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Keyhole Angelfish© Rickard Zerpe / CC BY 2.0

Keyhole Angelfish

The Keyhole Angelfish is a small marine angelfish known for the pale, keyhole-shaped patch outlined in white at the center of its dark blackish-blue body. A touch of yellow along the lower pelvic and anal fins adds a subtle accent to its otherwise understated coloring. Among Centropyge-type dwarf angelfish, it ranks among the larger species, with some individuals reaching around 19cm. It's also found along the coasts of southern Japan, giving it a familiar presence among local marine aquarists. Generally calm in temperament and known for its hardiness, it's a popular choice for intermediate keepers who appreciate quiet, understated beauty over flashy color.

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About Keyhole Angelfish

The Keyhole Angelfish has a dark body with a white keyhole-shaped marking and yellow-tinged lower fins. Growing up to about 19cm, it's one of the largest Centropyge angelfish and a hardy pick for intermediate marine aquarists.

7 things to know before welcoming a Keyhole Angelfish

  1. 1Compatibility with Tankmates

    Keyhole Angelfish are considered relatively calm among angelfish, but they can be territorial toward similarly shaped or closely related species. Give tankmates a roomy tank and introduce new fish gradually while watching how they get along.

  2. 2Tank Size and Hiding Spots

    Since they can grow to around 19cm, plan for a tank that comfortably suits their adult size. Adding rockwork with crevices gives them a place to retreat, helping them settle in and feel secure.

  3. 3Feeding Preferences

    They're omnivorous and typically accept a varied diet of pellets, frozen foods, and marine algae. Newly introduced fish can be picky at first, so offering a few different food types can help them settle in.

  4. 4Water Quality Care

    As with most marine fish, sudden shifts in temperature, salinity, or pH can be stressful. Take extra care with acclimation when introducing a new fish, and keep water parameters stable for long-term health.

  5. 5Health and Quarantine

    Like many angelfish, they can be susceptible to issues such as white spot disease. A quarantine period to observe a new fish before adding it to the main tank can help catch problems early.

  6. 6Hardy and Beginner-Friendly

    Keyhole Angelfish are known for being a relatively hardy species, making them approachable for aquarists with some marine fishkeeping experience. Even so, hardiness is no substitute for regular observation and consistent care.

  7. 7Subtle, Understated Beauty

    Rather than bold colors, this fish offers a quieter appeal: a dark body accented by a white keyhole marking and touches of yellow. It's a great fit for anyone building a tank with a more refined, understated look.

Frequently asked questions about Keyhole Angelfish

Q.How big does the Keyhole Angelfish get?
A.It can grow to around 19cm at maximum, making it one of the larger species among Centropyge-type dwarf angelfish. Since growth varies by individual, it's wise to plan tank size around its adult potential.
Q.Is the Keyhole Angelfish suitable for beginners?
A.It's generally considered a good fit for intermediate keepers rather than complete beginners, thanks to its hardiness. Some prior experience with water quality management and feeding routines will help you keep it successfully.
Q.Can it be kept with other fish?
A.It's known for a relatively calm temperament, though it may show territorial behavior toward similar-looking or closely related species. Give tankmates plenty of space and monitor interactions closely when combining fish.
Q.What does it eat?
A.It's an omnivore that typically accepts a mix of pellets, frozen foods, and marine algae. Newly introduced fish may be picky at first, so having a variety of food options on hand can help.
Q.Where does the Keyhole Angelfish live?
A.It's found along the coasts of southern Japan, making it a familiar species in Japanese waters. Its hardiness also helps it adapt well to aquarium conditions.

Useful tools for Keyhole Angelfish care

💧Aquarium Volume CalculatorCalculate water volume, weight, and heater wattage from tank dimensions🧪Water Quality CheckerFind compatible fish, shrimp, plants & corals based on pH, temperature & hardness🍽️Feeding GuideCheck feeding frequency, portion sizes & supplements by species and growth stage🤝Compatibility CheckerCheck compatibility between two species on a 5-level scale📊Fish Compatibility MatrixCheck fish compatibility at a glance with our matrix chart🔄Nitrogen Cycle GuideAuto-calculate bacteria colonization timeline for new tank cycling🗓️Seasonal Care CalendarMonthly care events and seasonal management tips at a glance🚿Water Change CalculatorAuto-calculate optimal water change frequency and volume by tank size and fish count🐠Stocking CalculatorCalculate max fish capacity for your tank size with overstocking alerts🏞️Tank Layout PlannerGet substrate, plant & hardscape suggestions based on tank size and style🧮Care Cost SimulatorEstimate initial, monthly & annual costs by category, care level and quantity⚖️Species Comparison ToolCompare two species side by side: care difficulty, size, lifespan & temperature🎯Pet Match DiagnosticAnswer 7 questions to find your top 3 perfect pets🚚Transport Safety CheckerCheck transport safety score and precautions by category, season, method and distance⏱️Quarantine & Acclimation TimerManage quarantine periods and acclimation steps with countdown timers. Includes recommended durations by species

Learn more about Keyhole Angelfish in the encyclopedia

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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.

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