Flame Angelfish
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Actinopterygii
- Order: Perciformes
- Family: Pomacanthidae
- Genus: Centropyge
- Species: Centropyge loricula (Günther, 1874)
Common Names
- Flame Angelfish
- Flaming Angelfish
- Japanese Pygmy Angelfish
- Dwarf Flame Angel
Description
Physical Characteristics
The Flame Angelfish is one of the most vibrant members of the dwarf angelfish family, displaying a striking fiery-red to orange body with vertical black bars on its flanks. The dorsal and anal fins are edged with iridescent blue, with slight regional color variations—individuals from the Marquesas Islands often lack the black vertical bars. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with males being slightly larger and more vividly colored than females. In captivity, they typically reach up to 10 cm (4 inches) in length, while wild specimens can grow slightly larger, up to 15 cm (6 inches).
Habitat & Distribution
Flame Angelfish are native to the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean. They are commonly found in the coral reefs of the Marshall, Line, and Cook Islands and are occasionally observed near the Hawaiian Islands. Their preferred habitats are clear lagoons and seaward reefs, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 60 meters (16 to 197 feet), where they graze on algae and organic detritus.
Behavior & Ecology
- Flame Angelfish are naturally shy but become more confident once acclimated to their surroundings.
- They are active swimmers, frequently seen grazing along rocky crevices and reef structures.
- In the wild, they form harems consisting of one dominant male and multiple females.
- They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning individuals begin life as females and may later transition into males under certain social conditions.
- Spawning occurs in the late afternoon or dusk, with pairs rising in the water column to release eggs and sperm into open water.
Diet
- Primarily feeds on benthic algae and detritus in the wild.
- In captivity, they require a balanced diet that includes marine algae, spirulina, high-quality angelfish preparations, and meaty items like brine shrimp and krill.
- A varied diet is essential to prevent nutritional deficiencies and maintain vibrant coloration.
Aquarium Care
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (larger is preferable for stability and compatibility).
- Reef Compatibility: Considered reef-safe with caution—some individuals may nip at stony and soft corals or clam mantles.
- Water Parameters: Requires high water quality with stable parameters.
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Specific Gravity: 1.020-1.025
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: Low (<10 ppm)
- Behavior: Can be territorial towards other dwarf angelfish, so tank mates should be chosen carefully.
- Best Tank Mates: Peaceful or semi-aggressive species that can tolerate minor territorial disputes.
Breeding & Reproduction
- Breeding in captivity is extremely challenging due to their complex social structure and open-water spawning behavior.
- Requires a large tank with simulated dusk lighting for natural spawning behaviors.
- Larvae are pelagic and difficult to rear due to their dietary needs.
- Commercial breeding efforts have had limited success.
Conservation & Sustainability
- Currently not classified as threatened, but over-collection for the aquarium trade can impact local populations.
- Ethical sourcing from sustainable fisheries and captive-bred specimens is encouraged to minimize environmental impact.
Additional Notes
- One of the most sought-after dwarf angelfish due to its stunning coloration and dynamic behavior.
- Regular feeding and a well-maintained environment are key to longevity and health.
- Ideal for experienced marine aquarists due to their specific care requirements.
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