Description
Scientific Name: Centropyge flavicauda
Common Names: Whitetail Pygmy Angelfish, Pygmy Yellowtail Angelfish, White-tailed Dwarf Angel
Maximum Length: 3″
Minimum Aquarium Size: 30 Gallons
Aquarium Suitability: Generally Durable and Hardy
Diet: Omnivorous; requires a balanced diet of spirulina, marine algae, high-quality angelfish preparations, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and other meaty items.
Reef Safe: With caution
Temperament: Semi-aggressive; can be territorial toward similar species or small fish. Best as the only dwarf angel in smaller setups.
Captive Care: The Whitetail Pygmy Angelfish captivates with its petite frame and contrasting colors, making it a charming focal point in nano reefs where it actively explores rockwork. Suitable for intermediate hobbyists, it benefits from plenty of live rock for grazing and shelter, along with frequent feedings to support its metabolism. Ensure a tight-fitting lid to avoid escapes.
Fun Facts:
- Compact Charmer: One of the smallest dwarf angels at just 3 inches, Centropyge flavicauda fits well in modest tanks while displaying a blue body with a striking white tail and yellow accents.
- Algae Enthusiast: This pygmy angel grazes on algae and small invertebrates, helping to keep tank surfaces tidy in setups with natural growth.
- Territorial Traits: Despite its size, it can assert dominance over tankmates, adding an element of reef drama while coexisting peacefully with dissimilar species.
- Indo-Pacific Native: Found in coral reefs across the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa to Polynesia, it thrives in environments with crevices and moderate currents, mirroring wild habitats in captivity.