Common name: Resplendent angelfish
General information
The Resplendent Angelfish, Centropyge resplendens, is a rare and highly sought-after species in the marine aquarium trade. This small, vibrantly colored angelfish is known for its striking blue body and yellow-orange face. Due to its rarity and specific habitat requirements, it is considered a gem for experienced aquarists.
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
- 8 cm (3″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae, meaty foods
- Social
- Pair May fight with conspecifics
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive Territorial, especially with own kind
- Captive bred
- Yes Rarely captive-bred
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusDwarf AngelfishesCentropyge Kaup, 1860
- SpeciesResplendent angelfishCentropyge resplendens Lubbock & Sankey, 1975
Care
Resplendent Angelfish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They can be sensitive to water quality, so maintaining pristine conditions is crucial. A varied diet of marine-based proteins, algae, and prepared angelfish foods will help maintain their color and health.
Reproduction
Like many marine angelfish, Centropyge resplendens is a protogynous hermaphrodite, meaning individuals start life as females and can change to males if the dominant male is removed. Breeding in captivity is challenging due to their complex life cycle and specific requirements.
Habitat
Endemic to the Ascension Island in the South Atlantic, Resplendent Angelfish are found in rocky reefs and slopes, typically at depths of 10 to 100 meters. They prefer areas with abundant algae growth, which is a significant part of their diet in the wild.