The Flame Angelfish (Centropyge loricula) is a vibrant marine fish renowned for its striking appearance and active demeanor. Native to the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean, it is a favored choice among marine aquarists.
Key Information
• Small fish safe: ✅ Yes
• Small invert safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Coral safe: ⚠️ With caution
• Minimum tank size: 265 liters (70 gallons)
• Adult size: Up to 10 cm (4 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous (algae, crustaceans, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, spirulina, seaweed sheets, pellets)
• Be aware of: May nip at stony and soft corals, sessile invertebrates, and clam mantles. Requires a well-established tank with ample live rock for grazing. Can be territorial; best kept singly unless in a large aquarium.
Appearance and Coloration
The Flame Angelfish boasts a bright orange-red body adorned with vertical black stripes on its sides. The posterior parts of the dorsal and anal fins feature alternating short purple-blue and black bands, adding to its allure. Notably, specimens from the Marquesas Islands lack the vertical black bars. Males are generally larger and exhibit more intense coloration than females.
Natural Habitat and Behavior
In the wild, Flame Angelfish inhabit clear lagoons and seaward reefs, typically from the lower surge zone to depths of about 57 meters. They are benthopelagic and often remain close to shelter, exhibiting secretive behavior. These fish are protogynous hermaphrodites, starting life as females and later changing sex to become males. They form harems consisting of one male and several females.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters
To ensure the well-being of the Flame Angelfish in captivity:
• Minimum Tank Size: A 70-gallon (265 liters) aquarium is recommended to provide ample space for swimming and territory establishment.
• Water Parameters:
• Temperature: 72°F – 78°F (22°C – 25.5°C)
• pH: 8.1 – 8.4
• Specific Gravity: 1.020 – 1.025
• Aquascaping: Incorporate plenty of live rock to create hiding spots and grazing areas, mimicking their natural reef environment.
• Lighting: Standard reef aquarium lighting is suitable.
• Water Movement: Moderate to strong flow to simulate their natural habitat.
Maintaining stable water conditions is crucial for their health.
Diet and Feeding
Flame Angelfish are omnivorous with a diet that includes algae and crustaceans in the wild. In captivity:
• Diet: Offer a varied diet consisting of:
• Mysis shrimp
• Brine shrimp
• Spirulina
• Seaweed sheets
• High-quality marine pellets
• Feeding Frequency: Feed small amounts multiple times daily to meet their metabolic needs.
Providing a diet rich in marine algae is essential, as they graze on algae in their natural habitat.
Compatibility and Social Structure
Flame Angelfish can exhibit territorial behavior, especially towards conspecifics.
• 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. 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.
Important Considerations
• Reef Compatibility: While often considered reef-safe, individual specimens may nip at stony and soft corals, sessile invertebrates, and clam mantles. Monitoring their behavior is essential.
• 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, Flame Angelfish can be a vibrant and rewarding addition to a marine aquarium.