Common name: Fisher's Angelfish

General Information

The Fisher's Angelfish (Centropyge fisheri), also known as the White-tail Angelfish, is a small marine fish from the Pomacanthidae family. With its vibrant orange body and blue fin accents, it is popular among hobbyists with nano or small reef tanks. Native to the Hawaiian Islands, Johnston Atoll, and parts of the central Pacific, it makes a striking addition to marine aquariums. Coloration varies by location, with some individuals more orange and others mostly blue, but the distinctive white to transparent tail remains consistent.

Despite its vivid appearance, the Fisher's Angelfish is relatively uncommon in the pet trade compared to other dwarf angelfish species. This rarity, combined with its appealing coloration and manageable size, makes it a sought-after species for dedicated aquarists.

Care

Caring for the Fisher's Angelfish requires a moderate level of experience. They thrive in well-established aquariums with plenty of live rock, which provides both hiding spots and grazing surfaces. A tank of at least 100 liters (approximately 25 gallons) is recommended to accommodate their active swimming and territorial behavior.

This species appreciates a tank environment that mimics its natural reef habitat, with stable water conditions and moderate water flow. While they can adapt to a range of conditions, maintaining high water quality is crucial for their health.

Diet and Feeding

Fisher's Angelfish are omnivores with a diet that includes both plant and animal matter. In the wild, they graze on algae, small invertebrates, and detritus. In captivity, they should be provided with a varied diet that includes high-quality marine flakes or pellets, frozen foods like brine shrimp and mysis shrimp, and occasional fresh greens or algae sheets.

Feeding should occur once or twice daily, with portions small enough to be consumed within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Fisher's Angelfish is semi-aggressive, particularly towards other dwarf angelfish and fish of similar shape and size. They are best kept singly or as a male-female pair to avoid territorial disputes. In larger tanks, they can coexist with other semi-aggressive or peaceful fish species.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Fisher's Angelfish can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. It is important to monitor them for signs of common marine fish ailments such as ich and fin rot. Regular water changes and maintaining optimal water quality can help prevent these issues.

When selecting a Fisher's Angelfish, look for bright coloration, clear eyes, and active swimming behavior. Avoid fish that show signs of stress or disease, such as cloudy eyes or frayed fins.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Fisher's Angelfish includes coral reefs and rocky areas where they can find shelter and food. They are typically found at depths ranging from 10 to 40 meters (35 to 130 feet). The species is found in the Hawaiian Islands, Johnston Atoll, and across parts of the central Pacific, including the Marshall Islands and other nearby locations, where they contribute to the vibrant marine biodiversity.