Flameback Angelfish; Afr. – Centropyge acanthops

Flameback Angelfish

The Flameback Angelfish is a small, hardy dwarf angelfish known for its bright orange dorsal and deep blue body. It maxes out around 3 inches and works well in tanks 55 gallons or larger. It’s active, confident, and spends most of its time picking at rockwork.

Flameback Angelfish Behavior

This fish is generally peaceful, though it can be territorial in smaller setups. In reef tanks, it may nip at soft corals and zoanthids. Some individuals behave well, others don’t—it’s a case-by-case situation. Best to monitor when first introduced.

Diet of the Flameback Angelfish

Omnivore. It accepts most prepared foods but should be offered a mix of algae and protein.

Feeding suggestions:

• Mysis shrimp

• Marine flakes with spirulina

• Frozen angelfish blends

• Nori or seaweed sheets

Feed 2–3 times daily.

Origin

Collected from the western Indian Ocean. Common locations include:

• Madagascar

• Mauritius

• Seychelles

• Kenya

• Maldives

Color intensity can vary slightly by region.

Tank Setup

Minimum tank size: 55 gallons
Needs live rock, hiding spots, and good flow.
Compatible with most peaceful tankmates but avoid housing with similar-looking dwarf angels.

Flameback Angelfish Sizing (Approximate)

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