Queen Angelfish (Holocanthus ciliaris) – Quick Stats

• Care Level: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Diet: Omnivore
• Reef Safe: No
• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons
• Max Size: Up to 18 inches
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025, temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide to the Queen Angelfish (Holocanthus ciliaris)

Habitat

The Queen Angelfish is native to the Western Atlantic Ocean, commonly found in the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and Florida Keys. It inhabits coral reefs and rocky areas, preferring depths of 15 to 90 feet.

Reef Safe

The Queen Angelfish is not considered reef safe. It may nip at corals, particularly stony corals, and can cause damage to a reef aquarium.

Size

Queen Angelfish can grow up to 18 inches in length, making them a medium-sized species for a saltwater aquarium.

Temperament

While generally not aggressive, Queen Angelfish can become territorial and may exhibit aggression towards other similar-looking angelfish or fish with similar body shapes.

Sexual Dimorphism

Male and female Queen Angelfish look similar, but males typically have longer ventral fins and slightly brighter colors.

Lifespan

The Queen Angelfish has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years when kept in a well-maintained aquarium with proper care.

Diet in Aquariums

Queen Angelfish are omnivores, feeding on a variety of meaty foods, including small fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates. It is recommended to provide a varied diet that includes high-quality pellets, frozen or live foods, and occasional vegetable matter.

Aquascaping Recommendations

For a Queen Angelfish, it is essential to provide ample hiding places and areas with live rock to mimic their natural habitat. Including caves, crevices, and overhangs will help create a sense of security for the fish.

Captive Bred Availability

While Queen Angelfish are occasionally available as captive-bred specimens, they are more commonly collected from the wild. This species can be challenging to breed in captivity due to its complex reproductive behaviors.

Compatibility with Other Fish, Invertebrates, or Corals

Queen Angelfish can be kept with other peaceful to semi-aggressive fish species, but caution should be exercised when housing them with other angelfish or similarly shaped fish. They are not suitable tankmates for most invertebrates or corals, as they may nip at them.

5 Recommended Tankmates

• Royal Gramma – Peaceful and hardy, their small size and contrasting coloration make them a good choice.
• Yellow Tang – Active and peaceful fish that add vibrant yellow coloration to the tank.
• Green Chromis – Schooling fish that add movement and color to the aquarium.
• Firefish Goby – Peaceful and visually striking, they occupy the lower levels of the tank.
• Pajama Cardinalfish – Peaceful and easy to care for, they add interesting behavior to the aquarium.

Other Common Names

The Queen Angelfish may also be known as the Blue Angel, Golden Angelfish, or Yellowtail Angelfish.

Why Buy from Reefs4Less.com

At Reefs4Less.com, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality marine fish and invertebrates at affordable prices. Our team ensures the health and well-being of all our livestock, and we offer a wide selection of species to suit various aquarium setups. With our reliable shipping and excellent customer service, we strive to make your experience with us as convenient and enjoyable as possible.

Popular Questions about the Queen Angelfish (Holocanthus ciliaris) in Saltwater Aquariums

Q: Can Queen Angelfish be kept in a reef aquarium?

A: No, due to their tendency to nip at corals, Queen Angelfish are not considered reef safe.

Q: What size tank is suitable for a Queen Angelfish?

A: A minimum tank size of 125 gallons is recommended to provide enough swimming space and accommodate their size.

Q: Are Queen Angelfish aggressive towards other fish?

A: While not generally aggressive, Queen Angelfish can become territorial and may exhibit aggression towards similar-looking angelfish or fish with similar body shapes.

Q: How long do Queen Angelfish live?

A: Queen Angelfish can live for 15 to 20 years when kept in a well-maintained aquarium with proper care.

Q: What should I feed my Queen Angelfish in an aquarium?

A: A varied diet consisting of high-quality pellets, frozen or live foods, and occasional vegetable matter is recommended for Queen Angelfish.