Pygmy Angelfish: A Comprehensive Guide
Appearance: Pygmy angelfish are small in size and their body is slightly elongated. They come in various shades of blue, yellow and orange, making them a popular choice for aquarium hobbyists. Their body is adorned with stripes and spots, giving them a unique and attractive look. Pygmy angelfish have large eyes and fins, which add to their beauty.
| Feature | Information |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 4 to 5 years |
| Temperature | 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C) |
| Min size | 2 inches (5 cm) |
| Max size | 4 inches (10 cm) |
| Species | Multiple species under genus Centropyge |
| Family | Pomacanthidae |
| Scientific Name | Centropyge spp. |
| Origin | Pacific Ocean, including the Red Sea, Fiji, and the Great Barrier Reef |
| Diet & Nutrition | Omnivores, eat a variety of meaty foods, frozen or dried shrimp, mysis, and other small organisms, as well as seaweed, algae, and other plant matter. |
| Breeding | Not bred successfully in captivity |
| Tank mates | Peaceful, can be kept with other peaceful tank mates of similar size and temperament. Avoid keeping with aggressive or large fish that may bully or eat them. |
| Tank size | Minimum of 30 gallons (113 liters) |
Behavior:
Pygmy angelfish are peaceful creatures and can be kept with other fish species. They are known to form schools in the wild and it is recommended to keep them in groups in the aquarium. Pygmy angelfish are shy by nature and may take time to adjust to their new environment. They are active swimmers and are known to explore their surroundings.
Food Habit:
Pygmy angelfish are omnivores and need a varied diet in the aquarium. They feed on a variety of food, including algae, plankton, and frozen food. It is important to provide a balanced diet, including both vegetable and protein sources, to keep them healthy.
Caring Guides:
Caring for Pygmy Angelfish can be relatively easy if the following guidelines are followed
- Provide a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places.
- Maintain a stable temperature between 75-82°F.
- Keep the water quality at optimal levels by performing regular water changes.
- Provide a balanced diet including both vegetable and protein sources.
- Keep the tank mates peaceful, as aggressive species can cause stress for Pygmy angelfish.
- Quarantine new fish before adding them to the tank to prevent the spread of diseases.
Disease:
Pygmy angelfish are prone to some common diseases, such as Ich and Marine Velvet. It is important to monitor their health and seek advice from a veterinarian if any symptoms are observed. Regular water changes and maintaining optimal water quality can help prevent the spread of diseases.
Tank Mates:
Pygmy angelfish are peaceful creatures and can be kept with other peaceful species. Some good tank mates for Pygmy angelfish include clownfish, damselfish, and wrasses. Avoid keeping aggressive fish species with Pygmy angelfish, as this can cause stress and lead to disease.
Are pygmy angels reef safe?
Pygmy angelfish (Centropyge species) are generally considered to be reef-safe, meaning that they are unlikely to harm corals or other invertebrates in a reef aquarium. However, like all fish, individual pygmy angels may have unique personalities and feeding habits, so it’s always a good idea to research the specific species you’re interested in keeping to ensure that they are a good fit for your reef tank.
Pygmy Angelfish price
The price of pygmy angelfish can vary widely depending on the species, size, and location. Some of the most common and readily available species, such as the lemon pygmy angel (Centropyge flavissimus) or the rusty angel (Centropyge ferrugata), can sell for anywhere from $30 to $100 or more.
In conclusion, Pygmy angelfish are attractive and fascinating creatures that can add beauty and excitement to any aquarium. With proper care and a balanced diet, they can thrive in captivity and provide hours of enjoyment for their owners.
