Care Level: Moderate
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: Yes
General Description: The Lamarck’s Angelfish, also referred to as simply the Lamark Angelfish, has a wide distribution across the Indo-West-Pacific. Genicanthus have the distinction among angelfish of being sexually dimorphic. Both males and females have silvery-gray bodies with horizontal black lines from head to tail. The female’s stripes are bolder, with one extending into the length of the caudal fin. In both, the long dorsal fin is black, although larger in the female, and the caudal fin is freckled with 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, or a male with several females. While females tend to stay smaller, a Lamarck’s angel can reach a size of approximately 8″.
Diet Requirements: In the wild Genicanthus angelfish are zooplanktivores. While this specific food source can be a challenge to replicate in the home aquarium, the Lamarck’s angel 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.
Care Requirements: A minimum 125 gallon aquarium with 12+ inch width is ideal for a single, large Lamarck’s 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 Lamarck’s angel is rather non-confrontational with most tank-mates, including angelfish in other genera (Pomacanthus, Holocanthus, Centropyge). Compatability with other species within Genicanthus is variable; do not house more than one male in the same aquarium. The Lamarck’s angel has 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″ or less; Medium: 2-3/4″ to 3-3/4″; Large: 4″ to 5-1/2″;Â
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase size is approximate.
