Majestic Angelfish

 Quick Care Facts

• Care Level: Moderate   • Temperament: Semi-aggressive   • Maximum Size: 12"
• Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallons   • Water Conditions: 72-80° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.020-1.025
• Diet: Omnivore   • Origin: Indo-Pacific
• Family: Pomacanthidae   • Species: Angels (Large)   • Aquarium Type: FOWLR

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Majestic Angelfish are an elegant and brightly colored species commonly observed along the coral reefs throughout the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific. Majestic Angelfish are one of the most popular angelfish species within the hobby due to their large size as well as their beautiful coloration and markings, but they are only recommended for experienced hobbyists due to their preference for pristine water quality and stable chemistry. As they mature, the darker, juvenile color form of the Majestic Angelfish will gradually fade away to be replaced by its vivid, adult coloration of bright orange-yellow and varying hues of dark to bright blue.

Majestic Angelfish are generally peaceful towards other tank mates, but may become quite territorial and aggressive toward conspecifics and other angelfish species; it's recommended that they be housed singly in a well established aquarium environment. Majestic Angelfish are an extremely attractive and rewarding choice for experienced hobbyists that can meet their needs; they are generally available through online retailers and local vendors alike, but may sometimes be quite pricey.

Majestic Angelfish should be housed in an aquarium of no less than 125 gallons and require plenty of live rock, forming multiple caves and crevices for territory and shelter. They require pristine water quality and should only be introduced to a well established aquarium due to their sensitivity to unstable conditions. They should also be provided with strong biological and mechanical filtration and the utilization of a high quality protein skimmer. Majestic Angelfish are in the pomacanthidae family and have lower opercular spines which can cause them to suffer from severe gill damage if they are ever collected with a net; if collection ever becomes necessary, they should be coaxed into a separate container with a flattened net, which can later be used to cover the top of the container preventing escape and injury.

They will usually coexist peacefully with other tank mates aside from conspecifics and other angelfish. The Majestic Angelfish is not reef friendly due to its affinity for sessile invertebrates, benthic invertebras, and small pelagic invertebrates (including tiny ornamental shrimp); they are ideally suited for large FOWLR aquariums.

Majestic Angelfish are omnivorous and generally eat sessile invertebrates (e.g.; soft corals, anemones, sponges), small benthic invertebrates, and marine algae in the wild. In the aquarium they should be presented with a wide variety of live, fresh, or frozen and vitamin-enriched brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, krill, chopped clams, marine algae, zucchini, spinach, romaine lettuce, and quality Spirulina-based flake foods for angelfish and herbivores. Feed them multiple small meals every day (at least 3 times). If a specimen isn't eating well during acclimation, they can be coaxed with live treats of brine shrimp, ghost shrimp, or fresh, chopped seafood (especially clams).