Queen Angelfish

The Queen Angelfish (Holacanthus ciliaris) is a stunning and popular marine fish species among aquarium enthusiasts. However, they require specific care and attention to thrive in a home aquarium. Here's a care guide for juvenile Queen Angelfish.

Tank Setup

Tank Size: Provide a tank that's at least 75 gallons or larger. Juvenile Queen Angelfish can grow quite large, and they need ample swimming space.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature of around 76-82°F (24-28°C).
• Salinity: Keep the salinity level at 1.020-1.025.
• pH: Aim for a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Ammonia, Nitrites, and Nitrates: These should be kept at minimal levels, so a good filtration system is essential.
• Substrate and Decorations: Use live rock for a natural look and to provide hiding spots. Angelfish enjoy exploring and perching on rock formations.

Feeding

Diet: Queen Angelfish are omnivores. They should be fed a varied diet that includes high-quality marine pellets, flake food, frozen foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and spirulina. Offering a mix of foods will help ensure they receive a balanced diet.

Feeding Frequency: Offer small amounts of food 2-3 times a day. Ensure they get enough to eat, but do not overfeed, as this can lead to water quality issues.

Behavior and Tankmates:

Compatibility: Queen Angelfish are known to be territorial and aggressive as they mature, especially towards their own kind. It's best to keep them singly or in mated pairs. Be cautious when adding other angelfish or similar species to the tank.

Tankmates: Choose tankmates that are peaceful and can coexist with an angelfish. Reef-safe fish and invertebrates are generally suitable.

Health and Maintenance:

Quarantine: Quarantine new arrivals before introducing them to your main tank to prevent the introduction of diseases.

Water Quality: Regular water changes and a good protein skimmer are vital for maintaining water quality. Monitor parameters with test kits to ensure they are within the appropriate range.

Disease Prevention: Keep a close eye on your fish for any signs of disease. If you notice any issues, isolate the affected fish and consult with a fish health professional.

Growth and Transition:

Queen Angelfish go through several color and pattern changes as they grow. Juveniles display different colors and markings compared to adults. Be prepared for these changes, and note that they can become more territorial and aggressive as they mature.

Caution: Queen Angelfish can be challenging to keep, and their needs should not be underestimated. Be sure to do your research and have a well-established marine aquarium before adding one to your collection. Additionally, remember that they are a species with regulations, and it's important to ensure that the fish you acquire has been collected and sold legally and responsibly.