Centropyge acanthops

Datasheet

General Description

The Orangeback Angelfish, also known as African Pygmy Angelfish or African Cherubfish, belongs to the Pomacanthidae family, specifically the Centropyge genus. These colorful fish are relatively small, growing up to about 10 cm, with some reaching 18 cm. They are renowned for their vibrant hues and are commonly found in the Western Indian Ocean, from Somalia to South Africa and around oceanic islands.

Aquarium Suitability

Centropyge and Paracentropyge, collectively known as Dwarf Angelfish, are popular for aquariums due to their manageable size and striking appearance. Although many species are not reef safe and may disturb certain corals, there are some exceptions with which success can be achieved. They can be kept in coral aquariums if chosen carefully and provided with suitable food, such as small crustaceans and microalgae.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

These Dwarf Angelfish have an average level of hardiness and require a well-established aquarium with ample hiding spots, especially when introduced to new environments. They are best housed in tanks of at least 200 liters, with good water quality parameters, including pH between 8.1-8.4, hardness (KH) of 8-12, and temperature ranging from 22.2-25.6°C.

Reef Suitability

The Orangeback Angelfish is often considered reef safe, but there is always a risk when adding them to a reef tank due to their potential coral-nibbling behavior. They may feed on coral mucus, posing a threat to some LPS, Zoanthus, and clams. With cautious selection and monitoring, they can coexist with certain corals like Hammer corals, Bubble corals, Star polyps, and Disc anemones.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for these Angelfish, provide ample space for swimming and territorial behavior. Include plenty of hiding places, rocks, and algae-covered surfaces for grazing. It is recommended to maintain a diverse diet, offering foods like macroalgae, microalgae, and algae-rich supplements to mimic their natural feeding habits.

Behaviour

Orangeback Angelfish can exhibit aggressive behavior towards other fish, particularly peaceful or docile species. To mitigate such aggression, ensure regular feeding, ample space, and numerous hiding spots to reduce territorial disputes. These fish may also nibble at clams, including Tridacna species, so close monitoring is essential when housing them with invertebrates.

Feeding and Diet

In captivity, these Dwarf Angelfish thrive on a diet of small crustaceans like Krill, Mysis, and Artemia, as well as macroalgae such as seaweed or nori. Additionally, incorporating Spirulina and fresh vegetables into their meals can help maintain their health and vibrant coloration. Supplementing with algae-rich foods is vital, especially in tanks lacking natural algae growth.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

The Orangeback Angelfish has the ability to change gender from female to male when necessary for reproduction. Captive breeding of these fish is feasible, and acquiring captive-bred specimens is encouraged to support sustainable practices in the aquarium trade.

Habitat and Distribution

These African Pygmy Angelfish are native to the Western Indian Ocean, ranging from East Africa to South Africa. They are commonly found in reefs and oceanic islands within their distribution range, showcasing their colorful presence and distinct behaviors in these marine ecosystems.