Annularis Angel - Adult

Aquarium Requirements

Minimum Tank Size: 500 litres (130 US gallons) or larger — ideally 750 L+ for long-term adult housing

Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °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: Create a spacious environment with abundant live rock for grazing, hiding, and territorial boundaries, while maintaining large open areas for swimming. Provide caves, arches, and shaded regions to replicate natural reef structure.

The Annularis Angelfish is sensitive to poor water quality and confined environments. A large, mature, well-filtered system with vigorous water movement and high oxygenation is essential. Employ an efficient protein skimmer, regular maintenance schedule, and stable parameters for best results.

Diet and Feeding

The Annularis Angelfish is an omnivore with a strong preference for sponges, tunicates, and algae in the wild. In captivity, it requires a diverse diet to maintain vibrant coloration and long-term health.

Recommended Foods:

• Frozen angelfish formulas containing sponge matter

• Finely chopped marine seafood (clam, squid, shrimp, scallop)

• Enriched mysis shrimp and brine shrimp

• Spirulina- and algae-based pellets or flakes

• Sheets of dried seaweed (nori) offered on a clip

• Occasional blanched vegetable matter (e.g., spinach, marine algae blends)

Feed 2–3 times daily in small portions. Encourage natural grazing by allowing biofilm and microalgae to grow on live rock. Dietary variety is crucial for immune health and coloration.

Temperament and Compatibility

Adult Annularis Angelfish are semi-aggressive to aggressive, especially toward other large angelfish and similar-bodied species. They establish firm territories and may chase or harass newcomers, particularly in smaller tanks.

Suitable Tankmates:

• Large, robust species such as tangs, triggers (non-predatory species), and larger wrasses

• Peaceful to semi-aggressive fish that occupy different niches (e.g., anthias, butterflyfish, large gobies)

Avoid:

• Other Pomacanthus or Holacanthus species unless housed in very large systems (>1,000 L)

• Very small or timid fish (may be intimidated or harassed)

• Invertebrate predators or coral-nippers that compete for similar space

Introduce the Annularis Angel last or after other tankmates are established to reduce territorial aggression.

Reef Compatibility

⚠️ Reef Safe with Caution

The Annularis Angelfish is not considered reef safe. While individuals vary, adults commonly nip at:

• Large-polyp stony (LPS) corals

• Soft corals

• Zoanthids

• Sponges and clam mantles

They may coexist in coral systems dominated by hardy SPS corals or with careful coral selection, but they are best housed in a fish-only with live rock (FOWLR) aquarium where their natural grazing behavior poses no risk to sessile invertebrates.

Additional Information

Maximum Size: Up to 40 cm (15–16 inches)
Lifespan: 15 years or more in captivity with optimal conditions
Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Natural Behavior: Intelligent, territorial, and observant; establishes dominance hierarchies and strong site fidelity
Origin: Indo-West Pacific — from Sri Lanka and Indonesia to New Guinea and northern Australia; common around reefs of the Andaman Sea and western Pacific islands

Summary

The Annularis Angelfish (Pomacanthus annularis) is an iconic large angelfish species that combines regal beauty with commanding presence. Its size, intelligence, and territorial nature demand a large, stable, and mature marine system managed by an experienced aquarist.

With excellent water quality, a varied sponge- and algae-enriched diet, and sufficient swimming space, the Annularis Angelfish will thrive as a centerpiece specimen—displaying both striking coloration and engaging behavior that make it a true highlight of any large marine aquarium.