BLUE

Introduction: • Species: Blue Angelfish • Common Names: Blue Angelfish, Blue Marble Angelfish • Natural Habitat: Native to the Amazon River Basin, primarily found in slow-moving rivers, lakes, and flooded forest areas. Physical Characteristics: • Appearance: Features a vibrant blue coloration that can range from light to dark shades, often with marbled patterns. Its body is flattened and disc-shaped, with long, graceful fins. • Size: Typically grows up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. • Lifespan: Average lifespan is around 8-10 years with proper care. Habitat Requirements: • Tank Size: Minimum of 20 gallons for a pair; larger tanks are preferable for community setups. • Water Conditions: o Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C). o pH: 6.5-7.5. • Aquascaping: Ideal environments include dense planting, driftwood, and hiding spots to create a comfortable habitat. Diet: • Primary Diet: Omnivorous; in the wild, they consume small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. • Supplemental Feeding: Provide high-quality flake or pellet foods, along with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. • Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts multiple times a day for balanced nutrition. Compatibility: • Temperament: Generally peaceful but may exhibit territorial behavior during breeding. • Suitable Tank Mates: Compatible with other peaceful fish of similar size; avoid smaller species that may be viewed as prey. • Incompatibilities: Should not be kept with aggressive or fin-nipping fish that could stress the angelfish. Care Level: • Difficulty: Moderate; requires stable water conditions and a varied diet to thrive. • Health Monitoring: Regularly check for signs of disease, including protozoan infections and fin rot. Breeding: • Breeding in Captivity: Can be bred in captivity with the right conditions; pairs form monogamous bonds and choose clean surfaces for spawning. • Spawning: They are egg layers; both parents actively protect and care for the eggs until they hatch. Economic Considerations: • Market Demand: High demand among freshwater aquarium enthusiasts due to their stunning color and elegance. • Wholesale/Retail Pricing: Prices are influenced by their availability and popularity, typically falling within a moderate to high range. Sustainability and Conservation: • Wild Population: Generally stable; threats include habitat destruction and overcollection. • Aquaculture Efforts: Increasing success in captive breeding has lessened reliance on wild-caught specimens. • Regulations: Compliance with local regulations and CITES is essential in the trade and importation of freshwater fish. Conclusion: The Blue Angelfish is a sought-after species in freshwater aquariums, admired for its striking appearance and calm nature. With appropriate care and attention to their specific needs, these angelfish can thrive, adding beauty and enjoyment to the aquarium experience for many years.