Lamarck's Angel (Genicanthus lamarck) Care Guide
Genicanthus lamarck is a planktivorous swallowtail angelfish from the Indo-West Pacific, known for sexual dichromatism and reef-safe feeding habits.
Overview
Genicanthus lamarck is a swallowtail angelfish of the family Pomacanthidae. FishBase records a maximum length of about 25.0 cm. Like other Genicanthus species it is sexually dichromatic, with males and females differing in pattern, and it feeds in midwater rather than grazing reef surfaces.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacanthidae
- Genus: Genicanthus
- Scientific name: Genicanthus lamarck
Habitat
FishBase reports an Indo-West Pacific range from the Indo-Malayan area east to Vanuatu, north to southern Japan and south to the Great Barrier Reef. It is marine, reef-associated and non-migratory, inhabiting shallow reef crests and deep reefs adjacent to steep slopes at depths of about 10-50 m.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 600 L (159 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- dKH (carbonate hardness): 8-12
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
Diet
FishBase reports that the species feeds on plankton, forming aggregations to feed in midwater well above the bottom. In aquaria it accepts frequent small feedings of meaty planktonic foods such as mysis and enriched brine shrimp.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, mid-water angel. FishBase notes that it forms harems of 3-7 individuals. Suitable companions include tangs, wrasses, anthias and clownfish, while aggressive large Pomacanthus angels are best avoided.
Reef compatibility
Because it feeds on plankton in open water, Genicanthus lamarck is regarded as reef-safe and generally ignores corals. Maintain specific gravity around 1.024-1.026 and carbonate hardness of 8-12 dKH.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2009), as reported by FishBase.