Coral Beauty Angelfish (Centropyge bispinosa)
The Coral Beauty Angelfish (Centropyge bispinosa)
is a stunning and hardy saltwater fish popular in marine aquariums. It belongs
to the dwarf angelfish family and is native to coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific
region, including the Red Sea and Great Barrier Reef.
Key Features:
- Appearance: This fish is known for its vibrant coloration, featuring a mix of deep blue and orange hues, with intricate patterns on its body.
- Size: Grows to a maximum of 3-4 inches (7-10 cm), making it suitable for medium-sized aquariums.
- Temperament: Generally peaceful but may show territorial behavior, especially toward other angelfish or similarly shaped fish.
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on algae, small invertebrates, and prepared foods like pellets or frozen brine shrimp.
- Habitat: Thrives in a tank with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding, requiring stable water conditions with a temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C).
This species is relatively easy to care for, making it
a great choice for intermediate aquarists. However, it may nip at soft corals
and clam mantles, so caution is needed in reef tanks.
Common Names:
Coral Beauty, Twospined Angelfish, Dusky Angelfish
The genus Centropyge comes from the Greek words
"kentron" (spike) and "pyge" (rump), referencing their
spined anal fins. The species name bispinosa refers to the "two
spines" characteristic of this angelfish.
Appearance
The Coral Beauty Angelfish is one of the most popular
dwarf angelfish due to its stunning coloration. Its body is a mix of vibrant
orange and purple hues, with deep blue highlights on its fins and edges. The
exact intensity of colors can vary based on diet, lighting, and the fish's
origin. This small fish typically grows to about 4 inches (10 cm) in length,
making it ideal for smaller tanks compared to larger angelfish species.
The Coral Beauty Angelfish is a visually stunning
marine fish that boasts a vibrant and unique coloration. Here's a detailed
breakdown of its appearance:
Coloration
- Body:
- Deep
blue or purple: Covers most of the body,
particularly the dorsal region and tail.
- The
iridescent quality of this color enhances its beauty under aquarium
lighting.
- Midsection
to Ventral Area:
- Fiery
orange to reddish hues: Gradually fades
into the blue edges, creating a striking contrast.
- Often
features a flame-like pattern or streaks.
- Fins:
- Dorsal
and anal fins: Bright blue, sometimes with
lighter or darker edges.
- Caudal
fin (tail): Typically deep blue, matching the
dorsal body coloration.
Size
- Average
Length:
- Around
3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm) when fully grown.
- Compact
size makes it suitable for medium-sized tanks.
Shape
- Oval-shaped
body: Typical of dwarf angelfish, with a slightly
laterally compressed body.
- Rounded
fins: A smooth and streamlined profile ideal for
swift movements among reefs and rocks.
Eyes
- Dark
and expressive, often with a hint of blue or orange
reflection, adding to their striking look.
Sexual Dimorphism
- Difficult
to distinguish between males and females based on appearance.
- Slight
differences in size or coloration may be visible, with males potentially
being slightly larger or having more vibrant colors.
The Coral Beauty Angelfish’s mesmerizing blend of blue and orange makes it a centerpiece in any saltwater aquarium, especially when paired with live rock and reef lighting that highlights its shimmering colors.