Passer Angel - Juvenile (Atlantic)
The Passer angel is also known as the king angelfish, and it is indeed very impressive. It sports an uncommon fiery orange color over its body, scales edged in deep blue. Its tail fin is yellow, and there is a bright white stripe behind the pectoral fin. On its forehead is a blue 'crown' marking. As a juvenile it is mainly yellow with white vertical stripes edged in blue. Not all fish transition when at the same size, but it usually begins when they are approximately 3 inches. Males and females are visually identical.
The Passer angel can grow to be up to 14 inches long and needs a large aquarium as an adult, we recommend at least 220 gallons. It may become aggressive, especially towards other angelfish. Because of this it should be the last fish added to the aquarium.
Angelfish may nip on many types of corals, especially LPS corals, clam mantles, sponges, and sometimes soft corals. They do not typically bother SPS corals or other types of invertebrates. They feel most secure when there is plenty of live rock to hide in, as well as open space for swimming. Diet should include plenty of marine algae and Spirulina, Sponge matter, frozen Mysis shrimp, half shell clams, and other high quality meaty items. It should be fed 2-3 times a day.
