Six Bar Angelfish: Juvenile – (Pomacanthus sextriatus)

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Diet: Omnivorous
• Reef Safe: No
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
• Maximum Size: Up to 15 inches

Six Bar Angelfish: Juvenile – (Pomacanthus sextriatus)

The Six Bar Angelfish, also known as Pomacanthus sextriatus, is a species commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover various aspects of keeping the Six Bar Angelfish in a saltwater aquarium.

Habitat

The Six Bar Angelfish is typically found in coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reef slopes. They prefer depths ranging from 10 to 100 feet, where they can find shelter among the coral formations.

Reef Safe

The Six Bar Angelfish is not considered reef safe. They have a tendency to nip at and potentially damage corals, especially soft corals and stony corals with large polyps.

Size

As adults, Six Bar Angelfish can reach a size of up to 15 inches. Juveniles are smaller in size, starting at around 3 to 4 inches.

Temperament

The temperament of the Six Bar Angelfish can be described as semi-aggressive. While they may exhibit some territorial behavior, they can generally coexist with other fish species in a large enough tank.

Sexual Dimorphism

There are no noticeable differences in appearance between males and females of the Six Bar Angelfish species.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of the Six Bar Angelfish is around 10 to 15 years when kept in a well-maintained saltwater aquarium.

Diet in Aquariums

Six Bar Angelfish are omnivorous, and their diet should consist of a variety of meaty and vegetable-based foods. Offer them a mix of high-quality marine pellets, frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and seaweed sheets to ensure a balanced diet.

Aquascaping Recommendations

When setting up the aquarium for Six Bar Angelfish, it is important to provide plenty of hiding places and open swimming areas. Use live rock formations or artificial structures to create caves and crevices where the angelfish can seek refuge.

Availability as Captive Bred

The Six Bar Angelfish is not commonly available as a captive-bred species. Most individuals found in the aquarium trade are wild-caught. It is important to choose specimens that have been carefully collected and properly acclimated to captivity.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

Six Bar Angelfish can be kept with other semi-aggressive to peaceful fish species in a large enough aquarium. However, caution should be exercised when introducing them to smaller or more timid fish, as they may exhibit aggression towards them. They should not be housed with delicate corals or invertebrates that may be targets of their nipping behavior.

Five specific tankmates that can be suitable choices for the Six Bar Angelfish are:

1. Yellow Tang – They are compatible in terms of size and temperament, and the bright colors of both species can create an attractive display in the aquarium.
2. Flame Hawkfish – This fish adds a unique appearance to the tank and can coexist with the Six Bar Angelfish as long as there is adequate hiding space.
3. Fairy Wrasse – These peaceful and colorful fish can add additional movement and vibrancy to the aquarium, complementing the Six Bar Angelfish.
4. Green Reef Chromis – These small schooling fish can create a sense of community and add activity to the tank without posing a threat to the angelfish.
5. Longnose Hawkfish (Oxycirrhites typus) – With its distinctive appearance and peaceful nature, this hawkfish can coexist with the Six Bar Angelfish if provided with ample perching spots.

Other Common Names

The Six Bar Angelfish is also commonly known as the Sixband Angelfish, Sixstripe Angelfish, or Sixbar Angelfish.

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Popular Questions and Answers

1. Q: Can the Six Bar Angelfish be kept in a reef tank?
   A: No, the Six Bar Angelfish is not considered reef safe as it may nip at and potentially damage corals.
2. Q: What is the recommended tank size for the Six Bar Angelfish?
   A: A minimum tank size of 125 gallons is recommended to provide enough space for the angelfish to swim and establish territories.
3. Q: How often should the Six Bar Angelfish be fed?
   A: It is recommended to feed the Six Bar Angelfish twice a day, offering a varied diet to ensure proper nutrition.
4. Q: Can the Six Bar Angelfish be kept with other angelfish species?
   A: It is generally not recommended to keep multiple angelfish species together, as they can exhibit territorial behavior and may become aggressive towards each other.
5. Q: What is the ideal water temperature and salinity for the Six Bar Angelfish?
   A: The recommended water temperature for the Six Bar Angelfish is between 72°F and 78°F, with a salinity level of 1.023-1.025.