Male Bellus Angel (Genicanthus Bellus)

Also Known As: Ornate Bellus Angel Male

Compatibility and Behavior The male Bellus Angel (Genicanthus bellus) is one of the hobby's most compelling arguments that angelfish and reef tanks can coexist. As a planktivore, it feeds primarily from the water column rather than picking at rockwork, which makes it one of the more reliably reef-safe angelfish available — a genuinely rare distinction in this family. 

The sexual dimorphism in this species is striking enough that males and females are easy to mistake for different fish entirely. Where females wear bold horizontal black banding, males show a smooth pale bluish-grey to light beige body accented by clean horizontal yellow to golden stripes along the flanks, with subtly elongated tail lobes that give them a sleek, lyretail profile. Keeping a male alongside one or more females in a larger system is one of the more visually rewarding combinations in the reef hobby — the contrast between the two is genuinely something to see. Temperament-wise, males are generally peaceful community fish, though they may show mild dominance toward smaller planktivores in tighter quarters.

Male Bellus Angels tend to come in fairly large at over 4", so keep in mind that you will need plenty of space to keep one happy, especially if looking to pair with a female.

Aquarium Requirements A 120-gallon minimum with ample horizontal swimming space, strong yet varied flow, and open, airy rockwork suits this active mid-water cruiser well. Structured ledges and overhangs provide the security it's looking for — reflecting its natural deep-reef slope habitat — but it's not a fish that spends much time tucked into caves. A secure, tight-fitting lid is important; this is a pelagic, active species and it can jump when startled or chased. Feed multiple times daily with mysis, enriched brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood, and quality marine pellets to keep it in top condition.

Specifications

Approximate Size: 4–5"

Diet: Omnivore; primarily planktivorous, accepts small meaty foods and quality pellets and flake

Origin: Western and Central Pacific deep reef slopes

Care Level: Moderate to advanced

Reef Safe: Yes — among the more reliably reef-safe angelfish when well fed

Temperament: Peaceful; may show mild dominance toward smaller planktivores

Minimum Tank Size: 90 gallons

Special Considerations: Tight-fitting lid essential; no special substrate requirement; benefits from frequent small feedings and strong oxygen-rich flow; striking sexual dimorphism — can be paired with females in larger systems for natural social behavior