
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Centropyge ferrugata
A dwarf angel with a rusty red-orange body dotted black on the upper flanks and dorsal, anal and caudal fins edged in bright blue. Up to 10cm. Found in southern Japan; hardy, feeds readily and has been bred in captivity.
The Rusty Angelfish (Centropyge ferrugata) is a dwarf angelfish found in the western Pacific from Tanabe Bay in southern Japan to southern Taiwan and the Philippines. It reaches 10cm total length. The rusty red-orange body carries small black spots on the upper flanks that shrink toward the belly; the anal fin is dark and the dorsal, anal and caudal fins are edged in bright blue. It lives at 6-30m on seaward rocky reefs and rubble with dense algal growth, singly or in small groups, grazing filamentous algae mats and also taking detritus, sponges and small gastropods. It is capable of bidirectional sex change and has been bred and reared in captivity. In captivity provide 265L or more with plenty of live rock for grazing. Semi-aggressive toward other angels, so keep it as the only dwarf angel. It may nip stony and soft corals and clam mantles, so use caution in reef tanks. Hardy and quick to feed, it is a popular dwarf angel from Japanese waters.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Rusty Angelfish grows to Up to about 10cm.
The ideal temperature for the Rusty Angelfish is 22〜26℃.
Origin
Western Pacific (Tanabe Bay, southern Japan to southern Taiwan and the Philippines)
Size
Up to about 10cm
Temperature
22〜26℃
Sources: LiveAquaria / FishBase
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.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Marine algae and spirulina, angelfish pellets, frozen mysis and shrimp
Fights other dwarf angels; keep it as the only dwarf angel in the tank.
265L or larger with plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing.
22-26C, SG 1.020-1.025. Keep conditions stable.
Feed marine algae, spirulina, angelfish preparations and frozen mysis.
Semi-aggressive; may nip stony and soft corals and clam mantles, so use caution in reef tanks.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Rusty Angelfish is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Rusty Angelfish typically reaches Up to about 10cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Rusty Angelfish feeds on: Marine algae and spirulina, angelfish pellets, frozen mysis and shrimp. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Rusty Angelfish varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 15, 2026