Common name: Resplendent angelfish

Scientific name: Centropyge resplendens Lubbock & Sankey, 1975

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

  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
    Resplendent angelfish
    Centropyge 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.