Description

Lemonpeel Angelfish (Centropyge flavissima)
Bold, bright, and full of personality—but best kept with caution in reef tanks.

Description:

The Lemonpeel Angelfish is a striking dwarf angelfish known for its vibrant yellow body, accented by electric blue around the eyes, gill margins, and edges of the fins. Native to the Indo-Pacific, this species brings a burst of color and activity to saltwater aquariums.

• Size: Up to 5 inches

• Coloration: Bright yellow with vivid blue ring around the eyes and fin trim

• Lifespan: 5–7 years or more with proper care

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; can be territorial, especially toward other dwarf angelfish

Care Requirements:

Tank Size:

• Minimum 55 gallons

• Larger tanks reduce territorial behavior

Diet:

• Omnivorous

• Feed a varied diet including:

  • Spirulina and marine algae

  • High-quality angelfish pellets or flakes

  • Mysis shrimp and brine shrimp

  • Sponge-based frozen foods (important for long-term health)

• Feed 2–3 times daily

Behavior:

• Active and curious; spends much of its time grazing on rocks

• May nip at soft and stony corals, clams, and polyps

• Best kept singly unless in a very large tank with plenty of space and hiding spots

Reef Compatibility:

• Caution: Semi-reef safe

  • May pick at LPS, zoanthids, and clam mantles

  • Better suited for FOWLR (Fish Only With Live Rock) setups

• Each individual is different—some behave well in reef tanks, others do not

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 74–80°F

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Salinity: 1.023–1.025

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Aquascape Tips:

• Provide plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding

• Caves and overhangs reduce stress and give natural cover

• Active swimmer, so leave open areas for movement

Special Notes:

• Can become aggressive toward similar-looking fish

• Quarantine new additions to monitor behavior and appetite

• Sponge matter in the diet is essential—look for specialized angelfish diets