Flame Angelfish

The Flame Angelfish is a small but strikingly beautiful marine species found in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around coral reefs in areas such as Hawaii, Fiji, and the Philippines. This vibrant fish is renowned for its fiery orange-red coloration, accented with bold black vertical stripes across its body, which make it stand out in any aquarium. Typically growing up to 4 inches in length, the Flame Angelfish is a popular choice among reef aquarium enthusiasts for its stunning appearance and relatively manageable size.

Flame Angelfish are omnivores, with a diet that primarily consists of algae, small invertebrates, and detritus. In their natural habitat, they graze on algae growing on coral reefs and rocks. In captivity, they thrive on a variety of foods, including algae-based foods, spirulina, frozen or live brine shrimp, and high-quality pellets. This species plays an important role in controlling algae growth in reef ecosystems, helping to maintain a balanced environment for corals and other marine organisms.

Known for their active and curious nature, Flame Angelfish are often seen darting in and out of crevices and coral formations in the wild, where they seek shelter and food. They can be territorial, especially when housed in smaller tanks or with other similar species. While they are typically peaceful toward other species, they may become aggressive toward other angelfish or similarly shaped fish, so it’s best to house them with non-competitive tankmates in larger aquariums.

Flame Angelfish are relatively hardy but require stable water conditions, including proper salinity, temperature, and pH levels. They are best kept in a well-established, well-filtered aquarium with plenty of live rock and hiding spots. In ideal conditions, Flame Angelfish can live for 5 to 7 years in captivity. While not considered endangered, their populations in the wild can be impacted by habitat degradation and the aquarium trade, though their status remains stable.

Fun Facts:
Despite their small size, Flame Angelfish are known for their bold personalities and can be quite territorial, often establishing their own little "home" in the aquarium.

The species is one of the few angelfish species that can be kept in reef tanks without causing significant damage to corals, making them a popular choice for reef aquarists.

The Flame Angelfish's bright coloration and distinctive markings are thought to serve as a warning to potential predators, signaling that it can defend itself with sharp spines on its dorsal fin.