Chaetodontoplus melanosoma

Datasheet

General Description

The Black-velvet angelfish, scientifically known as Chaetodontoplus melanosoma, belongs to the Pomacanthidae family. These fish can reach a maximum length of 20 cm, showcasing a striking appearance with their deep black velvet-like coloration. Known for their docile temperament, they might display aggression towards similar species. Native to the East Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, and Indonesia, they are predominantly found in the Indo-West Pacific region, including the Indo-Malayan area and New Guinea up to southern Japan.

Aquarium Suitability

Considered suitable for aquarium life, Black-velvet angelfish require careful attention due to their delicate nature. They thrive in tanks with high water quality, necessitating proper oxygenation. These fish are herbivores and should be fed a varied diet consisting of algae such as nori seaweed, spirulina, and spinach, along with frozen foods. As they acclimatize best when introduced at a young age, they may refuse to eat initially but usually adapt within a week.

Demands, Care, and Hardiness

Sensitive to environmental changes, Black-velvet angelfish are prone to stress-related illnesses like Marine Ich when exposed to poor water quality or aggressive tank mates. To ensure their well-being, it's crucial to maintain stable water conditions with a temperature range of 22.2-25.6°C, a pH of 8.1-8.4, and a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025. These fish must be housed in spacious tanks of at least 700 liters with plenty of hiding spots.

Reef Suitability

Despite their attractive appearance, Black-velvet angelfish are not reef-safe. They have a tendency to disturb large-polyp stony corals, tubeworms, and other sessile invertebrates commonly found in reef environments. Therefore, keeping them in a coral aquarium requires careful selection of compatible corals such as Hammer corals, Bubble corals, Star polyps, and Disc anemones.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up the aquarium for Black-velvet angelfish, it's essential to provide a well-established environment with ample algae for grazing. In cases where natural algae are insufficient, supplement their diet with algae-rich foods like Spirulina. Additionally, ensure the tank offers enough swimming space and hiding places to reduce aggression and allow for natural behavior expression.

Behaviour

Known for their shy and docile nature, Black-velvet angelfish prefer peaceful tank mates and might exhibit territorial behavior towards similar species. These fish enjoy swimming in open areas and require a tranquil environment with minimal stressors to thrive optimally.

Feeding and Diet

Feeding Black-velvet angelfish several times a day is recommended, especially during the acclimatization period or when newly introduced. Their diet should include larger crustaceans, macroalgae like seaweed and nori, microalgae such as spirulina, small crustaceans like krill and mysis, and sponges. Providing a diverse diet ensures their nutritional needs are met.

Dimorphism

Black-velvet angelfish have the ability to change gender from female to male, ensuring a balance in reproductive roles within their social structure. While captive reproduction specifics are not detailed, their hermaphroditic nature allows for gender adaptation as needed.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Black-velvet angelfish inhabit the warm waters of the East Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, and Indonesia. Their distribution extends from the Indo-Malayan region to New Guinea, reaching as far north as southern Japan. Typically found in rocky crevices and coral-rich areas, these fish prefer environments with ample natural algae for grazing.