FOR AGES 3 YEARS TO 18 YEARS
At Kidadl we pride ourselves on offering families original ideas to make the most of time spent together at home or out and about, wherever you are in the world. We strive to recommend the very best things that are suggested by our community and are things we would do ourselves - our aim is to be the trusted friend to parents.
We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family.
Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability.
Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong.
Are you looking to create a mini reef aquarium to brighten up your home? Well, a pair of Cortez angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus) of Pomacanthus genus can be the most unique addition to your marine pet collection. A territorial marine fish species, Cortez angelfishes are highly popular in the aquarium trade. On one hand, this fish can definitely add a touch of exclusivity to your beautiful aquarium but on the other hand, the negative effects of overexploitation need to be managed with the help of proper preservation and conservation measures.
Found in the Pacific Ocean, this saltwater fish can thrive well in tropical climates. Like most coral reef fishes, they are great at the art of camouflaging as the bright coloration of their body helps them to hide among the colorful corals. The juveniles portray a distinct behavior and differ in appearance. They can be found in tidal pools while an adult prefers to stay close to corals and rocky surfaces.
For more relatable content, check out these stingray facts and ray facts for kids.
A Cortez angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus) of the Pomacanthidae family is a glamorous marine cichlid.
Cortez angelfishes have been categorized under the class Actinopterygii, genus Pomacanthus.
Cortez angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus) are quite plentiful within their habitat range. Additionally, the population trend of this species shows a stable growth with no major threats apart from excessive fishing and harvesting.
The eastern Pacific Ocean teems with a large population of Cortez angelfish. The fish can be spotted in the northern Gulf of California, Mexico, and stretching down to Peru. Several islands like the Galapagos, Malpelo, and Cocos Islands record nomadic populations of this fish.
The habitat of this deep-sea dwelling species comprises rocky reefs and adjoining sandy surfaces. The juveniles can be found around tidal rock pools. Also, seeing a Cortez angelfish in a reef tank is pretty common.
Juveniles normally dwell solitarily while the adults live in loose aggregations or form pairs. They can also adjust well with other aquarium mates.
In captivity, an angelfish can survive for a maximum of 10 years if it is offered proper care and a nutritious diet.
The breeding period of the Cortez angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus) starts from midsummer and continues until early fall. They can be territorial and aggressive during the reproduction cycle. They engage in spawning. Females release the eggs while the males eject sperm to fertilize the eggs. Juveniles are found in large numbers from August to November as this is when the majority of the eggs hatch.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, the Cortez angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus) is abundant and there is no urgency regarding its conservation. The species has been classified under the Least Concern group.
Cortez angelfishes draw resemblance to the French angelfish in appearance. The coloration of a Cortez angelfish juvenile and adult varies. This ray-finned fish possesses a compressed body and blunt snout. A juvenile comes in the shade of black with semicircular yellow and blue stripes. The coloration changes to dark blue in adults with green-blue dorsal fins. A prominent yellow arc is visible at the backside of the pectoral fins.
In marine biology, this species is believed to be one of the prettiest fishes that adds charm and glitz to any aquarium. The vibrant yellow and blue coloration of its body is extremely catchy and can instantly grab the attention of onlookers.
Communication is established by releasing bile and urine into seawater that carries chemical signals to the other members.
The average length of a Cortez angelfish (Pomacanthus zonipectus) is approximately 10.2 in (26 cm). However, it can measure up to 18.9 in (48 cm) in length. This species is larger in length when contrasted with the Altum angelfish, measuring about 7 in (18 cm).
The speed range of Cortez angelfishes lacks proper description and needs to be further studied for an accurate speed. However, the lower depth limit that this angelfish has been spotted swimming at is 164 ft (50 m).
The maximum weight of Cortez angelfishes can go up to 2 lb (0.9 kg). The weight of the fish depends on the size of its body.
Both sexes of this species are regarded by their common names, a male and female adult Cortez angelfish.
A baby Cortez angelfish is referred to as a fry but after it grows its scales and fins, it is called a fingerling. Another name for baby Cortez angelfishes is juveniles.
Angelfishes are omnivorous and they largely feed on sponges and colonial tunicates. Their diet also comprises algae and small crustaceans like shrimps.
Mostly occurring in pairs, Cortez angelfishes have a large-scale distribution within their geographical boundaries, unlike rare black phantom angelfish.
Angelfishes can be the perfect pets for marine life admirers. However, before grabbing an aquarium be sure to be aware of certain important facts. Angelfishes are reef compatible but with caution. The temperature range must be from 72-78 F (22-25.5 C) and a pH of 8.1-8.4 has to be maintained in the aquarium. An aquarium with the preferable size of 100 gal (454 l) can offer room to about four pairs of angelfish. Beginners tend to go for a smaller size of about 20-25 gal (91-114 l) but it must be remembered that these marine fishes need adequate space to move about freely. Corals and crustaceans can be added to beautify the aquarium. Also, you must make sure that the aquarium mates are not aggressive towards each other.
This saltwater marine species is diurnal.
A recent survey of the coral reefs of Gorgona Island, Columbia has revealed that the existence of this species is greater near the coralline bottoms. The density is thinner in the sandy substratum while they can be rarely traced to tidal pools.
The species is endemic to the tropical waters of Mexico. The name Cortez angelfish has been given to this species because of the place of its existence, the sea of Cortez. A generous distribution of this species can be witnessed in the eastern Pacific Ocean. It's one of the very few marine fishes caught from Mexican waterbodies for the aquarium trade.
Apart from angelfish, some species of wrasses, boxfishes, pufferfishes, and leatherjackets are known to have a diet consisting of sponges with the lowest amounts of spicules. Sponges form 70-90 percent of their regular diet. So, why do angelfishes consume sponges after all? Some believe that high levels of competition have led angelfishes to opt for something that is not consumed by many. Nevertheless, they also feed on shrimps and algae. Angelfish can eat sponges due to their strong jaws and teeth that they can use to break through the tough sponge material.
Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly animal facts for everyone to discover! Learn more about some other fish from our giant grouper facts and Nassau grouper facts pages.
You can even occupy yourself at home by coloring in one of our free printable emperor angelfish coloring pages.
Read The Disclaimer
At Kidadl we pride ourselves on offering families original ideas to make the most of time spent together at home or out and about, wherever you are in the world. We strive to recommend the very best things that are suggested by our community and are things we would do ourselves - our aim is to be the trusted friend to parents.
We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family.
Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability.
Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong.
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