Spot-Breasted Angel (Genicanthus melanospilos) Care Guide
Genicanthus melanospilos is a reef-safe swallowtail angel from the Western Pacific, strongly sexually dichromatic and a midwater plankton feeder.
Overview
Genicanthus melanospilos is a swallowtail angelfish of the family Pomacanthidae. FishBase records a maximum length of about 18.0 cm and documents distinct male and female colour forms. It feeds in midwater and is one of the reef-safe members of the genus.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacanthidae
- Genus: Genicanthus
- Scientific name: Genicanthus melanospilos
Habitat
FishBase reports a Western Pacific range from Indonesia to Fiji, north to the Ryukyu Islands and south to Rowley Shoals and New Caledonia. It is marine, reef-associated and non-migratory, generally seen in pairs on steep outer reef slopes, drop-offs, caves or boulder bases at depths of about 20-45 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 sometimes feeds on plankton high above the substrate. In aquaria it should receive 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 usually occurs in loose groups of females dominated by a male. Suitable companions include tangs, wrasses, anthias and clownfish, while aggressive large Pomacanthus angels are best avoided.
Reef compatibility
As a midwater planktivore, Genicanthus melanospilos is regarded as reef-safe and typically 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.