Common name: Barred angelfish
General information
The Multibar Angelfish, Paracentropyge multifasciata, is a small, strikingly patterned marine angelfish that is highly sought after in the reef aquarium trade. Its body is adorned with numerous vertical bars, giving it a distinctive and attractive appearance. This species is known for its shy and reclusive nature, often hiding among rockwork and crevices.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 150 liter (40 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
- 10 cm (4″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality changes.
- Diet
- Omnivore Varied diet incl. mysis, spirulina.
- Social
- Solo Territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May nip at clam mantles, soft corals.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyAngelfishesPomacanthidae
- GenusPygmy AngelfishParacentropyge
- SpeciesBarred angelfishParacentropyge multifasciata (Smith & Radcliffe, 1911)
- SynonymsCentropyge multifasciatus (Smith & Radcliffe, 1911)Holacanthus multifasciatus Smith & Radcliffe, 1911
Care
Caring for Multibar Angelfish can be challenging due to their specific dietary and environmental needs. They require a well-established aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. A varied diet of marine sponges, algae, and meaty foods is essential for their health. Due to their timid nature, they should be housed with peaceful tank mates and provided with a stress-free environment.
Reproduction
In the wild, Multibar Angelfish are known to form harems consisting of one male and several females. Breeding in captivity is rare, but with optimal conditions, they may spawn. The eggs are pelagic, drifting in the water column until hatching.
Habitat
Paracentropyge multifasciata is found in the Western Pacific, from the Philippines to the Great Barrier Reef. They prefer steep outer reef slopes and drop-offs, typically at depths ranging from 10 to 70 meters. In the aquarium, replicating their natural habitat with ample rockwork and open swimming space is beneficial.