Lamarck Angelfish

Lamarck Angelfish

Species:
Genicanthus lamarck

 

Common Names:
Lamarck’s Angelfish, Blackstripe Angelfish

 

Origin:
Indo-Pacific (Japan, Philippines, Indonesia, Australia)

 

Adult Size:
~9–10 inches

 

Lifespan:
10–15 years with proper care

 

Appearance & Coloration

The Lamarck Angelfish is an elegant and refined species known for its soft coloration and graceful swimming behavior. It features a pale blue to silver body accented by bold black vertical stripes that extend from the dorsal fin through the body. Subtle blue edging on the fins enhances its understated beauty, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists who appreciate clean, natural reef aesthetics over overly flashy coloration.

Sexual dimorphism is present — males often show slightly stronger contrast and fin extension, while females appear more subdued.

 

Temperament & Behavior

Peaceful and calm, Lamarck Angelfish are among the most reef-compatible angelfish species available. They are active open-water swimmers but rarely display aggression, making them ideal for large community reef tanks. Best kept singly, as a bonded pair, or in a harem (1 male with multiple females) in sufficiently large aquariums.

 

Tank Size Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons

• Recommended Tank Size: 180+ gallons

They require long tanks with open swimming areas and stable water conditions.

 

Placement & Habitat

Prefers mid-to-upper water column and open swimming zones rather than tight rockwork. Lamarck Angelfish thrive in tanks with open layouts and moderate rock structures along the perimeter.

 

Lighting Requirements

• Lighting: Moderate to High

They adapt well to reef lighting and show best coloration under bright, natural-spectrum lighting.

 

Water Flow

• Flow: Moderate to High

Enjoys strong, consistent flow that supports their active swimming nature.

 

Diet & Feeding

Lamarck Angelfish are planktivores/omnivores.

 

Diet Includes:

• Mysis shrimp

• Brine shrimp

• Copepods

• High-quality pellets and flakes

• Angelfish-specific frozen foods

 

Feeding Frequency:
2–3 times daily. They are typically excellent feeders and adapt quickly to prepared foods.

 

Reef Compatibility

• Reef Safe: Yes

One of the few angelfish species considered truly reef safe, as they feed primarily in the water column and do not nip at corals or clam mantles.

 

Care Level

Moderate

Best suited for hobbyists with larger, established aquariums. Hardy once acclimated and less prone to coral nipping than most angelfish.

 

Compatibility Notes

Compatible with other peaceful reef fish including tangs, wrasses, chromis, anthias, and fairy wrasses. Avoid housing with highly aggressive species that may intimidate them.

 

Health & Husbandry Tips

• Requires excellent water quality and oxygenation

• Quarantine recommended before introduction

• Stable parameters and frequent feedings support long-term health

 

Fun Fact

Lamarck Angelfish belong to the Genicanthus genus — a group of angelfish known for being open-water planktivores, which is why they are among the safest angelfish choices for reef aquariums.