Common name: Tiger angelfish

Scientific name: Apolemichthys kingi Heemstra, 1984
Rare and expensive Tiger Angelfish (Apolemichthys kingi) from Deep reef among African Coast

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

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Chordates
    Chordata
  3. Class
    Ray-finned Fishes
    Actinopterygii
  4. Order
    Perch-like Fishes
    Perciformes
  5. Family
    Angelfishes
    Pomacanthidae
  6. Genus
    Angelfish
    Apolemichthys
  7. Species
    Tiger angelfish
    Apolemichthys 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.