Keyhole Angel (Centropyge tibicen) Care Guide
Centropyge tibicen, the keyhole angel, is the largest dwarf angelfish, a black Western Pacific species with a white flank spot, commonly traded for marine aquaria.
Overview
Centropyge tibicen is a marine angelfish of the family Pomacanthidae. FishBase records it as the largest member of the genus, reaching about 19.0 cm in total length, and describes it as black with a single white flank marking. It is frequently exported through the aquarium trade.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pomacanthidae
- Genus: Centropyge
- Scientific name: Centropyge tibicen
Habitat
According to FishBase the species ranges across the Western Pacific from Christmas Island to Fiji, north to southern Japan and south to Scott Reef and Lord Howe Island, and is uncommon around oceanic islands. It is marine, reef-associated and non-migratory, occurring at depths of about 4-55 m in tropical waters.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 350 L (92 gal)
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- dKH (carbonate hardness): 8-12
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Diet
FishBase reports that it feeds mainly on algae in the wild. In aquaria an omnivorous diet that includes algae-based preparations alongside small meaty foods is appropriate, offered in frequent small feedings.
Compatibility
This is a mid-water, semi-aggressive dwarf angel. FishBase notes it forms harems of 3-7 individuals and undergoes sex reversal over 29-35 days. Suitable tankmates include tangs, clownfish, wrasses and gobies, while other Centropyge angels and aggressive damsels are best avoided.
Reef compatibility
As a Centropyge species it is reef-compatible with caution, as dwarf angels may nip at coral polyps and clam mantles. Maintain specific gravity around 1.024-1.026 and carbonate hardness of 8-12 dKH.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2009), as reported by FishBase.