Half-banded Angel (Genicanthus semifasciatus) Care Guide
Genicanthus semifasciatus, the Japanese swallow, is a deep-water reef-safe angel from the Western Pacific, a protogynous hermaphrodite that feeds in midwater.
Overview
Genicanthus semifasciatus, the Japanese swallow, is a swallowtail angelfish of the family Pomacanthidae. FishBase records a maximum length of about 21.0 cm and describes it as a protogynous hermaphrodite, with sex change occurring at around 9.3 cm total length.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacanthidae
- Genus: Genicanthus
- Scientific name: Genicanthus semifasciatus
Habitat
FishBase reports a Western Pacific range from southern Japan to Taiwan and the northern Philippines. It is marine, reef-associated and non-migratory, inhabiting seaward rocky and coral reefs at depths of about 15-100 m, placing it among the deep-water Genicanthus species.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 700 L (185 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- dKH (carbonate hardness): 8-12
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
Diet
FishBase describes the species as a herbivore-omnivore and a hardy aquarium fish that takes standard foods such as chopped meaty items, freeze-dried shrimp and mysids. Frequent small feedings of varied marine foods are appropriate.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, mid-water angel. FishBase notes that it forms permanent harem groups of a single male with several smaller females. Suitable companions include tangs, wrasses, anthias and clownfish, while aggressive large Pomacanthus angels are best avoided.
Reef compatibility
As a midwater-feeding swallowtail, Genicanthus semifasciatus is regarded as reef-safe and generally ignores corals. Coming from deep water, it benefits from subdued lighting, with 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.