How difficult is it to keep African pygmy angelfish?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

What is the ideal temperature for African pygmy angelfish?

The ideal temperature for African pygmy angelfish is 22〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

How large does African pygmy angelfish get?

African pygmy angelfish typically reaches Up to 8 cm TL (FishBase) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed African pygmy angelfish?

African pygmy angelfish feeds on: Omnivore (algae and small invertebrates). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for African pygmy angelfish?

The price of African pygmy angelfish varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

African pygmy angelfish

Intermediate

Centropyge acanthops

A small dwarf angelfish with a deep-blue body and an orange-yellow band from the head along the back. Its pale yellow to transparent tail separates it from the similar Brazilian flameback.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

22〜27℃

Lifespan

Little data available

Size

Up to 8 cm TL (FishBase)

Diet

Omnivore (algae and small invertebrates)

About

The African pygmy or orangeback angelfish (Centropyge acanthops) occurs in the western Indian Ocean from Somalia to East London, South Africa, and around offshore islands (FishBase). At 8 cm TL it is small even for its genus. The lower two-thirds of the body is deep blue with close-set purple spots, the head, back and dorsal fin are orange-yellow, and the tail is pale yellow to transparent. That pale tail distinguishes it from the similar Brazilian flameback (C. aurantonotus) and cherub angelfish (C. argi). It lives in small groups of up to about ten fish among coral rubble, feeding on algae and small invertebrates. Keep it in a tank with plenty of live rock to graze and feed spirulina-based and frozen foods about twice a day. One Centropyge species per tank is recommended, and underfed fish may nip corals and clams. It has been bred in captivity, and Japanese specialist shops stock it regularly.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Size of the African pygmy angelfish

The African pygmy angelfish grows to Up to 8 cm TL (FishBase).

Temperature & humidity for the African pygmy angelfish

The ideal temperature for the African pygmy angelfish is 22〜27℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Western Indian Ocean (Somalia to South Africa and nearby islands)

Lifespan

Little data available

Size

Up to 8 cm TL (FishBase)

Care Specifications

Water Temp.: 22–27℃
Min. Tank: 190 L

Semi-aggressiveWith caution

Sources: FishBase (Centropyge acanthops) / Saltcorner Fish Library (Bob Goemans)

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Centropyge acanthops (Norman, 1922)

Synonyms: Centropyges acanthops (Norman, 1922), Holacanthus acanthops Norman, 1922, Xiphipops acanthops (Norman, 1922)

Authority databases: WoRMS · GBIF · GBIF · WoRMS · FishBase

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern

Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+). Not designated as an Invasive Alien Species under Japanese law. Never release aquarium animals into the sea.

Sources: Species+ (CITES) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Designated Invasive Alien Species / FishBase

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.