Regal Angelfish

 Quick Care Facts

• Care Level: Expert   • Temperament: Semi-aggressive   • Maximum Size: 10"
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 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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The Regal Angelfish is an attractive and colorful fish that can be found living among the tropical coral reefs throughout the Indo-Pacific. Regal Angelfish are one of the most colorful angelfish species with their vivid coloration of bright blue, yellow, black, and white. Regal Angelfish are generally peaceful, but they can become territorial with conspecifics and should be housed singly. Some Regal Angelfish have been known to bully tank mates with a similar appearance or eating habits, but will usually leave heterospecific tank mates alone.

Regal Angelfish are not usually compatible in a reef environment as they are known to nip at LPS and soft coral species as well as clam mantles, sponges, and tunicates; they will also consume ornamental and nuisance marine algae within their aquarium. Regal Angelfish are an excellent choice for advanced hobbyists looking to add brilliant color and constant activity to their aquarium. Regal Angelfish are usually available within the hobby and can be obtained through online vendors and local retailers.

Regal Angelfish require an aquarium of at least 125 gallons and should be provided with plenty of live rock for multiple hiding places and adequate territory. They are a highly sensitive species and require pristine and stable water parameters in addition to an already well established aquarium environment; they are only recommended for the more experienced hobbyists that can meet their special needs. They must be provided with strong and efficient biological and mechanical filtration as well as a high quality protein skimmer.

Regal Angelfish are members of the pomacanthidae family and have lower opercular spines that can lead to severe gill damage if they are netted; if it becomes necessary to collect an individual from an aquarium, they should be coaxed into a container with a flattened net, which can then be used to cover the top to prevent injury or escape. They will generally get along well with other tank mates except for other angelfish or members of the same species (unless paired) or tank mates that have a similar appearance. Regal Angelfish are not reef compatible as they will consume various LPS and soft coral species as well as tiny crustaceans, clam mantles, sponges, and tunicates.

Regal Angelfish are omnivores that mainly feed upon sponges and sessile invertebrates in their natural environment. Their dietary needs in the aquarium should consist of a variety of live, fresh, or frozen and vitamin enriched brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, krill, clams, marine algae, zucchini, spinach, romaine lettuce, and quality Spirulina-based flake foods for angelfish and herbivores. Feed multiple small meals each day (at least 3 times). This species may sometimes refuse to eat while acclimating to a new aquarium; it may be enticed to eat by offering live shrimp or fresh, chopped clams.