Japanese Swallowtail Angelfish — Male

Genicanthus semifasciatus  |  Reef Safe Angelfish

If the female is quiet elegance, the male is the showstopper. A bright yellow face, fine black bars across the upper body, and a sharp forked tail make the male Genicanthus semifasciatus one of the most striking angels you can put in a reef. Those half bands are where the species gets its name, and they're what make people stop at the glass.

Like all swallowtails, he leaves your corals and clams completely alone. He feeds on plankton in open water instead of picking at rockwork, so you get real angelfish presence without the risk that comes with Pomacanthus or dwarf angels. He's confident, active, and always out where you can see him.

Give him a mature reef of 125 gallons or more with plenty of open swimming room. He takes mysis, enriched brine, and quality frozen or pellet foods without fuss. Feed small amounts a few times a day to keep his color at its brightest.