Common name: Bluespotted angelfish

General information

The Blue-spotted Angelfish, scientifically known as Chaetodontoplus caeruleopunctatus, is a striking marine fish that adds a splash of color to any saltwater aquarium. This species is known for its deep blue to purple body coloration, adorned with a multitude of small, iridescent blue spots that give it a celestial appearance. The contrast of the yellowish-orange face and the blue body makes it a visually appealing addition to the reef tank.

Care

Blue-spotted Angelfish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They can grow up to 15 cm (6 inches) in length, so a larger tank is necessary to accommodate their size and swimming behavior. This species is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of foods including marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other meaty foods, as well as high-quality angelfish preparations that contain sponges.

It's important to note that while they are generally reef-safe, they may nip at stony and soft corals, as well as clam mantles, so they should be monitored in a reef tank setting.

Reproduction

In the wild, Blue-spotted Angelfish are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they are born female and have the ability to change to male if the dominant male is no longer present. Breeding in captivity is challenging and not commonly achieved by hobbyists. If attempting to breed, providing a stress-free environment with plenty of hiding spaces and a varied diet can encourage spawning behavior.

Habitat

The Blue-spotted Angelfish is native to the Western Pacific, commonly found in the Coral Sea, around the Great Barrier Reef, and off the coast of New Caledonia. They inhabit coral-rich areas and lagoons, typically at depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters (16 to 98 feet).