Bicolour Angelfish

The Bicolour Angelfish is a striking and colorful species native to the Indo-Pacific, known for its brilliant combination of yellow and blue hues. This species is a favorite among aquarium enthusiasts due to its vibrant coloration and relatively manageable care requirements. However, it is important to note that the Bicolour Angelfish can be somewhat territorial, so it's best housed in larger aquariums with a variety of hiding places and compatible tank mates.

(REEF SAFE WITH CAUTION / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Bicolour Angelfish, Blue-Girdled Angelfish
• Scientific Name: Centropyge bicolor
• Family: Pomacanthidae
• Origin/Habitat: Found in the Indo-Pacific, particularly around coral reefs and rocky areas.
• Maximum Size: Grows up to 6 inches (15 cm).
• Lifespan: Can live 10 to 15 years with proper care in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate; best suited for intermediate hobbyists due to its specific care needs.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Deep blue body with a striking yellow-orange coloration across the front half of the body. The transition between the blue and yellow is often sharp and clean.
• Body Shape & Structure: Oval-shaped body with a streamlined profile and long, pointed fins.

Habitat & Environmental Needs:

• Minimum Tank Size: Requires at least a 70-gallon (265-liter) tank due to its territorial nature.
• 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 1.020 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide ample rockwork for hiding, as well as plenty of open swimming space.
• Tank Cover: Ensure the tank is securely covered, as this species may leap if startled.

Diet & Feeding:

• Diet Type: Omnivorous
• Preferred Foods: A variety of foods, including high-quality marine flakes or pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as mysis shrimp, spirulina, and algae.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 2 to 3 times daily, offering small portions.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; can become territorial, particularly towards other angelfish or similarly shaped fish.
• Social Behavior: Active swimmer, though it may claim a particular area of the tank as its own.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Best kept with peaceful fish, though avoid other angelfish or aggressive species. Be cautious with small invertebrates, as they may be nipped.
• Activity Level: Active, constantly exploring and grazing on algae and small invertebrates.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes:

• Ease of Care: Moderate; requires stable water parameters and a well-established tank.
• Special Requirements: A well-maintained aquarium with live rock and plenty of hiding spots is crucial for this species.
• Breeding Info: Rarely breeds in captivity, though they are capable of spawning in well-established aquariums.
• Additional Notes: Although this species is sometimes considered "reef safe," it may nip at corals and invertebrates, so caution is advised in reef tanks. Regular water changes and monitoring water quality are important for maintaining health.