🐠 Bellus Angelfish (Genicanthus bellus)
🐠 Bellus Angelfish (Genicanthus bellus)
Marine Angelfish • Planktivore • Reef Safe • Display Species
📋 The Bellus Angelfish (Genicanthus bellus) is a rare, deep-water angelfish known for its elegant form and striking sexual dimorphism. Females are typically silver-white with black and blue striping along the dorsal region, while males display vivid blue accents and deeper shading across the body.
Unlike most angelfish, this species feeds primarily on zooplankton in open water and is considered 100% reef safe, making it a perfect choice for mixed coral aquariums. It thrives best in oxygen-rich, well-circulated tanks with open swimming areas and live rock.
Peaceful, refined, and rarely seen in the hobby, the Bellus Angelfish is a true connoisseur’s choice for marine aquarists seeking both beauty and harmony.
💡 Highlights
✨ Reef safe: will not harm corals or clams
⚪ Sexual dimorphism: males and females show distinct coloration
📏 Graceful swimmer: thrives in open reef environments
✅ Deep-water elegance: stunning beauty in motion
🐠 Peaceful nature: perfect for reef communities
🧾 A Quick Look at the Bellus Angelfish
📛 Common Name: Bellus Angelfish / Ornate Swallowtail Angelfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Genicanthus bellus
👨👩👧 Family: Pomacanthidae
🌍 Origin: Western Pacific • Philippines • Indonesia • Palau
📏 Max Size: 18 cm (≈ 7")
💧 pH Range: 8.1 – 8.4
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24 – 28 °C (75 – 82 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Intermediate
💖 Temperament: Peaceful
🪸 Reef Safe: ✅ Yes – does not nip at corals or clams
🏠 Min Tank Size: 300 L (79 US gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Midwater swimmer
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes – sustainably sourced from Pacific reefs
⏳ Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
🍽️ Diet: Planktivore (zooplankton • mysis shrimp • marine microfauna)
🐣 Reproduction: Protogynous hermaphrodite; forms harems with one male
