Common name: Keyhole angelfish
General information
The Keyhole Angelfish, scientifically known as Centropyge tibicen, is a small and attractive marine fish that is popular among aquarists. Its body is predominantly a dark blue or black color with a distinctive 'keyhole' marking on the side, which is a lighter blue or white. This species is part of the Pomacanthidae family, which includes other angelfish.
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
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Adaptable but needs hiding spots
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. algae, meaty foods
- Social
- Pair Can be kept in pairs if introduced together
- 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
- SpeciesKeyhole angelfishCentropyge tibicen (Cuvier, 1831)
- SynonymsCentropyge tibicens (Cuvier, 1831)Holacanthus leucopleura Bleeker, 1853Holacanthus tibicen Cuvier, 1831Xiphipops tibicen (Cuvier, 1831)
Care
Keyhole Angelfish are moderately easy to care for but do require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks, so it's important to introduce them to the aquarium last. They thrive in a stable environment with consistent water quality. A varied diet of marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other high-quality angelfish preparations will help maintain their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Keyhole Angelfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and can change to male if the dominant male is no longer present. Breeding in captivity is rare, but with a well-maintained environment and a compatible pair, it is possible. The pair will engage in a courtship dance before spawning.
Habitat
Keyhole Angelfish are found in the Western Atlantic, from Bermuda and the Bahamas, south to Brazil. They prefer reef environments with abundant coral and rocky substrates, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 20 meters. In the aquarium, they require ample space to swim and plenty of structure to mimic their natural habitat.