Flame Angelfish

The Flame Angelfish (Centropyge loricula) is a stunning and vibrant species known for its fiery orange and red coloration. Its striking appearance, combined with its relatively small size, makes it a popular choice for reef tanks, although it requires a bit more attention due to its potential for nibbling on corals.

(REEF SAFE WITH CAUTION / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Flame Angelfish, Flame Angel, Fire Angelfish
• Scientific Name: Centropyge loricula
• Family: Pomacanthidae
• Origin/Habitat: Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly around the Maldives, Fiji, and Indonesia. They are typically found in coral reefs and lagoons.
• Maximum Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
• Lifespan: Typically 5–7 years with proper care
• Level of Difficulty: Intermediate; requires stable water parameters and attention to tank mates, especially in reef setups.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: The Flame Angelfish is famous for its vibrant orange-red body with vertical black bars running across the sides. The coloration is vivid and striking, making it a standout species in any aquarium.
• Body Shape & Structure: It has a compact, oval-shaped body with a blunt snout and large fins, typical of angelfish. Its sharp, pointed dorsal fin and long anal fin add to its graceful swimming style.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (113 liters) or larger.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 74°F and 80°F (23°C to 27°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.023 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide plenty of live rock and hiding spaces. This species prefers a well-established tank with lots of places to retreat to, as it can be shy when first introduced.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Omnivorous
• Preferred Foods: The Flame Angelfish enjoys a varied diet, including algae, frozen foods, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and high-quality pellets. It will also consume marine veggies like nori and spirulina.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 1–2 times daily, ensuring that a mix of plant-based and protein-based foods are provided.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially toward other angelfish or similar species. It can be shy at first but becomes more active as it adjusts to its environment.
• Social Behavior: Best kept singly or in small groups, preferably with one male per tank. Larger tanks are required if keeping multiple Flame Angelfish, as they can become aggressive toward each other.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Compatible with other peaceful fish, but should be carefully monitored in a reef tank, as it may nip at corals or other invertebrates. Avoid keeping it with aggressive or larger species.
• Activity Level: Active and curious, often seen picking at rocks and corals, searching for food. It is frequently seen swimming throughout the tank but will also retreat to hiding spots when needed.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: The Flame Angelfish is relatively hardy but requires careful attention to water quality, diet, and tank mates. It is best suited for intermediate aquarists due to its sensitivity to changes in the environment and potential coral nipping.
• Special Requirements: While the Flame Angelfish is a beautiful addition to a reef tank, it may nip at soft corals and sessile invertebrates. It is important to monitor its behavior and ensure it is receiving a balanced diet.
• Breeding Info: Little is known about breeding the Flame Angelfish in captivity. They can be difficult to breed due to their specific habitat and environmental needs.
• Additional Notes: The Flame Angelfish is an eye-catching species that is a favorite for many reef aquarists. However, its tendency to nip at corals means it’s better suited for fish-only or mixed reef tanks with robust coral species that are less likely to be damaged.