Centropyge loriculus

Common Names:

Flame Angelfish

Synonyms:

Holacanthus loriculus

Family:

Pomacanthidae

Category:

Pomacanthidae

Distribution:

Pacific - Western; Scattered reef areas in the tropical central to western Pacific; Hawaii, Society Islands, Australia, New Guinea, Philippines and Guam.

Main Ecosystem:

Reef; Reef

Temperament:

Timid; Dwarf angels are known prey items for many larger reef fishes. Which explains their inquisitive and alert behaviour. Placing these fish with larger predatory species should be avoided (ie: Groupers/Bass, Lionfish, Triggers). Correspondingly, smaller docile tankmates should be avoided. As they will tend to get chased around the tank regularly. Although many keepers have successfully housed Flame angels with smaller species, caution should still be considered. Dwarf angels are best introduced into communities last or close to it.

Diet:

Herbivore; Herbivore

Care:

Dwarf angels, unlike their larger brethren are notably not as dependent on sponge materials for nutrition. Algae is very important, and accounts for nearly 70% of their total intake in natural habitats. Some keepers will culture rocks within a refugium system, allowing them to overgrow with algae and then placing them within the main tank for feeding. However dried flakes, frozen fares and fresh greens will be readily accepted. A varied diet will ensure healthy colouration and metabolic develope

pH:

Temperature:

24°C - 28°C

75°F - 82°F

Specific Gravity:

1.022 - 1.026

Potential Size:

Male: 10cm (3.9")
Female: 10cm (3.9")

Water Region:

Middle; Middle

Activity:

Diurnal; Diurnal

Gender:

As with other dwarf angels they are synchronous protogynic hermaphrodites. They start out sexually undifferentiated, develop into females, and with environmental influences will develop into males. Males are typically larger and brighter red.

Breeding:

The species has been bred in captivity with some young being raised to small size. Inter-species hybrids have been known.

Variants:

Comments:

Minimum tank size: 30 gallons.

Main Colours:

Markings:

Striped Vertical

Mouth:

Normal

Tail:

Convex