Fin's Fish Guide
The Ornate angelfish (Genicanthus bellus) is a saltwater fish of the family Pomacanthidae that grows up to 18 cm.
Oceania: Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is., Tahiti, French Polynesia, Guam, Indonesia and others
Description
The Ornate angelfish is a marine angelfish (Pomacanthidae) from the western Pacific. The species grows to about 18 cm and has an elongate body with a deeply forked, swallowtail-shaped tail. Males have blue-white horizontal stripes, females a black band across the back. Unlike many angelfish it hovers in open water above steep reef slopes and eats mainly zooplankton. It changes sex; males and females are differently marked. The fish is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Ornate angelfish?
The Ornate angelfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body and is mainly white.
Where does the Ornate angelfish live?
The Ornate angelfish lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Oceania: Cocos Is. (Keel), Cook Is., Tahiti, French Polynesia, Guam, Indonesia and others
How big does the Ornate angelfish get?
The Ornate angelfish grows to a maximum of about 18 cm.
Is the Ornate angelfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Ornate angelfish is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Ornate angelfish edible?
Yes, the Ornate angelfish is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Genicanthus
More from the family Pomacanthidae
Want the complete picture on the Ornate angelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Ornate angelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.