Lemon Peel Angelfish

Description:
The Centropyge flavissima, commonly known as the Yellow Angelfish or Lemonpeel Angelfish, is a small and striking species of dwarf angelfish native to the Indo-Pacific region. It is found around the Maldives, Indonesia, and the Philippines and is highly regarded for its bright yellow coloration and relatively small size, making it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts, particularly in reef tanks.
The Yellow Angelfish has a vibrant yellow body with a slightly darker yellow-orange hue on its head and fins. Juveniles are also yellow but may have blue markings or black spots around their body, which fade as they mature. The adult coloration is more consistent, with the fish maintaining a rich yellow appearance throughout its life. Its small size, usually growing up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) in length, makes it suitable for smaller reef tanks, though it still requires a well-maintained environment to thrive.
Despite its small size, the Yellow Angelfish can exhibit territorial behavior and prefers an environment with plenty of hiding places and grazing areas. It is generally considered a reef-safe species, but it may nip at certain corals or sessile invertebrates in some cases.
Care:
Tank Size: The Yellow Angelfish is a relatively small species but still requires a minimum tank size of 30 gallons. In smaller tanks, it can become stressed or territorial. A larger tank (50 gallons or more) is ideal, especially if you plan to keep other tankmates. These fish do well in reef tanks and can coexist with most other peaceful species when given enough space.
Water Conditions: The Yellow Angelfish prefers stable and clean water conditions, mimicking its natural environment. The following water parameters are ideal for this species:
Temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C)
Salinity: 1.023-1.025 specific gravity
pH: 8.1-8.4
Ammonia, Nitrite: 0 ppm
Nitrate: Less than 10 ppm
Regular water changes (10-20% every two weeks) are important for maintaining optimal water quality. A good filtration system is essential to keep water clean, especially in smaller tanks where waste can build up more quickly.
Diet: The Yellow Angelfish is an omnivore and requires a varied diet to stay healthy. In the wild, it feeds on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates. In captivity, it should be offered a range of foods, such as:
Sponge-based foods (sponge-based frozen or prepared foods)
Algae sheets (nori or spirulina)
Frozen foods (mysis shrimp, brine shrimp)
Vegetables (spirulina flakes, pellets, or blanched spinach)
High-quality angelfish pellets or flakes
A sponge-based diet is especially important to replicate their natural diet, promoting better health and vibrant coloration. Feeding multiple times a day in small amounts is ideal for ensuring they receive all the nutrients they need.
Tank Setup: The Yellow Angelfish is best housed in a reef tank with live rock for grazing and hiding, as well as plenty of open swimming space. It appreciates having places to retreat into, such as caves or crevices between rocks. These hiding spots also help reduce stress and prevent territorial disputes with other fish.
A moderate water flow is ideal, and the use of a protein skimmer can help maintain water quality, especially in a tank with live rock. A sandy substrate is recommended, though it’s not absolutely necessary.
Social Behavior: The Yellow Angelfish is generally peaceful, but it can be territorial, especially in smaller tanks or when kept with other dwarf angelfishes. It is best housed with other peaceful fish, particularly those that are not overly aggressive or likely to compete for territory. However, be cautious if keeping multiple dwarf angelfishes, as they may fight for space.
Ideal tankmates for the Yellow Angelfish include:
Tangs (e.g., Yellow Tang, Blue Tang, or Tomini Tang)
Wrasses
Gobies
Clownfish
Blennies
Other peaceful reef-safe species
Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive or large fish, as these may stress the angelfish or cause it to become aggressive in defense of its territory.
Companions: The Yellow Angelfish is best kept with peaceful, reef-safe species, and it typically does well in a community tank with other small to medium-sized fish. Potential compatible companions include:
Wrasses
Gobies
Tangs
Butterflyfish
Clownfish
Other peaceful, non-aggressive reef fish
Avoid keeping multiple dwarf angelfishes in the same tank unless it is large enough to allow for territory separation. Larger, more aggressive species like triggerfish or lionfish should also be avoided.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is important to ensure the Yellow Angelfish thrives:
Water changes (10-20% every two weeks)
Protein skimmer to help maintain water quality
Efficient filtration to keep water clean and clear
Monitor water parameters to ensure stable conditions
The Yellow Angelfish is also known for grazing on algae, so it can help control algae growth in the tank. However, if algae growth becomes excessive, it may indicate poor water quality or an imbalance in nutrients.
Additional Considerations:
Size and Space: Although the Yellow Angelfish is small in size, it requires adequate space in the aquarium. A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended, but a larger tank (50 gallons or more) will allow the fish to thrive and reduce the chances of territorial aggression.
Temperament: While the Yellow Angelfish is typically peaceful, it can become territorial and may nip at other fish if stressed. Providing hiding places and a well-planned tank layout with enough space for each fish is essential for minimizing stress and aggression.