| Scientific Name | Centropyge vrolikii |
| Common Names | Pearlscale Angelfish, Half Black Angelfish |
| Max Length | 5 inches (12 cm) |
| Min Tank Size | 70 gallons (265 liters) for a single fish; larger for pairs to support their territorial behavior and swimming needs. |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, particularly toward other angelfish or similar species. Best kept singly or in pairs, introduced simultaneously. Pair with peaceful, dissimilar tankmates. |
| Reef Safe | ✗ No |
The Half Black Angelfish is a striking species for marine tanks, known for its two-toned coloration. Its body is pale greyish to brownish in the front, darkening to black towards the tail, with whitish scale centers giving a pearlescent effect. The gill slit and pectoral fin base are orange, and the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins have blue margins. Native to the Indo-West Pacific, from East Africa to Indonesia, they inhabit lagoons and seaward reefs in coral-rich areas at depths of 1-40 meters. Their curious nature and need for hiding spots make them a rewarding choice for aquarists with experience managing their dietary and territorial demands.
Omnivorous, primarily feeding on algae in the wild. In aquariums, offer algae-based flakes or pellets with spirulina, supplemented with frozen mysis shrimp or brine shrimp. Feed small amounts 2-3 times daily. Algae-covered live rock encourages natural grazing.
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