Holacanthus - A Look At The Genus Holacanthus

The genus Holacanthus contains eight species that are somewhat common in the marine aquarium hobby. They are all larger angelfish that can attain lengths of up to 18 inches in the wild. They also have similar dietary needs and are grazers of sponges, algae, polyps and small crustaceans in the wild.

Because of their diets, they are not often seen in reef aquariums as they pose a great dangers to corals present. They are normally seen in very large fish only aquariums. Together with other species of surgeonfish, triggerfish and other species of large angelfish, they are usually the mainstay in such aquariums.

Scientific Name : Holacanthus Ciliaris
Origin : Caribbean
Maximum Size : 18 Inches

Go to "Queen Angelfish" for a full guide on this species. Queen angels are a very popular and beautiful marine aquarium fish for larger aquariums without corals.

While juveniles are can be had for as little as $50, large show quality queen angels can break the $200 mark.

Scientific Name : Holacanthus Bermudensis, H.Isabelita
Origin : Caribbean
Maximum Size : 18 Inches

Very similar to the Queen angelfish, the only trait that effectively tells the two apart is the lack of the apparent blue crown that is apparent in the queen angelfish.

Two species are known, Holacanthus Bermudensis and Holacanthus Isabelita.

Scientific Name : Holacanthus Africanus
Origin : Western Africa
Maximum Size : 17 Inches

Stunning as a juvenile but somewhat bland as an adult, Holacanthus Africanus is an uncommon fish in the marine aquarium hobby and is an expensive purchase.

Scientific Name : Holacanthus Passer
Origin : Eastern Pacific
Maximum Size : 15 Inches

The King angelfish is found in some places in California and across South America. Considered a medium level difficulty fish to keep in captivity. Juvenile coloration is bright while adults are as seen on the right.

Scientific Name : Holacanthus Tricolor
Origin : Western Atlantic
Maximum Size : 13 Inches

Holacanthus Tricolor is a true beauty that is bright yellow with a large black are on its main body. Considered moderately difficult to keep. May be difficult to get feeding.

Scientific Name : Holacanthus Clarionensis
Origin : East Pacific
Maximum Size : 16 Inches

The Clarion Angelfish is a very rare species that fetches huge sums of money for a healthy specimen. They are also very hardy. Juveniles have stunning colors with a light orange body with electric blue stripes down its side. These stripes disappear as they age.

Normally collected from the waters around Mexico, a permit is required for their collection and export. This permit is very difficult to come by, which explains why they are so expensive.

Scientific Name : Holacanthus Limbaughi
Origin : Clipperton Atoll
Maximum Size : 16 Inches

Even rarer than the Clarion Angelfish, Holacanthus LImbaughi is found only in a small area off Clipperton Atoll. Although somewhat bland looking, expect to pay more for them than even the Clarion angelfish.