrontational with most tank-mates, including angelfish in other genera (Pomacanthus, Holocanthus, Centropyge), however note the relatively docile nature of the Bellus angel as to not mix it with more pugnacious angelfish that will certainly harass it. Compatability with other species within Genicanthus is variable; do not house more than one male in the same aquarium. Bellus angels, like all Genicanthus species, are hermaphrodites; the most dominant female over the course of time will likely change into a male. Bellus angels have been observed to occasionally chase smaller more docile planktivores such as anthias. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Small: 2-1/2″ to 3-1/2″, Medium: 3-3/4″ to 4, Large: 4-1/4” to 5″
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase size is approximate.
