Regal Angelfish

• ExerciseModerate

  An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• GroomingDemanding tank care

  Demands pristine water — frequent testing and meticulous upkeep.

• Living spaceMid-size tank

  Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment10–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Parasites

The Regal Angelfish (Pygoplites diacanthus) is found across the Indo-Pacific and the Red Sea and reaches about 25 cm. Its natural diet is dominated by sponges and tunicates, which is the root of its reputation: many imported specimens simply never begin taking prepared food and slowly starve. Origin matters more here than for almost any other marine fish, with Red Sea and Maldivian specimens acclimating far better than those from the Philippines and Indonesia. It needs 700 litres or more at 24-27C, salinity 1.024 to 1.026, pH 8.1 to 8.4, in a mature system with abundant live rock and plenty of caves. Feed a sponge-based frozen angelfish preparation, mysis, enriched brine shrimp and nori, offered several times a day, and buy only a fish already observed eating in the shop. It nips at stony and soft corals and clam mantles, so it is not reliably reef safe. It is peaceful and easily bullied, so it must be added before more assertive fish and kept with calm tankmates.

• How active is a Regal Angelfish?

  Moderate. An active swimmer that appreciates open swimming space.

• How much maintenance does a Regal Angelfish need?

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

• What tank size does a Regal Angelfish need?

  Mid-size tank. Needs a mid-size aquarium with room to swim.

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

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Regal Angelfish live?

  10–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Regal Angelfish?

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

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