Majestic Angelfish (Pomacanthus navarchus) Care Guide
Pomacanthus navarchus is an Indo-Pacific marine angelfish of the family Pomacanthidae, reaching about 28 cm and feeding largely on sponges and tunicates.
Overview
Pomacanthus navarchus, the blue-girdled or majestic angelfish, is a marine fish of the family Pomacanthidae. Adults show a yellow anterior, deep blue central section and a reticulated yellow-and-blue rear. FishBase records a maximum total length of 28 cm, and Wikipedia notes a lifespan of up to about 21 years.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacanthidae
- Genus: Pomacanthus
- Scientific name: Pomacanthus navarchus
- Authority: Cuvier, 1831
Habitat
FishBase records the species across the Indo-Pacific, from Indonesia and Papua New Guinea north to the Philippines, south to the southern Great Barrier Reef, and including Palau and Yap. It is marine and reef-associated at a depth range of 3-40 m, in channels, lagoons and coral-rich habitats.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 800 L (211 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Carbonate hardness: 8-12 °dKH
- Lifespan: 15-25 years
- Setup: large aquascape with caves and open swimming space
Diet
Pomacanthus navarchus feeds largely on sponges and tunicates, with a FishBase trophic level of about 2.7; Wikipedia adds algae, zooplankton and small invertebrates. In captivity it requires a varied diet including sponge-based preparations and vegetable matter.
Compatibility
Wikipedia describes the species as territorial, found alone or occasionally in pairs or small groups. Because it grazes on sponges, soft corals and tunicates, it is not considered reef-safe and is best kept in large fish-focused or carefully chosen mixed systems.
Breeding
Wikipedia describes the species as a protogynous hermaphrodite, beginning adult life as a female and later changing to male. Captive breeding is not established.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2009), per FishBase.