Common name: Russet angelfish
General information
Potter's Angelfish, scientifically known as Centropyge potteri, is a vibrant and colorful species popular among aquarists. This small angelfish is known for its deep blue to purple body with orange to red patterning. It is a member of the dwarf angelfish group and is prized for its beauty and relatively peaceful demeanor in the aquarium setting.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 75 liter (20 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
- Pair May form pairs or small groups
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at clam mantles, soft corals
- Captive bred
- Yes Available as captive-bred
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusDwarf AngelfishesCentropyge Kaup, 1860
- SpeciesRusset angelfishCentropyge potteri (Jordan & Metz, 1912)
- SynonymsHolacanthus potteri Jordan & Metz, 1912
Care
Potter's Angelfish requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They are known to nip at stony and soft corals, as well as clams, so they may not be suitable for a reef tank with sensitive invertebrates. A varied diet of marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other high-quality angelfish preparations will help maintain their color and health.
Reproduction
In the wild, Potter's Angelfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can change to male if the dominant male is removed. Breeding in captivity is challenging, but with a well-maintained environment and a compatible pair, it is possible to observe spawning behavior.
Habitat
Potter's Angelfish is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and Johnston Atoll, where it inhabits rocky reefs and slopes. They are typically found at depths ranging from 10 to 150 feet, often in areas with abundant coral growth.