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Little Shop of Coral

Zebra Japanese Swallowtail Angelfish (Genicanthus melanospilos)

Zebra Japanese Swallowtail Angelfish (Genicanthus melanospilos)

$180.00 CAD
$180.00 CAD
Sale Sold out
Sex

The Zebra Japanese Swallowtail Angel is a stunning, open-water angelfish that is known for being one of the more reef friendly angel options. Unlike many dwarf and large angels that pick at rock and corals, Genicanthus angels are primarily planktivores, so they typically leave corals alone. They are active, elegant swimmers with a sleek profile and strong colour patterning, making them a premium choice for larger reef systems.

Why we love it

  • One of the more reef compatible angelfish groups (Genicanthus)

  • Elegant swimmer with a bold “zebra” pattern

  • Male and female variants look noticeably different, great display options

Suggested parameters

  • Temperature: 24–26°C (75–79°F)

  • Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG

  • pH: 8.1–8.4

  • Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH

  • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0

  • Nitrate: Under 20 ppm (stable is best)

Care and temperament

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Temperament: Peaceful

  • Reef safe: Yes (generally considered reef safe with corals)

  • Minimum tank size: 125 gallons recommended (larger is better for long-term swimming space)

Diet

Swallowtail angels are planktivores and do best with frequent, smaller feedings.

  • Frozen mysis and enriched brine shrimp

  • Finely chopped seafood and quality frozen blends

  • High-quality pellets (many will accept once settled)

  • Feed small amounts 2 to 3 times per day when possible

Compatibility and tankmates

  • Generally peaceful with most reef fish

  • Can be kept singly, as a pair, or in a harem setup in very large tanks

  • Avoid very aggressive fish that may bully it

  • Provide open swimming space plus rockwork for shelter

Male vs Female

  • Male: Typically shows stronger contrast and more dramatic fin shape and colour accents

  • Female: More subtle patterning, same sleek body and elegant swimming behaviour

What you are buying

  • You will receive: 1 Zebra Japanese Swallowtail Angelfish (Genicanthus melanospilos)

  • Variant options: Male or Female (based on availability)

  • Colour, pattern, and size can vary between individuals

As with all fish, slow acclimation is recommended, and quarantine is encouraged when possible.

View full details

LIGHT

LOW: Place coral at the bottom of the tank. Depending on the type, coral may need to be placed off sand and therefore mounted on a ceramic disc of piece of rock.

MEDIUM: Place coral at mid-range of the tank. Best placed/glued on top of a rock scape at mid-range height. 

HIGH: Place coral from mid range to just below water level. SPS coral are shallow growing so they require and are able to tolerate intense light.

FLOW

LOW: Most soft coral do well with a small, gentle pulse. There are certain corals that can even be placed in areas of indirect flow, meaning places aside a rock structure or set into a entrance to a cave style space.

MEDIUM: Many LPS types of coral prefer medium pulse current. Most Euphyllia or corals that have more tissue structure connected to their skeleton, don’t like to be in a high flow area like the direct flow of the wave pump.

HIGH: Similar to high light, SPS enjoy being in some heavy current. Most LPS and SPS that branch encrust or plate prefer high flow that simulates the top water waves.

SKILL

ENTRY: While some may say beginner level, "Entry" is a good term to be used when starting out in the world of corals and marine life. Prior to adding livestock, you want to ensure that your reef has the proper parameters including zero levels of ammonia and nitrite. Seeing traces of nitrate in your waters is a good sign - just keep them at a lower level of 2ppm to 10ppm. Maintaining correct temperature and salinity are a huge factor to stable parameters. Starting to monitor your PH, alkalinity, calcium and magnesium is a great habit to get into to keep a successful reef.

While some soft coral don’t require too much light, having a proper reef light that puts out the proper pars is very important. You'll also want to have a good amount of flow and protected rock areas, as placing corals in their happy spot is ideal for success.

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