The Orange Angelfish (Centropyge fisheri) is a captivating and highly sought-after reef fish, known for its vibrant orange coloration and distinctive markings. This small, but striking fish adds a splash of color to the underwater world.
Description & Characteristics
Centropyge fisheri boasts a vivid orange body with a contrasting black margin along its dorsal and anal fins. The fish also exhibits a dark spot on its caudal peduncle, adding to its unique appearance. This species can reach a maximum size of 8.4 cm, making it relatively small compared to other angelfish species.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Orange Angelfish prefers to inhabit coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region. Found in the western Pacific Ocean, Centropyge fisheri thrives in depths ranging from 10 to 95 meters, showcasing its adaptation to a variety of marine environments. This species is often observed in areas with a strong current and in the presence of coral formations.
Taxonomy
The species Centropyge fisheri belongs to the Class: Teleostei, Order: Acanthuriformes, and Family: Pomacanthidae. This family, known as the angelfish family, is characterized by its diverse array of vibrant colors and intricate patterns, making them a popular choice for aquariums.
Feeding
Centropyge fisheri is a food specialist, primarily feeding on algae, particularly diatoms and filamentous algae. They also consume brine shrimps and other small invertebrates. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of frozen foods such as large mysis. These feeding habits make them an important component of the coral reef ecosystem, contributing to the health and balance of the reef environment.
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