🐠 African Angelfish (Holacanthus africanus)
🐠 African Angelfish (Holacanthus africanus)
Marine Angelfish • Reef Grazing • Display Species • Atlantic Beauty
📋 The African Angelfish (Holacanthus africanus) is a stunning deep-bodied species that glows with metallic gold and electric-blue edging. Juveniles feature blue-striped bodies, transitioning into adults with brilliant yellow coloration, deep royal-blue fins, and a bright white facial mask.
Native to West African reefs, this species thrives in rocky coastal zones rich in sponge and algae growth. It’s bold, intelligent, and territorial, ideal for large, mature FOWLR systems with robust filtration. While not suited for reef tanks, it’s a premium showpiece angelfish admired for rarity and majesty.
💡 Highlights
✨ Golden display beauty: metallic yellow body with royal-blue accents
⚪ Rare Atlantic species: found along West African coast
📏 Large and commanding: reaches up to 45 cm (18")
✅ Hardy in spacious systems: thrives in large FOWLR tanks
🐠 Mature showpiece: ideal for expert keepers
🧾 A Quick Look at the African Angelfish
📛 Common Name: African Angelfish / Guinea Angelfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Holacanthus africanus
👨👩👧 Family: Pomacanthidae
🌍 Origin: Eastern Atlantic • Gulf of Guinea • Senegal to Angola • Cape Verde Islands
📏 Max Size: 45 cm (≈ 18")
💧 pH Range: 8.1 – 8.4
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24 – 28 °C (75 – 82 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Advanced
💖 Temperament: Semi-aggressive
🪸 Reef Safe: ❌ No – nips soft corals and sponges
🏠 Min Tank Size: 750 L (198 US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Mid to bottom
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes – West African reefs
⏳ Lifespan: Up to 15 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore (sponges • algae • tunicates • meaty marine foods)
🐣 Reproduction: Protogynous hermaphrodite; pelagic spawners
