Cortez Angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus)

Cortez Angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus)

Discover the Stunning Cortez Angelfish

The Cortez Angelfish is a large, striking species known for its bold colors and impressive presence. Native to the Eastern Pacific, this beautiful fish is a favorite among experienced aquarists for its regal appearance and hardy nature. With its vibrant patterns and eye-catching size, the Cortez Angelfish is a perfect choice for those seeking a true showpiece in their saltwater aquarium.

Appearance: The Cortez Angelfish undergoes a dramatic color transformation as it matures. Juveniles display a stunning electric blue and black body with bright yellow accents and vertical stripes, while adults develop an elegant grayish-brown body with bold yellow and blue highlights around the face and fins. The adult's pectoral fins are adorned with striking blue edges, while its face is framed by electric blue and yellow markings, making this angelfish a truly majestic species. The contrast between its juvenile and adult stages adds to the allure of this species.

Behavior: Cortez Angelfish are active and confident swimmers, often becoming the dominant presence in the aquarium. While generally peaceful, they can become territorial, especially as they mature, and may show aggression towards other angelfish or similarly sized fish. They are best suited for large aquariums where they have plenty of space to establish their territory and swim freely. Despite their territorial nature, they can coexist with other robust tankmates in a properly sized and structured environment.

Diet: Cortez Angelfish are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet. In the wild, they graze on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In captivity, they do well on a mix of high-quality marine-based pellets, flakes, and frozen foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood. Supplementing their diet with marine algae and spirulina will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration. A well-balanced and diverse diet is essential to keeping them in top condition.

Tank Requirements: Due to their size and active nature, Cortez Angelfish require a spacious aquarium of at least 180 gallons. The tank should be well-structured with plenty of live rock to provide hiding spots, grazing areas, and ample swimming space. Maintaining excellent water quality with stable parameters is crucial for their well-being. A tank with plenty of open space and hiding spots will ensure the Cortez Angelfish can thrive without feeling overly stressed or territorial.

Tankmates: Cortez Angelfish can be semi-aggressive and territorial, especially towards other large fish. Suitable tankmates include other large, robust species such as tangs, triggers, and groupers. Avoid housing them with smaller or more delicate species, as they may be harassed. This fish can be kept with other angelfish of the same genus, but it’s advisable to introduce them all at the same time to reduce territorial disputes. Make sure the tank is large enough to accommodate multiple large fish, and provide plenty of space and food sources to minimize aggression.

Reef Aquarium Compatibility: Cortez Angelfish are not considered reef-safe, as they have a tendency to nip at corals, sponges, and sessile invertebrates. They are best kept in fish-only or fish-only with live rock (FOWLR) setups where they can graze and interact with other fish without damaging delicate reef inhabitants.

Max Size: The Cortez Angelfish can grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) in length, making it one of the larger angelfish species. Due to its size, it requires a large, well-maintained aquarium to thrive.

Origin: The Cortez Angelfish is native to the Eastern Pacific, ranging from the Gulf of California to Peru, including the Galápagos Islands. They are commonly found in rocky reefs and coral environments.

Interesting Facts:

• Cortez Angelfish undergo a dramatic color change from juvenile to adult, making them visually captivating throughout their life.

• They are known for their hardy nature, making them a rewarding species for experienced aquarists who can provide the right conditions.

• Due to their size and bold colors, the Cortez Angelfish often becomes the centerpiece of any aquarium they inhabit.

Disclaimer: Aquarium Arts cannot guarantee compatibility with your current fish or the fish you buy and cannot be held liable for fish lost due to aggression.