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Masked Angelfish

Masked Angelfish

Origin

🇩🇿

Algeria

Habitat Size

150-400 Liters

Water Type

Salt Water

Water Temperature

23º-27ºC

Cost in India

₹200 - ₹300

Size

8 - 10 inches (Medium)

Diet

Omnivore

A Masked Angelfish with a light blue body and black mask and tail swimming
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 18 Nov 2025

Masked Angelfish is a striking marine animal native to the Hawaiian islands. It boasts a pearly white body and has a distinctive dark “mask” around the eyes in the female or vivid yellow-orange accents in the male depending on the maturity and sex.

The Japanese Masked Swallowtail Angelfish (Another name of Masked Angelfish) is not unlike normal reef angelfish who live in shallow water. They are typically found at a considerable depth requiring cool water, very clean and a mature aquarium to thrive. Given its rarity and the technical demands required for its care, this species is suited for experienced marine aquarists.

Masked Angelfish size

The size of the Masked angelfish is 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) in length. Its size demands adequate swimming space and vertical room.

Lifespan of Masked Angelfish

They can live up to 10 years or more under optimum conditions. However, in many hobby setups the lifespan may be shorter if water parameters and husbandry aren’t optimal.

Masked Angelfish Price

The Masked angelfish hawaii is extremely rare. This is why it comes with a very high price. The Masked Angelfish price in India is ₹10 to 20 lakhs or more.

Best Tank Mates

  1. Peaceful mid-to-large sized fish species that occupy different zones (e.g., some tangs, butterflyfish)
  2. Other semi-aggressive but non-coral-nipping species
  3. Wrasses and gobies that keep to the substrate and are not direct competitors

Avoid Pairing With

  1. Very small schooling fish that may be eaten or harassed
  2. Highly territorial or aggressive species (large groupers, triggers)
  3. Invertebrates or corals if you cannot guarantee reef-safe behaviour (although the Masked Angelfish is more reef-safe than many, caution is warranted)

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Japanese Masked Swallowtail Angelfish Habitat

Initial Setup Cost

₹10,000 - ₹30,000

Water Temperature

23º -27ºC

Water Type

Salt Water

PH Level

8.1 - 8.4

Given its deep-reef origin and rarity, the Masked Angelfish has specific requirements. Here are recommended parameters:

Parameter

Details

Minimum Tank Size

200+ gallons (~750 litres or more)

Substrate & Decor

Sand or fine crushed coral, lots of live rock with caves and crevices for hiding and grazing.

Water Temperature

Cooler than typical tropical marine fish: about 18-25 °C (~65-77 °F) recommended.

Flow & Lighting

- Moderate water movement, stable conditions

- Lighting appropriate for rockscape (reef lighting may be optional if corals are not present).

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Decor

Dietary Needs of Masked Angelfish

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹200 - ₹ 300

Here’s a table summarising dietary needs:

Food Type

Examples and Notes

Planktonic/ meaty foods

Frozen mysis, brine shrimp, finely chopped seafood

Herbivore/ algae-rich foods

Spirulina flakes, marine algae sheets

Supplementary spongiform diet

Sponge-based angelfish preparations

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Health & Care of Japanese Masked Swallowtail Angelfish

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

White spot / ick

Velvet

Parasitic infections

Bacterial infections

Swim bladder disease

Signs of good health

Active

Bright coloration

Good apetite

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Dull coloring

Tattered fins

Frequent hiding

  1. Perform regular water changes
  2. Monitor parameters daily
  3. Provide plenty of hiding spots
  4. Avoid copper-based medications
  5. Quarantine new arrivals
  6. Ensure sufficient tank flow and aeration

Prerequisites for a Fish

Adequate tank space

Cleanliness

Effort & commitment

Enriching Environment

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Written by

Happy Pet Team

Author

Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can Masked Angelfish be kept with other fish?

Yes, Masked Angelfish can be kept with other non-aggressive marine species, but care should be taken to ensure compatibility and adequate space.

What kind of environment do Masked Angelfish need?

Masked Angelfish need a well-established reef tank with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing, stable water conditions, and adequate lighting.

How do I maintain the water quality for my Masked Angelfish?

Regular water changes, using a high-quality filtration system, and monitoring water parameters like pH, temperature, and salinity are crucial for maintaining water quality.