Keyhole Angelfish

The Keyhole Angelfish is a captivating species native to the Indo-Pacific region, celebrated for its distinctive coloration and patterns. Its unique appearance and relatively manageable care requirements make it a favored choice among marine aquarium enthusiasts.

(REEF SAFE WITH CAUTION / INTERMEDIATE)

Essential Information:

• Common Names: Keyhole Angelfish, Black Angelfish, Whitespot Angelfish, Puller Angelfish
• Scientific Name: Centropyge tibicen
• Family: Pomacanthidae
• Origin/Habitat: Inhabits shallow lagoon waters and coastal reefs around southern Queensland, New South Wales, Northern Territory, and off Western Australia. Also found around the Moluccas, Philippines, New Hebrides, and most of the Indo-Australian Archipelago.
• Maximum Size: Grows up to 7 inches (18 cm).
• Lifespan: Can live up to 10 years in captivity with proper care.
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate; suitable for intermediate hobbyists due to its specific care needs.

Appearance & Physical Traits:

• Coloration & Pattern: Overall black body with an elongated vertical black blotch on the middle of the upper sides. When small, mainly black with a white bar; the white bar changes to a central blotch and varies greatly in shape and size.
• 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) aquarium.
• Water Temperature: Maintain between 73°F and 78°F (23°C to 26°C).
• pH Level: Keep between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.020 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide ample live rock for hiding and grazing.
• Tank Cover: Ensure the tank is securely covered, as this species may jump 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, brine shrimp, and algae.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 2 to 3 times daily, offering small portions.

Behavior & Compatibility:

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; can be 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; 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.
• Pest Control Benefits: While not a primary pest controller, it may help in maintaining a clean substrate by consuming small invertebrates.
• 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.