Common name: Dusky angelfish

Scientific name: Centropyge nox (Bleeker, 1853)
The twospined angelfish, dusky angelfish, or coral beauty (Centropyge bispinosa).Twospined Angelfish (Centropyge bispinosa) in Japan
 Two spined angelfish, dusky angelfish, or coral beauty a marine angelfishThe twospined angelfish (Centropyge bispinosa), also known as the dusky angelfish, or coral beauty, is a species of marine ray-finned fish, a marine angelfish belonging to the family Pomacanthidae. Th

General information

The Midnight Angelfish, scientifically known as Centropyge nox, is a small and elusive species of marine angelfish. It is known for its striking all-black coloration, which can add a dramatic contrast to the vibrant hues of a reef aquarium. This species is less commonly seen in the trade compared to other angelfish due to its nocturnal habits and preference for deeper waters.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
100 liter (26 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae, meaty foods.
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
Reefsafe
No May nip at corals and clams.
Aggression
Semi aggresive Can be aggressive towards tankmates.
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
    Dwarf Angelfishes
    Centropyge Kaup, 1860
  7. Species
    Dusky angelfish
    Centropyge nox (Bleeker, 1853)
  8. Synonyms
    Holacanthus nox Bleeker, 1853

Care

Midnight Angelfish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are generally peaceful but can be territorial towards other angelfish. A varied diet of marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other high-quality prepared foods is essential for their health. Caution should be exercised when housing them with small invertebrates or corals, as they may nip at soft and stony corals or clam mantles.

Reproduction

Like many marine angelfish, Midnight Angelfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and have the potential to turn male if the dominant male is absent. Breeding in captivity is rare, and little is known about their reproductive habits in the wild.

Habitat

Midnight Angelfish are found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in reef slopes and lagoons at depths ranging from 10 to 30 meters. They prefer areas with abundant coral growth and crevices to hide during the day, emerging at dusk to feed.