Flame angelfish
Centropyge loriculus
The flame angelfish is a small, lively reef fish of a bright red-orange, striped with black and with blue highlights on the fins.
Characteristics
Temperament
Diurnal, lively but shy
Diet
Algae and small reef organisms
Description
The flame angelfish is a small reef fish of the angelfish family, one of the most beloved for its vivid pattern. Its body, about 10 centimetres long, is an intense bright red-orange, crossed by four or five narrow vertical black bars; the dorsal and anal fins show lively blue highlights. It is one of the pygmy angelfish of the genus Centropyge.
Habitat and distribution
It lives in the tropical waters of the Pacific Ocean, particularly on the coral reefs of the central and western islands. It frequents reefs rich in crevices and corals, where it moves among rocks and shelters, often at moderate depths.
Behaviour and diet
It is a diurnal fish, lively but rather shy, feeding mainly on algae and small organisms grazed from the reef. It tends to stay near hiding places, into which it retreats at the slightest danger. Like other angelfish, it can change sex during its life.
Aquarium care
It is one of the most popular pygmy angelfish in the marine aquarium hobby, prized for its spectacular colour and small size. It needs a well-structured tank with plenty of rocks and hiding places, excellent water quality and a diet rich in greens. It is relatively peaceful, but can be territorial with its own kind.
Conservation
It is classed as least concern. Like all reef species, it depends on the health of the corals; collection for the aquarium trade should be managed sustainably so as not to affect local populations.
Pros
- Spectacular red-orange pattern
- Small size, suited to reef tanks
- Among the most popular pygmy angelfish
Cons
- Shy, needs plenty of hiding places
- Can be territorial with its own kind
- Needs excellent water quality
