Common name: Tiger angelfish
General information
The Tiger Angelfish, scientifically known as Apolemichthys kingi, is a rare and striking species of marine angelfish. It is highly sought after by advanced aquarists due to its unique coloration and rarity in the trade. This species is characterized by its deep blue to black body with vibrant orange to yellow vertical stripes, resembling the pattern of a tiger.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Average size
- 25 cm (10″)
- Care level
- Moderate to difficult Sensitive to water quality
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. veggies & meaty foods
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at stony coral polyps
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Can be aggressive, especially to conspecifics
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusAngelfishApolemichthys
- SpeciesTiger angelfishApolemichthys kingi Heemstra, 1984
Care
The Tiger Angelfish requires a large, well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. Due to its rarity and specific needs, it is recommended for experienced aquarists. A varied diet of marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other high-quality angelfish preparations will help maintain its health and coloration.
Reproduction
Little is known about the breeding habits of Apolemichthys kingi in the wild or in captivity, as breeding this species in home aquariums is extremely rare.
Habitat
Apolemichthys kingi is endemic to the Western Indian Ocean, specifically around the island of Mauritius. It typically inhabits reef slopes and areas with abundant coral growth.