Common name: Scythemarked butterflyfish
General information
The Cortez Angelfish, scientifically known as Prognathodes falcifer, is a striking species native to the Eastern Pacific. It is particularly noted for its vibrant yellow body, blue margins on its dorsal and anal fins, and a distinctive black band through the eye. This species is not as commonly found in the aquarium trade as some other angelfish due to its limited range and deeper water habitat.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 15 cm (6″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Prefers strong water flow
- Diet
- Carnivore Enjoys mysis and brine shrimp
- Social
- Pair Pairs are often monogamous
- Reefsafe
- Yes
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May be territorial
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPerch-like FishesPerciformes
- FamilyButterflyfishChaetodontidae
- GenusLongnose ButterflyfishPrognathodes
- SpeciesScythemarked butterflyfishPrognathodes falcifer (Hubbs & Rechnitzer, 1958)
- SynonymsChaetodon falcifer Hubbs & Rechnitzer, 1958
Care
Caring for Cortez 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. This species is known to be somewhat shy and may take some time to acclimate to the aquarium environment. A varied diet of marine sponges, algae, and meaty foods is essential for their health and coloration.
Reproduction
In the wild, Cortez Angelfish are believed to be broadcast spawners, releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. There is little information on breeding this species in captivity, and successful captive breeding is rare.
Habitat
Prognathodes falcifer is typically found in rocky reefs and steep slope habitats in the Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru, including the Galapagos Islands. They are usually observed at depths ranging from 30 to over 150 meters, which is deeper than most recreational diving limits.