Pomacanthus paru

Datasheet

General Description
The French Angelfish, scientifically known as Pomacanthus paru, belongs to the Pomacanthus genus of Angelfish, renowned for their stunning array of colors and patterns. These fish predominantly inhabit sponges, soft corals, tunicates, and macroalgae in their natural environment, exhibiting a significant contrast in appearance between juveniles and adults. With proper feeding, they can grow rapidly and achieve substantial size. While they may take some time to acclimate to aquarium conditions due to reliance on hand-fed diets, they are captivating additions to marine tanks.

Aquarium Suitability
Considered suitable for aquariums with care, the French Angelfish demands attentive consideration due to its specific requirements. These fish are not reef-safe and may exhibit aggression, especially towards timid tank mates. When selecting corals for tanks housing Angelfish, it is recommended to choose species such as Hammer corals, Bubble corals, Star polyps, and Disc anemones, which are less likely to be consumed. The species thrives best in tanks with ample swimming space, supplemented with hiding spots among live rocks.

Care and Hardiness
Known for their hardiness, French Angelfish adapt well to established aquariums with algae-rich environments. They require frequent feeding with a varied diet to promote health and vitality. These fish may initially display shyness upon introduction but can acclimate over time, though they may refuse food temporarily. Additionally, they are hermaphroditic, capable of changing gender based on environmental needs, and may produce grunting sounds when threatened.

Reef Suitability
The French Angelfish is not considered reef-safe due to its tendency to nibble at clams and consume soft corals, making it unsuitable for reef tank setups. However, selective choices in coral species can allow for the coexistence of these fish with certain corals, as long as caution is exercised in coral selection.

Aquarium Setup
Setting up an aquarium for French Angelfish involves providing ample swimming space, hiding places among live rocks, and a well-managed environment with a sufficient algae presence. It is advised to offer a varied diet, including macroalgae, microalgae, crustaceans, and sponges, to meet their nutritional needs effectively.

Behaviour
French Angelfish can exhibit aggressive behavior, particularly towards other fish species, necessitating cautious consideration when selecting tank mates. They may require time to adjust to new surroundings and tank dynamics, preferring to establish territories within the tank.

Feeding and Diet
To ensure the optimal health of French Angelfish, it is essential to feed them multiple times a day with a varied diet that includes larger crustaceans, macroalgae like seaweed and nori, microalgae such as spirulina, and other invertebrates. Providing a balanced diet contributes to their well-being and overall vitality.

Dimorphism
These fish showcase distinct dimorphism between juveniles and adults, with noticeable variations in coloration and patterns as they mature. Additionally, French Angelfish can be bred in captivity, offering the possibility of acquiring captive-bred specimens to support conservation efforts.

Habitat and Distribution
French Angelfish inhabit the West Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the western Atlantic regions, preferring habitats with rich sponge populations and ample food sources. Their distribution spans across these regions, showcasing their adaptability to various marine environments.