Deep Water Coral Beauty Angelfish

Deep Water Coral Beauty Angelfish

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Centropyge bispinosa sp.

Overview
Reef Compatible: WITH CAUTION
Diet: Omnivore
Temperament: Docile
Origin: Eastern Asia

The twospined angelfish (Centropyge bispinosa), also known as the dusky angelfish or coral beauty, is a captivating marine species found in the Indo-Pacific. Here are some intriguing details about it:

1. Description:

   • The twospined angelfish has a basic dark purplish-blue body with irregular orange vertical bars on its flanks.
   • Its dorsal, caudal, and anal fins feature bright blue margins.
   • Dorsal fin: 14 spines and 17–18 soft rays; anal fin: 3 spines and 17–19 soft rays.
   • Maximum total length: 10 centimeters (3.9 inches).

2. Distribution:

   • Found in the Indo-Pacific, its range extends from East Africa (between Tanzania and South Africa) to the Tuamotu Islands of French Polynesia.
   • Northward to the Izu Islands of Japan and southward to Lord Howe Island.
   • In Australia, it occurs from the Rowley Shoals and Scott Reef in Western Australia to Christmas Island and along the east coast from Queensland to New South Wales.

3. Habitat and Behavior:

   • Depth range: 5 to 50 meters (16 to 164 feet) in coral reefs within lagoons, rubble patches, and drop-offs.
   • Lives in small social groups with a single male and a few females.
   • Protogynous hermaphrodites: Dominant females change sex to male if the existing male dies or disappears.
   • Feeds on algae and detritus

4. Aquarium Trade:

   • Frequently found in the aquarium trade due to its striking appearance.

Next time you’re near a reef, keep an eye out for this beautiful coral beauty!