The Orangeback Angelfish (Centropyge acanthops), also known as the Flameback Angelfish or African Pygmy Angelfish, is a vibrant marine species admired for its striking coloration and manageable size. Native to the Western Indian Ocean, it is a popular choice among marine aquarists.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: Yes
• Small invert safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Coral safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Minimum tank size: 208 liters (55 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 7.6 cm (3 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous, primarily feeding on algae and detritus; may also accept mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and high-quality angelfish preparations.
• Be aware of: May nip at corals and clam mantles; requires a well-established tank with ample live rock for grazing and hiding; can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards similar species.
Appearance and Coloration
The Orangeback Angelfish is distinguished by its vivid coloration:
• Body: A deep blue to purple hue covering the lower body.
• Back and Dorsal Fin: A bright orange to yellow swath extending from the head along the back to the tip of the dorsal fin.
• Caudal Fin: Yellow and somewhat transparent, distinguishing it from similar species.
This striking contrast makes the Orangeback Angelfish a visually appealing addition to marine aquariums.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, Orangeback Angelfish inhabit coral-rich areas of lagoons and outer reef slopes at depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters. They are often found in small groups or pairs, grazing on algae and detritus among the coral reefs. These fish are known for their agility and are often observed darting in and out of crevices in the reef structure.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Orangeback Angelfish in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 55-gallon (208 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide sufficient space for swimming and territory establishment.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 22°C – 25.5°C (72°F – 78°F)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping: Incorporate ample live rock to create hiding spots and grazing areas, mimicking their natural reef habitat.
• Lighting: Moderate lighting is suitable.
• Water Movement: Moderate flow to simulate their natural environment.
Maintaining stable water conditions and high water quality is crucial for their health. A mature, well-established aquarium with abundant live rock will support their natural grazing behavior and provide necessary shelter.
Diet and Feeding
Orangeback Angelfish are omnivorous, with a diet that includes both plant and animal matter:
• Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of:
• Marine algae and spirulina
• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• High-quality angelfish preparations
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts multiple times daily to meet their nutritional needs.
Providing ample live rock will allow natural grazing behavior, which is beneficial for their health and well-being. Initially, they may be shy and reluctant to eat; offering live or frozen foods can encourage feeding until they become accustomed to prepared foods.
Compatibility and Social Structure
Orangeback Angelfish can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards conspecifics and similar species:
• Social Structure: Best kept singly unless in a very large aquarium where multiple individuals can establish territories.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful towards other species but may become aggressive towards similar-looking fish.
• Compatible Tank Mates: Suitable companions include peaceful community fish such as gobies, blennies, and wrasses. Caution is advised when housing with other angelfish or species with similar coloration.
Observing their interactions and providing ample space can help mitigate aggressive behaviors. Due to their territorial nature, they should be housed with non-aggressive tank mates to prevent stress.
Important Considerations
• Reef Compatibility: While often considered reef-safe, individual specimens may nip at corals and clam mantles. Monitoring their behavior is essential, especially in reef setups.
• Acclimation: They may be shy upon introduction but typically become more confident over time.
• Health: Ensure a varied diet and stable water conditions to prevent common health issues.
With proper care and attention to their specific needs, Orangeback Angelfish can be a vibrant and rewarding addition to a marine aquarium.