Description
Golden Pygmy Angelfish – Centropyge aurantia
Centropyge aurantia, known as the Golden Pygmy Angelfish, is a rare and striking dwarf angelfish distinguished by its rich golden-orange body adorned with faint vertical bars and iridescent blue edging around the fins and eyes. Shy and reclusive in nature, this species is typically found among dense coral rubble and caves at moderate depths. In captivity, it requires a calm, mature aquarium with ample live rock for grazing and concealment.
Origin: Western Pacific – from Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands to Fiji and Tonga
Lighting: Moderate (prefers subdued light with shaded retreats)
Flow: Moderate
Tank Placement: Mid to lower regions; appreciates rock structures and caves
Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
Salinity: 1.020–1.025 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Diet: Omnivorous – feeds on filamentous algae, marine sponges, mysis shrimp, and enriched angelfish preparations
Temperament: Semi-aggressive; may be territorial toward similar dwarf angelfish
Size: Up to 10 cm (4 inches)
Care Level: Advanced – requires pristine water quality and well-established live rock
Compatibility: Best kept singly; suitable for peaceful reef tanks with non-aggressive tankmates; may nip at some coral polyps or clam mantles
