Introduction:
The Bellus Angelfish, scientific name Genicanthus bellus, is a marine fish species that belong to the family Pomacanthidae. This beautiful and colorful fish is native to the Western Pacific, particularly the Coral Sea, and can be found in a wide range of reef habitats. The Bellus Angelfish is a popular species in the aquarium trade due to its stunning appearance, peaceful temperament, and relative ease of care.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | Up to 10 years |
| Temperature | 76-80°F (24-27°C) |
| Minimum Size | 75 gallons |
| Maximum Size | 5-6 inches (13-15 cm) |
| Species | Bellus Angelfish |
| Family | Pomacanthidae |
| Scientific Name | Genicanthus bellus |
| Origin | Western Pacific, including Australia |
| Diet & Nutrition | Omnivorous, diet should include frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and spirulina, as well as seaweed or algae-based foods |
| Breeding | Difficult to breed in captivity |
| Tank Mates | Peaceful fish such as tangs, clownfish, and gobies. Should not be housed with aggressive or territorial fish. |
| Tank Size | Minimum 75 gallons |
| Average Price | $50-$100+ |
Please note that prices may vary depending on location and availability.
Physical Characteristics:
The Bellus Angelfish is a medium-sized fish that can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. Its body is flat and disk-shaped, with a vibrant blue color on the top half and a white or yellowish color on the bottom half. The Bellus Angelfish has a distinctive black stripe that runs across its eyes, and its fins are also colored blue with black accents.
Behavior and Habitat:
The Bellus Angelfish is a peaceful and shy fish that tends to hide among the rocks and coral in its natural habitat. It is generally found in deeper waters, usually between 100 to 200 feet (30 to 60 meters), where it feeds on algae and small invertebrates. The Bellus Angelfish is a solitary fish and is rarely seen in groups.
In the aquarium, the Bellus Angelfish can be kept with other peaceful species, but should not be housed with aggressive or territorial fish. It requires a large aquarium with plenty of hiding places, live rock, and open swimming areas. The aquarium should also have a strong water flow, as the Bellus Angelfish prefers well-oxygenated water.
Diet:
In the wild, the Bellus Angelfish feeds on algae, small invertebrates, and zooplankton. In the aquarium, it should be fed a varied diet that includes a mixture of frozen or live foods, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and spirulina. It should also be provided with plenty of seaweed or algae-based foods, as these are an important part of its natural diet.
Caring for Bellus Angelfish:
The Bellus Angelfish is a beautiful and peaceful species of fish that can make a wonderful addition to a home aquarium. However, caring for this species can be challenging, as it requires specific water conditions and a varied diet to thrive. Here are some guidelines for properly caring for Bellus Angelfish:
Tank size and setup:
Bellus Angelfish requires a large aquarium with plenty of swimming space and hiding places. The minimum recommended tank size for one Bellus Angelfish is 75 gallons, but larger tanks are preferred. Live rock should be provided as a natural hiding place and for grazing, and an open swimming area should also be available.
Water conditions:
Bellus Angelfish require specific water conditions to thrive. The water temperature should be kept between 76 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 27 degrees Celsius), and the pH level should be maintained between 8.1 and 8.4. The salinity of the water should be between 1.021 and 1.025.
Filtration:
A good filtration system is essential for keeping Bellus Angelfish healthy. A protein skimmer and a canister filter can help maintain water quality and remove organic waste. Regular water changes are also important for keeping the water clean and clear.
Lighting:
Moderate lighting is recommended for Bellus Angelfish, as they prefer low to moderate light levels in their natural habitat. LED lights are a good choice, as they can provide a range of light levels and colors.
Tankmates:
Bellus Angelfish are peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful species of fish, such as tangs, clownfish, and gobies. However, they should not be housed with aggressive or territorial fish, as they can become stressed and may be injured.
Health concerns:
Bellus Angelfish are generally hardy and disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to ich (white spot disease) and other parasitic infections. Regular water changes, proper filtration, and a varied diet can help keep them healthy. Quarantining new fish before adding them to the aquarium can also help prevent the spread of diseases.
Breeding:
The Bellus Angelfish is a difficult species to breed in captivity, as it requires very specific conditions to reproduce. In the wild, the Bellus Angelfish spawns in pairs, with the male fertilizing the eggs after the female lays them. To successfully breed the Bellus Angelfish in captivity, a large, well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock and hiding places is required. The water conditions must also be carefully monitored, with a stable temperature, pH, and salinity.
FAQ:
Can Bellus Angelfish change their color?
Yes, Bellus Angelfish have the ability to change their color depending on their mood, level of stress, and environment. They can become darker, lighter, or more vibrant in color.
Are Bellus Angelfish reef-safe?
Yes, Bellus Angelfish are generally considered to be reef-safe as they do not typically bother or harm coral or other invertebrates. However, they may nip at some types of soft corals or zoanthids.
Do Bellus Angelfish make any sounds?
No, Bellus Angelfish do not make any sounds as they do not have a vocal apparatus. However, they may produce clicking or grinding sounds as they grind their teeth to crush their food.
How can I tell the gender of a Bellus Angelfish?
It is difficult to determine the gender of Bellus Angelfish as they do not have external sexual characteristics. However, males may be slightly larger and more colorful than females.
Conclusion:
The Bellus Angelfish is a beautiful and fascinating species that can make a wonderful addition to a home aquarium. While it can be a challenging species to keep, with the right care and attention, the Bellus Angelfish can thrive in captivity and provide many years of enjoyment for its owner. As with any marine fish species, it is important to research and understands the specific needs of the Bellus Angelfish before bringing one home, to ensure that it is properly cared for and can live a healthy and happy life.
