Common name: Clipperton angelfish

Scientific name: Holacanthus limbaughi Baldwin, 1963

General information

The Lemonpeel Angelfish, scientifically known as Holacanthus limbaughi, is a vibrant and attractive species popular among marine aquarists. This species is named in honor of the ichthyologist Loren P. Limbaugh. It is known for its bright yellow body and blue accents around the eyes and fins, which make it a standout in any aquarium.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
500 liter (130 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
Temperature
24 to 28 °C (75 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Average size
35 cm (1′2″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality
Diet
Omnivore Varied diet incl. sponges
Social
Solo Territorial, best kept alone
Reefsafe
No May nip at corals/inverts
Aggression
Semi aggresive Aggressive, esp. to conspecifics
Captive bred
No

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
    Angelfish
    Holacanthus
  7. Species
    Clipperton angelfish
    Holacanthus limbaughi Baldwin, 1963

Care

Lemonpeel Angelfish require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. They can be territorial, so it's important to introduce them to the tank last. They are omnivores, with a diet that should include a variety of foods such as marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and other meaty foods, as well as high-quality angelfish preparations containing sponges.

Reproduction

In the wild, Lemonpeel Angelfish form monogamous pairs during breeding. They are broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. The larvae are planktonic and will settle to the reef after several weeks. Breeding them in captivity is challenging and not commonly done by hobbyists.

Habitat

Holacanthus limbaughi is endemic to the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean, particularly around the islands of the central Pacific. They are typically found in coral-rich areas and clear lagoons, often at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 15 meters.