Common name: Potter's Angelfish

General Information

The Potter's Angelfish, scientifically known as Centropyge potteri, is a strikingly beautiful species that hails from the Hawaiian Islands. This dwarf angelfish is celebrated for its vibrant orange and blue coloration, making it a popular choice among marine aquarists. Named after Frederick Potter, a former director of the Waikiki Aquarium, this species is a testament to the allure of the Pacific's reef inhabitants.

Potter's Angelfish is not only prized for its stunning appearance but also for its relatively peaceful demeanor compared to other angelfish species. It is a wonderful addition for those looking to add a splash of color to their reef aquarium while enjoying the fish's curious nature. However, due to its specific habitat requirements and diet, it is best suited for aquarists with some experience.

Care

Potter's Angelfish requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock, which provides both grazing opportunities and hiding spots. This species thrives in a reef environment, but care must be taken as it may occasionally nip at coral polyps or clam mantles. A tank of at least 200 liters (approximately 50 gallons) is recommended to provide ample swimming space and territory.

Maintaining stable water conditions is crucial for the health of Potter's Angelfish. Regular water changes and monitoring of water quality are essential to keep them healthy and vibrant.

Diet and Feeding

In the wild, Potter's Angelfish are omnivorous, feeding on algae, small invertebrates, and detritus. In captivity, they should be provided with a varied diet that includes high-quality angelfish preparations, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and finely chopped seafood. Offering a mix of foods helps ensure they receive the necessary nutrients and keeps them engaged during feeding time.

Feed them small amounts two to three times daily, ensuring that they consume the food within a few minutes to prevent overfeeding and maintain water quality.

Behavior and Compatibility

Potter's Angelfish are generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially towards other dwarf angelfish. It is advisable to keep them as the only dwarf angelfish in smaller tanks to prevent aggression. They are best housed with other peaceful reef-safe species and can coexist with a variety of fish, invertebrates, and corals.

Care should be taken when introducing them to a new tank, as they may show aggression towards newcomers until territories are established.

Reproduction

Breeding Potter's Angelfish in captivity is challenging and rarely achieved. They are known to be protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning individuals start life as females, with the ability to change to males if needed. In the wild, they form harems, but replicating this social structure in captivity is difficult due to space and compatibility constraints.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, Potter's Angelfish can live for several years in captivity. They are susceptible to common marine diseases such as ich and marine velvet, so maintaining optimal water quality and a stress-free environment is key to their health.

When selecting a Potter's Angelfish, look for vibrant colors, clear eyes, and active swimming behavior. Avoid fish with visible signs of distress or disease, such as clamped fins or rapid breathing.

Habitat

Potter's Angelfish is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, where it inhabits coral-rich reef slopes and rocky outcrops at depths ranging from 10 to 40 meters. This species thrives in areas with abundant coral and algae growth, which provide both food and shelter.

To replicate their natural habitat in an aquarium, provide plenty of live rock and ensure stable water conditions that mimic the warm, clear waters of their native environment.