Chaetodontoplus mesoleucus

Datasheet

General Description

The Vermiculated Angelfish, scientifically known as Chaetodontoplus mesoleucus, belongs to the Pomacanthidae family and can grow up to 35 cm in length. These fish are generally well-suited for aquarium life but require a diverse diet that includes algae, frozen foods, nori seaweed, spirulina, or spinach. They are recognized for their vibrant colors and impressive appearance, typical of angelfish species.

Aquarium Suitability

The Vermiculated Angelfish is deemed suitable for aquarium life, albeit with care due to their delicate nature. They are known to be less aggressive than other angelfish species but may act aggressively towards similar species. These fish require a large aquarium to thrive, especially when kept in groups. It is crucial to acclimatize them properly when adding them to a tank.

Care and Hardiness

Categorized as delicate, the Vermiculated Angelfish demands a high water quality, with proper oxygenation being essential for their well-being. These fish can be sensitive during transportation and acclimatization, making it vital to provide hiding spots in the aquarium, especially when introducing them initially. They are docile but might exhibit aggression, particularly towards fish that resemble their species.

Reef Suitability

The Vermiculated Angelfish is not considered reef safe, as they tend to disturb Large Polyp Stony (LPS) corals and other reef inhabitants like tubeworms. Their diet can include soft corals and LPS, posing a challenge for maintaining a reef environment with these fish. However, it is possible to create a mixed coral tank with careful selection of coral species.

Aquarium Setup

When setting up an aquarium for Vermiculated Angelfish, it is crucial to provide ample space for swimming due to their active nature. Including hiding spots in the tank is essential for their comfort, especially during the acclimatization phase. Keeping the tank well-established with algae-rich surfaces and providing a varied diet are vital for the health and happiness of these fish.

Behaviour

Vermiculated Angelfish are known to be shy and docile, requiring careful consideration when housed with more aggressive tankmates. These fish might nibble on clams, including Tridacna species, and enjoy feeding on tubeworms. Introducing them to the tank when they are young can help with acclimatization, as small individuals are particularly delicate.

Feeding and Diet

Feeding the Vermiculated Angelfish a varied diet is crucial for their well-being. Their recommended diet includes larger crustaceans, macroalgae (seaweed/nori), microalgae (spirulina), and small crustaceans like krill, mysis, and artemia. These fish require frequent feeding, especially when first introduced to the aquarium, to ensure they receive adequate nutrition.

Dimorphism and Captive Reproduction

Vermiculated Angelfish have the ability to change gender from female to male. Some individuals of this species might initially refuse to eat when introduced to a new environment but typically begin eating within a week. Captive reproduction of these fish can be challenging, requiring specific conditions to encourage breeding behaviors.

Habitat and Distribution

The Vermiculated Angelfish is native to the Indo-West Pacific region, ranging from Japan to Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and east to Papua New Guinea. They are commonly found in reefs with proper oxygenation and a diverse ecosystem. In the wild, their diet includes algae, tubeworms, and other small marine organisms found in their habitat.