Cherub Angelfish

Care at a glance

Overview

A tiny, hardy dwarf angel that is one of the more reef-tolerant Centropyge and well suited to nano and small reef systems. Despite its size it is feisty and territorial, especially toward other dwarf angels, so keep just one unless the tank is large enough for a mated pair introduced together. It grazes on algae and accepts prepared foods readily, making it easy to feed.

In the wild

Cherub angels live on rubble zones and coral reefs of the western Atlantic and Caribbean, typically at moderate depth among live rock and crevices. They are secretive grazers that stay close to cover, darting between holes in the rockwork. In the aquarium they want plenty of mature live rock with algae growth to graze and abundant hiding spots.

Good to know

Centropyge argi is one of the smallest marine angelfish, reaching only about 6 to 7 cm. It is a deep blue fish with a bright yellow-orange face and chest. Like most Centropyge it is a protogynous hermaphrodite, living in small harems where the dominant individual becomes male, and can change sex if the male is removed.

Did you know

One of the few marine angelfish that has been bred in captivity, though rearing the tiny larvae remains difficult; it is also a good algae grazer that helps keep rockwork clean.

Related species

• 

  African Flameback Angelfish

  Centropyge acanthops

  3.1 in (8 cm)29 gal (110 L)72–79°F (22–26°C)

• 

  Fisher's Angelfish

  Centropyge fisheri

  2.8 in (7 cm)53 gal (200 L)75–81°F (24–27°C)

• 

  Joculator Angelfish

  Centropyge joculator

  3.5 in (9 cm)70 gal (265 L)75–81°F (24–27°C)

• 

  Multicolor Angelfish

  Centropyge multicolor

  3.5 in (9 cm)70 gal (265 L)75–81°F (24–27°C)

• 

  Coral Beauty Angelfish

  Centropyge bispinosa

  3.9 in (10 cm)50 gal (190 L)72–79°F (22–26°C)

• 

  Flame Angelfish

  Centropyge loriculus

  3.9 in (10 cm)50 gal (190 L)72–79°F (22–26°C)