Bellus Angel
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Bellus Angelfish (Genicanthus bellus)
Overview
The Bellus Angelfish (Genicanthus bellus), also known as the Elegant Swallowtail Angelfish, is one of the most graceful and sexually dimorphic angelfish species in the aquarium trade. Belonging to the Genicanthus genus — the only truly planktivorous and reef-safe group of angelfish — this species is prized for its refined appearance, peaceful temperament, and compatibility with reef environments.
Native to deep reef slopes across the Western and Central Pacific, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Micronesia, G. bellus is found at depths of 30–100 m (100–330 ft), where it swims gracefully in the open water above coral rubble.
Males and females exhibit striking sexual dimorphism:
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Males display silvery-white bodies with bold horizontal black and orange stripes.
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Females are more understated, with a soft grey body accented by orange and black along the dorsal and caudal fins.
Both sexes possess a distinctive lyre-shaped tail and elegant, continuous motion. Hardy, peaceful, and reef-compatible, the Bellus Angelfish is an ideal choice for advanced aquarists seeking a sophisticated open-water species for a mature marine aquarium.
Aquarium Requirements
Minimum Tank Size: 350 litres (90 US gallons) or larger — 475 L+ recommended for pairs or harems
Temperature: 23–27 °C (74–81 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.020–1.025
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: < 20 ppm (preferably < 10 ppm)
Aquascape: Provide a spacious aquarium with a mix of open swimming areas and rock structures for retreat. Although Bellus Angelfish spend much of their time in the water column, they appreciate shaded areas and overhangs that replicate their natural deep-reef habitat.
Maintain strong, laminar water movement and excellent oxygenation. Dimming the lighting or providing subdued zones will help mimic natural depth conditions and reduce stress.
Diet and Feeding
The Bellus Angelfish is a planktivorous omnivore, feeding primarily on zooplankton, copepods, and suspended matter in the water column. In captivity, it readily adapts to prepared foods if offered a varied, nutrient-rich diet.
Recommended Foods:
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Enriched mysis shrimp and brine shrimp
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Finely chopped marine seafood (clam, shrimp, scallop)
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High-quality frozen or dry plankton substitutes
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Spirulina- and algae-based flakes or micro-pellets
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Frozen reef blends for planktivorous fish
Feed two to three times daily in small portions, ensuring food is carried through the water column where the fish naturally feed. Frequent feeding promotes natural activity and sustains vibrant coloration.
Temperament and Compatibility
The Bellus Angelfish is peaceful and social, making it one of the most community-friendly members of the angelfish family. It thrives either singly, in mated pairs, or in small harems (one male with multiple females) when space allows.
Suitable Tankmates:
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Peaceful reef fish such as anthias, fairy wrasses (Cirrhilabrus), flasher wrasses (Paracheilinus), gobies, and chromis
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Other peaceful angelfish species from the Genicanthus genus (in larger systems)
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Non-aggressive tangs and butterflyfish
Avoid:
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Aggressive or territorial species (large triggers, aggressive angels, or predatory wrasses)
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Fin-nippers and boisterous fish that may outcompete for food
The Bellus Angelfish rarely shows aggression except in cases of territorial pairing disputes. If introducing multiple specimens, add them simultaneously or introduce females before males to minimize conflict.
Reef Compatibility
✅ Reef Safe
Unlike most angelfish, members of the Genicanthus genus are obligate planktivores and do not nip at corals, clams, or sessile invertebrates. The Bellus Angelfish is therefore considered completely reef safe, making it ideal for coral-dominated reef aquariums.
It provides natural motion and contrast within the upper water column without posing any risk to delicate reef organisms.
Additional Information
Maximum Size: Up to 18 cm (7 inches)
Lifespan: 10–12 years in captivity with optimal care
Difficulty Level: Moderate — best kept by intermediate to advanced aquarists
Natural Behavior: Active midwater swimmer; social; typically found in pairs or harems; enjoys strong current and open space
Origin: Western & Central Pacific — from the Philippines and Indonesia to Palau, Micronesia, and the Coral Sea
Sexual Dimorphism:
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Male: Bold black and orange striping across a silvery body
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Female: Grey-silver body with orange-edged dorsal and caudal fins
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In captivity, females can change sex to male if dominant in a group — a natural process among Genicanthus species.
Summary
The Bellus Angelfish (Genicanthus bellus) is an elegant, reef-safe species admired for its peaceful disposition, graceful swimming, and striking sexual dimorphism. Perfect for advanced community or reef aquariums, it thrives in large, open-water systems with strong currents, excellent water quality, and frequent, varied feeding.
With proper care, the Bellus Angelfish will display its full beauty and active social behavior, serving as a dynamic and harmonious addition to the upper layers of a mature marine aquarium.
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