French Angelfish

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingDemanding tank care

  Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• Living spaceLarge tank

  Needs a large aquarium — several hundred liters.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment15–25 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Parasites · Nutritional deficiency

The French Angelfish (Pomacanthus paru) lives in the tropical western Atlantic from Florida through the Caribbean to Brazil and grows to about 35 to 40 cm. Adults are dark grey to black with every scale outlined in bright yellow, a yellow gill bar and a yellow-rimmed eye. Juveniles are black with three or four vivid yellow bars and work as cleaner fish, picking parasites off larger species at reef cleaning stations. It requires 800 litres or more at 24-27C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4, with large caves and open swimming room. Like other large angels it is a sponge feeder in nature, so sponge-based angel formulas are essential alongside algae sheets, mysis and pellets fed several times daily. It is famously personable and long-lived, and wild pairs are monogamous. The honest limits are the same as for any Pomacanthus: it is not reef safe with corals, clams or ornamental invertebrates, and it needs a system most home aquarists will never build.

• How active is a French Angelfish?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a French Angelfish need?

  Demanding tank care. Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• What tank size does a French Angelfish need?

  Large tank. Needs a large aquarium — several hundred liters.

• Is a French Angelfish a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do French Angelfish live?

  15–25 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the French Angelfish?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Parasites, Nutritional deficiency. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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