Common name: Lemonpeel Angelfish

General Information

The Lemonpeel Angelfish, scientifically known as Centropyge flavissima, is a vibrant addition to the marine aquarium world. Its bright yellow body adorned with a striking blue ring around the eyes makes it a standout choice for hobbyists seeking a splash of color. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, this species is found in coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes.

In the aquarium trade, the Lemonpeel Angelfish is appreciated not only for its beauty but also for its manageable size and relatively hardy nature. However, it is essential to note that this species can be quite territorial, particularly in smaller tanks or when housed with similar-looking fish.

Care

The Lemonpeel Angelfish requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. A minimum tank size of 200 liters (approximately 50 gallons) is recommended to provide ample space and reduce territorial aggression. These angelfish thrive in environments that replicate their natural reef habitat, with stable water conditions and moderate to strong water flow.

To enrich their environment, include plenty of crevices and caves within the live rock. This setup not only offers hiding spots but also encourages natural foraging behavior, which is vital for their well-being.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, the Lemonpeel Angelfish primarily feeds on algae and detritus. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet that includes spirulina, marine algae, high-quality angelfish preparations, and finely chopped seafood. Supplementing their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and mysis shrimp can also be beneficial.

Feed them small amounts two to three times daily to maintain their health and vibrant coloration. Providing a diet rich in marine algae is crucial to prevent nutritional deficiencies and support their immune system.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Lemonpeel Angelfish is known for its semi-aggressive temperament, particularly towards other dwarf angelfish and similarly colored species. It is best kept singly or in a well-planned community tank with other non-aggressive species.

While generally reef-safe, caution is advised as they may nip at soft corals and clam mantles. Providing ample grazing opportunities and a balanced diet can help mitigate this behavior.

Reproduction

Breeding the Lemonpeel Angelfish in captivity is challenging, with few successful reports. They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning individuals start as females, with the ability to change to males in the absence of one. Spawning typically occurs in the evening, with the release of eggs and sperm into the water column.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, the Lemonpeel Angelfish can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. Maintaining high water quality and a balanced diet is crucial for their health. When selecting a Lemonpeel Angelfish, look for bright colors and active swimming behavior as indicators of good health.

Common health issues include susceptibility to marine ich and other parasitic infections. Quarantine new additions and maintain pristine water conditions to minimize these risks.

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Lemonpeel Angelfish includes coral-rich lagoons and outer reef slopes, typically at depths of 2 to 20 meters. They are distributed throughout the Indo-Pacific, from the Great Barrier Reef to the Hawaiian Islands, and are often found in areas with abundant coral and algal growth.