Description
Centropyge loriculus, commonly known as the Flame Angelfish, is one of the most iconic and visually striking dwarf angelfish in the marine aquarium trade. This premium species is celebrated for its intense red-orange body coloration accented by bold vertical black striping and electric blue highlights along the dorsal and anal fins. Constantly active and confident, the Flame Angelfish brings movement, contrast, and personality to reef and fish-only systems alike, making it a long-standing favorite among experienced aquarists.
Native to the Central and Western Pacific, the Flame Angelfish thrives in mature aquariums with ample live rock, where it grazes naturally and establishes territory without overwhelming tank mates.
Lighting: Moderate; standard reef or fish-only lighting is sufficient—coloration remains strong under blue-leaning LED systems
Flow: Moderate; benefits from varied water movement that mimics natural reef conditions
Placement: Mid to lower swimming zones with abundant rockwork for grazing and shelter
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
Diet: Omnivorous; requires a varied diet including marine algae, spirulina-based foods, high-quality angelfish preparations, and frozen mysis or brine shrimp to maintain coloration and health
Aggression: Semi-aggressive; may show territorial behavior toward similar dwarf angelfish
Adult Size: Up to 10 cm
Care Level: Intermediate – hardy once established but sensitive to poor water quality and underfeeding
Compatibility: Reef-safe with caution; generally compatible with most community fish but may nip at some LPS, soft corals, or clam mantles in reef systems
