The Blue Girdled Angelfish (Pomacanthus navarchus), also known as the Majestic Angelfish, is a marine angelfish from the Indo-Pacific region. It is one of the smallest of the larger Pomacanthus species and can live up to 21 years. It

Distribution and Habitat

is native to the tropical Indo-Pacific, with a range extending from Indonesia and the Philippines to northern and eastern Australia, the Great Barrier Reef, Micronesia, and Hawaii. It is found at depths down to about 40 meters on outer reef slopes, channels, and lagoons in coral-rich habitats.

Physical Description

The body is laterally flattened. Adults display three main colored sections: the anterior section is lemon yellow, the central section is deep blue, and the posterior section is reticulated in bright yellow and blue. The sections are separated by pale blue bands edged with black. The mouth and lips are blue. A long spine on the gill cover serves as a defense mechanism. Juveniles are dark blue with slightly curved white lateral stripes. The transition from juvenile to adult coloring occurs quite abruptly. The Blue Girdled Angelfish

Diet and Feeding

feeds mainly on sponges, tunicates, algae, zooplankton, and small invertebrates.

Behavior and Reproduction

This species is territorial and generally found alone, though occasionally in pairs or small groups. It is a protogynous hermaphrodite.

Aquarium Care

The Blue Girdled Angelfish requires a tank of at least 135 gallons with stable water conditions and abundant live rock. Not considered reef-safe.

Conservation Status

Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.