Majestic Angelfish

The Majestic Angelfish is considered by many to be the most beautiful large angelfish in the Indo-Pacific, and its common name is well earned. Adults display a truly regal combination of rich golden-orange on the body, overlaid with intricate blue spotted patterning, and bounded by a bold electric-blue girdle that runs from the head along the dorsal region and down to the anal fin. The pelvic fins and leading edges of the anal fin are a vivid blue, while the tail is bright yellow. The overall effect is one of extraordinary elegance and grandeur.

In the wild, the Majestic Angelfish is found throughout the Western Pacific, from Indonesia and the Philippines to Papua New Guinea, Micronesia, and the Great Barrier Reef. It inhabits coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reef slopes at depths of 3 to 40 meters, often found in and around caves and overhangs. Juveniles are dark blue to black with white and light blue vertical barring, resembling the juveniles of other Pomacanthus species. The transition to adult coloration begins at approximately 3 to 4 inches and is a gradual but stunning metamorphosis.

The Majestic Angelfish is considered an advanced-level species in the aquarium hobby. While it can be kept successfully with dedication and proper care, it is more sensitive than many other large angelfish and requires pristine water quality, a varied sponge-rich diet, and a mature aquarium system. It is not reef-safe, as it will nip at and consume corals, sponges, tunicates, and clam mantles. A minimum aquarium size of 180 gallons is recommended to accommodate its adult size of up to 12 inches. When properly maintained, the Majestic Angelfish is a breathtaking centerpiece fish that commands attention in any large marine aquarium.