Common name: Flame Angelfish

General Information

The Flame Angelfish, scientifically known as Centropyge loriculus, is a stunningly vibrant fish, renowned for its fiery red-orange body adorned with vertical black bars and electric blue accents on its dorsal and anal fins. This striking coloration makes it a favorite among marine aquarists, adding a splash of color to any reef tank. Originating from the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean, particularly around the Hawaiian Islands, the Flame Angelfish has become a staple in the aquarium trade due to its beauty and relatively manageable care requirements.

The Flame Angelfish holds its own in the hobbyist world, appealing to those who appreciate its vivid colors and dynamic presence. Its role in the aquarium trade supports sustainable collection practices, promoting awareness and conservation of its natural habitats.

Care

Caring for the Flame Angelfish involves creating an environment that mimics its natural reef habitat. A tank with a minimum size of 200 liters (50 gallons) is recommended to accommodate its active swimming behavior. The tank should be well-established with live rock, providing ample hiding places and grazing surfaces. Maintaining stable water conditions is crucial for their well-being.

To enrich their environment, include rock structures and caves that offer shelter and exploration opportunities. The Flame Angelfish is known for its curious and active nature, often seen darting in and out of crevices.

Diet and Feeding

Flame Angelfish are omnivores, requiring a varied diet to thrive. In the wild, they graze on algae and small invertebrates. In captivity, they should be fed a mix of high-quality marine flakes or pellets, supplemented with frozen foods such as mysis shrimp and brine shrimp. Offering blanched vegetables like spinach or nori can also provide essential nutrients.

Feed them small portions 2-3 times daily, ensuring they consume the food within a few minutes. This helps maintain water quality and prevents overfeeding.

Behavior and Compatibility

Known for their semi-aggressive nature, Flame Angelfish can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks. They are best kept singly or in mated pairs to avoid aggression towards conspecifics. When housed in larger tanks, they can coexist with other peaceful or semi-aggressive species.

While generally reef-safe, Flame Angelfish may nip at coral polyps, particularly if underfed or stressed. Monitoring their behavior and providing a balanced diet can mitigate this risk.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Flame Angelfish can live up to 5-7 years in captivity. Selecting healthy specimens involves looking for clear eyes, vibrant colors, and active behavior. Avoid fish with torn fins or signs of disease.

Maintaining good water quality and a balanced diet is essential in preventing common marine diseases such as ich or fin rot. Regular observation and prompt treatment of any health issues are key to their longevity.

Habitat

Flame Angelfish are native to the tropical Pacific Ocean, inhabiting coral-rich areas and lagoons. They prefer environments with abundant live rock and coral formations, which offer both food and shelter. Their natural habitat features warm, clear waters with moderate currents, conditions that should be replicated in captivity to ensure their comfort and health.