The Pygmy Angelfish, also known as the Cherubfish, Cherub Angelfish, or Atlantic Pygmy Angelfish, is a species of marine ray-finned fish, a marine angelfish belonging to the family Pomacanthidae.
This brightly colored and patterned Pygmy Angelfish is endemic to the western Atlantic Ocean, found in reefs at depths between 1–60m.
With their intense blue and orange hue, it’s easy to see why the Pygmy Angelfish is one of the most popular saltwater aquarium fish.
These Angelfish can be challenging to care for despite their beauty and are best suited for experienced aquarists.
This complete care guide will cover everything you need to know about keeping Pygmy Angelfish in your home aquarium. So, without further ado, let’s jump right in!
Species Summary
| Scientific name: | Centropyge argiare |
| Common names: | Pygmy Angelfish, Cherubfish, Cherub Angelfish, Atlantic Pygmy Angelfish |
| Family: | Pomacanthidae |
| Color: | Blue and Orange |
| Origin: | Western Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Ocean |
| Size: | 3 inches |
| Life expectancy: | 5 years |
| Temperament: | Semi-aggressive |
| Tank size: | 55 gallons |
| Water temperature: | 72°F – 82°F (22°C – 28°C) |
| Specific gravity: | 1.020 to 1.025 |
| Water pH: | 8.1 to 8.4 |
| Water hardness: | 8 to 12 dKH |
| Tankmates: | Compatible with peaceful fish |
| Diet: | Omnivore |
The Pygmy Angelfish is a reef-dwelling fish that prefers to live in areas with plenty of hiding places. These fish live in coral reefs and lagoons in the wild. It is essential to provide plenty of hiding places and live rocks for your Pygmy Angelfish to feel comfortable in the home aquarium.
Cuvier first described them in 1831 by the French naturalist Georges Cuvier from specimens collected in the West Indies. The Pygmy Angelfish is one of the most popular saltwater aquarium fish. They are brightly colored and have a unique pattern that makes them stand out in any aquarium.
The cost of a Pygmy Angelfish can vary depending on the size and color of the fish. They are typically priced between $10 and $20.
Pygmy Angelfish Appearance
The Pygmy Angelfish is a brightly colored fish that has a unique pattern. They are typically orange or yellow with blue stripes. Some species can also be found in shades of green and brown. The fins of a Pygmy Angelfish are usually orange or yellow.
Like other dwarf Angelfish, the Pygmy Angelfish has a small mouth and a long snout. They also have a large dorsal fin and pectoral fins. And these fish are also known for their bright blue eyes.
They resemble mini versions of larger angelfish species, making them popular for saltwater aquariums. And because of their smaller size, they are also a good choice for nano aquariums.
You can enjoy the look and color of the Pygmy Angelfish without having to worry about them getting too big for your aquarium.
Pygmy Angelfish Size & Growth Rate
The size of a Pygmy Angelfish can vary depending on the species. The average size is 3 inches. Some species can grow up to 5 inches.
The growth rate is relatively slow. They typically grow 1/2 to 1 inch per year.
Pygmy Angelfish Lifespan
The lifespan of a Pygmy Angelfish is 5 years, and in some cases, they have been known to live up to 10 years.
However, it is essential to note that the water quality in their environment can significantly affect their lifespan. Poor water quality can lead to health problems and shorten the lifespan of your fish.
Pygmy Angelfish Breeding
They are challenging to breed in captivity. They are known to be shy and secretive when it comes to spawning. In the wild, they typically spawn in pairs or small groups.
To increase your chances of success, it is best to keep a group of at least 5-6 fish and allow them to choose their mates. The chosen pair will then separate themselves from the group and clean a small area of the tank where they will lay their eggs.
The female will lay up to 500 eggs which the male will fertilize. The eggs will hatch in 24-48 hours, and the fry will be free-swimming a few days later.
The fry is tiny and will need to be fed microscopic food such as baby brine shrimp or rotifers. They can also be fed commercially available fry food.
Pygmy Angelfish are not easy to breed in captivity, and success is not guaranteed. However, it can be a rewarding experience if you can breed them successfully.
Pygmy Angelfish Behavior & Temperament
They are feisty creatures that can be aggressive towards other fish, especially those similar in size and shape. They are also known to nip at the fins of other fish.
Because of their aggression, keeping them with other peaceful fish that are too large to be seen as potential prey is best. I recommend no more than one male per tank, as they will fight each other for dominance.
They are not recommended for reef tanks as they may pick at or eat small invertebrates. However, achieving this balance is not always possible, and many people have had great success keeping pygmy angels in reef tanks.
One way that you can reduce aggression is by keeping your fish well-fed. A well-fed fish is less likely to be aggressive than a hungry fish. You can also provide them with plenty of hiding places so that they feel secure and less likely to attack other fish.
This extra space will also help reduce aggression, as fish that are too close together are more likely to attack each other.
Pygmy Angelfish are intelligent and exciting fish to watch. They are known to be curious and often approach divers and swimmers in the wild. They may follow you around the tank and beg for food in captivity. They are active fish that enjoy swimming in all areas of the tank.
Pygmy Angelfish Care
The Pygmy Angelfish is a relatively easy fish to care for. They are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. However, good water quality is essential to ensure their health and longevity.
In the wild, they live in coral reefs and lagoons. Providing plenty of hiding places and live rocks is essential to feel comfortable in the home aquarium.
It is a peaceful fish that gets along well with other fish. However, they can be aggressive towards other dwarf Angelfish. It is best to keep them with fish that are larger than them.
It is an Omnivorous fish that feeds on small invertebrates in the wild. Providing them with a varied diet is essential to ensure their health. You can also supplement your diet with live foods.
We will review everything you need about caring, including their diet, tank requirements, water parameters, and joint health problems.
Pygmy Angelfish Tank Size
The minimum tank size for a Pygmy Angelfish is 55 gallons. However, it is best to provide them with a larger tank if possible. An 80-gallon tank is a good size for one or two.
However, if you plan on keeping more than two, providing them with a larger tank is best. A 120-gallon tank is a good size for a group.
Providing plenty of hiding places and live rocks is essential when setting up your tank. They will also appreciate a sandy substrate.
Pygmy Angelfish Water Parameters
The Pygmy Angelfish is a saltwater fish that prefers a temperature range of 72°-82° Fahrenheit. The pH of the water should be 8.1-8.4, and the salinity should be 1.020-1.025.
The hardness of the water is not as important as the other water parameters. However, it is best to keep the hardness between 8-12 dKH.
It is essential to provide a sound filtration system for your tank. The Pygmy Angelfish is a relatively peaceful fish that can produce much waste. A sound filtration system will help keep the water clean and healthy for your fish.
Providing good water quality to ensure health and longevity is also essential. It is best to do a water change of 20% every month.
Pygmy Angelfish Filtration
The Pygmy Angelfish is a relatively peaceful fish that can produce much waste. A sound filtration system is essential to keeping the water clean and healthy for your fish.
A sound filtration system for a Pygmy Angelfish tank should include mechanical and chemical filtration. Mechanical filtration will remove large particles of waste from the water. Chemical filtration will remove small waste particles and help keep the water clear.
It is also good to add a protein skimmer to your filtration system. A protein skimmer will remove dissolved organic compounds from the water and help to keep the water quality high.
Some recommended filtration systems for their tank include:
- The Fluval Canister Filter: This filter is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
- The Aqua Clear Power Filter: This filter has a good reputation and is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It includes mechanical and chemical filtration.
- The Eheim Canister Filter: This high-quality filter will extensively filter your Pygmy Angelfish tank. It includes mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration.
Protein Skimmer
A protein skimmer is an excellent addition to a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It will remove dissolved organic compounds from the water and help to keep the water quality high.
Some recommended protein skimmers for their tank include:
- The AquaC Remora Pro Protein Skimmer: This protein skimmer is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It is easy to use and maintain.
- The Coralife Super Skimmer: This protein skimmer has a good reputation and is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank.
- The Tunze Comline Doc Skimmer: This high-quality protein skimmer will extensively remove dissolved organic compounds from your Pygmy Angelfish tank.
Heating
The Pygmy Angelfish prefers a temperature range of 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit. It is essential to provide a good heater for your tank.
Some recommended heaters for their tank include:
- The Eheim Jager Aquarium Heater: This heater is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It is easy to use and maintain.
- The Fluval E Series Heater: This has a good reputation and is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank.
- The Hydor ETH Inline Heater: This high-quality heater will do a great job keeping your Pygmy Angelfish tank at the desired temperature.
Plants
The Pygmy Angelfish is a peaceful fish and can be kept with most plants.
Some recommended plants for their tank include:
- The Java Fern: This plant is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It is easy to care for and does not require much maintenance.
- The Anubias Nana: We love this plant for a Pygmy Angelfish tank! It is easy to care for and does not require much maintenance.
- The Cryptocoryne wendtii: This plant is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It is easy to care for and does not require much maintenance.
Lighting
The Pygmy Angelfish does not require special lighting. An essential fluorescent aquarium light will be fine for your tank.
Some recommended lights for a Pygmy Angelfish tank include:
- The Zoo Med AquaSun Aquarium Hood: This light is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It includes both fluorescent and incandescent bulbs.
- The Coralife Aqualight T5 HO Fluorescent Light: This light has a good reputation and is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank.
- The Aqua-Tech Power filter: This high-quality light will do a great job lighting your Pygmy Angelfish tank.
Co2 Systems
A Co2 system is not required for a Pygmy Angelfish tank, but it can be beneficial. A Co2 system will help maintain the pH of your tank and prevent algae growth.
Some recommended Co2 systems for a Pygmy Angelfish tank include:
- The Fluval Edge CO2 Kit: This Co2 system is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It is easy to use and maintain.
- The AquaVista 500 Aquarium Co2 Kit: This Co2 system has a good reputation and is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank.
- The Reef Octopus Elite 150 Intellicube:
This is a high-quality Co2 system that will do a great job of maintaining the pH of your Pygmy Angelfish tank.
Substrate
The Pygmy Angelfish does not require a particular substrate. Bare aquarium gravel will be fine for your tank.
Some recommended substrates for a Pygmy Angelfish tank include:
- The Fluval Stratum: This substrate is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It is easy to care for and does not require much maintenance.
- The Aqua soil: This substrate has a good reputation and is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank.
- The Seachem Flourite: This high-quality substrate will do a great job of providing nutrients for your Pygmy Angelfish tank.
Decorations
The Pygmy Angelfish does not require unique decorations. A few pieces of live rock and some plants will be fine for your tank.
Some recommended decorations for a Pygmy Angelfish tank include:
- Caves: Caves provide a great hiding place for your Pygmy Angelfish and can also help to create a more natural-looking environment.
- Live Rock: Live rock is a great way to add interest to your Pygmy Angelfish tank. It also provides a good surface for beneficial bacteria to grow.
- Driftwood: Driftwood is a great way to add interest to your Pygmy Angelfish tank. It can also help to create a more natural-looking environment.
Water Conditioners
The Pygmy Angelfish does not require special water conditioners. An essential aquarium water conditioner will be fine for your tank.
Some recommended water conditioners for a Pygmy Angelfish tank include:
- The API stress coat+: This water conditioner is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It is easy to use and helps to remove harmful chemicals from your water.
- The Seachem Prime: This water conditioner has a good reputation and is a good option for a Pygmy Angelfish tank.
- The API stress zyme: This high-quality water conditioner will extensively remove harmful bacteria from your Pygmy Angelfish tank.
Other Tank Accessories
There are a few other things that you will need for your Pygmy Angelfish tank. These include an air pump, a ph meter, and a thermometer.
Some recommended tank accessories include:
- Air Pump: An air pump is a necessary piece of equipment for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It will help to keep the water oxygenated and prevent stagnation.
- pH Meter: A pH meter is a necessary piece of equipment for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It will help you to maintain the proper pH levels in your tank.
- Thermometer: A thermometer is a necessary piece of equipment for a Pygmy Angelfish tank. It will help you to maintain the proper temperature in your tank.
Water Changes
Water changes are essential for keeping your Pygmy Angelfish healthy. You should do a water change of 20% every 2 weeks. Some things to keep in mind when doing a water change for your Pygmy Angelfish include:
- Use a gravel vacuum to remove all the waste from the bottom of your tank.
- Be sure to use dechlorinated water when doing your water changes.
- Use a Python Water Change System to make doing water changes easier.
The steps for doing a water change are as follows:
- Vacuum the gravel at the bottom of your tank.
- Refill your tank with dechlorinated water.
- Use the Python Water Change System to remove all the dirty water from your tank.
- Refill your tank with dechlorinated water.
- Add the appropriate amount of water conditioner to your tank.
Cleaning The Tank
Cleaning the tank is an integral part of keeping your Pygmy Angelfish healthy. It is recommended that you clean the tank every two weeks.
To clean the tank, follow these steps:
- Remove all the decorations from your tank.
- Vacuum the gravel at the bottom of your tank.
- Clean your tank’s surfaces with a sponge or cloth.
- Rinse all the decorations in dechlorinated water.
- Replace all the decorations in your tank.
- Add the appropriate amount of water conditioner to your tank.
Cleaning The Filter
Cleaning the filter is an essential part of keeping your Pygmy Angelfish healthy. It is recommended that you clean the filter every two weeks.
To clean the filter, follow these steps:
- Remove the filter from your tank.
- Rinse the filter media in dechlorinated water.
- Replace the filter media in your filter.
- Put the filter back in your tank.
Testing The Water
Testing the water is an essential part of keeping your Pygmy Angelfish healthy. It is recommended that you test the water every two weeks.
To test the water, follow these steps:
- Fill a clean cup with aquarium water.
- Test the pH levels in the water with a pH test kit.
- Test the ammonia levels in the water with an ammonia test kit.
- Test the nitrate levels in the water with a nitrite test kit.
- Test the nitrate levels in the water with a nitrate test kit.
- Record all the results in a notebook.
Pygmy Angelfish Common Possible Diseases
Pygmy Angelfishes are susceptible to several diseases.
Some of the most common diseases include:
White Spot Disease
White spot disease is a parasitic infection that causes white spots on the fish. It is caused by a protozoan called Cryptocaryon irritans.
Symptoms of white spot disease include:
- White spots on the body of the fish
- The fish scratching itself against objects in the tank
- The fish breathing heavily
- If you suspect your fish has white spot disease, you should take it to a veterinarian for treatment.
Ich
Ich is a parasitic infection that causes white spots to appear on the fish. It is caused by a protozoan called Ichthyophthirius multifiliis.
Symptoms of ich include:
- White spots on the body of the fish
- The fish scratching itself against objects in the tank
- The fish breathing heavily
- If you suspect your fish has ich, you should take it to a veterinarian for treatment.
Finrot
Finrot is a bacterial infection that causes the fins of the fish to rot. It is caused by a bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Symptoms of fin rot include:
- Frayed or ragged fins
- Redness or inflammation in the fins
- The fish scratching itself against objects in the tank
- The fish breathing heavily
- If you suspect your fish has fin rot, you should take it to a vet for treatment.
Velvet
Velvet is a parasitic infection that causes the fish to develop a velvet-like coating. It is caused by a protozoan called Amyclostoma sp.
Symptoms of velvet include:
- A velvet-like coating on the body of the fish
- The fish scratching itself against objects in the tank
- The fish breathing heavily
- If you suspect your fish has velvet, you should take it to a veterinarian for treatment.
Pygmy Angelfish Preventing Diseases
The best way to prevent diseases is to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your fish. Some things you can do to prevent disease include:
- Vacuum the gravel at the bottom of your tank.
- Clean your tank’s surfaces with a sponge or cloth.
- Rinse all the decorations in dechlorinated water.
- Replace all the decorations in your tank.
- Add the appropriate amount of water conditioner to your tank.
- Clean the filter regularly.
- Test the water regularly.
- Quarantine new fish before adding them to your tank.
Pygmy Angelfish Treatment And Medications Of Diseases
If you think your fish is sick, the best thing to do is take it to a vet. They will be able to diagnose the disease and prescribe the appropriate medication.
Some common medications used to treat fish diseases include
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. They are available in both pill and liquid form.
- Antifungals: Antifungals are used to treat fungal infections. They are available in both pill and liquid form.
- Antiparasitic medications: Antiparasitic medications are used to treat parasitic infections. They are available in both pill and liquid form.
Pygmy Angelfish Food & Diet
Pygmy Angelfish are omnivores, so they will eat various foods.
Some of the best foods for Pygmy Angelfish include:
- Brine shrimp
- Daphnia
- Bloodworms
- Tubifex worms
- Mysis shrimp
- Krill
- Copepods
- Cyclops
- Algae
- Vegetables
You can give live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods. It is essential to offer various foods to ensure your fish get all the necessary nutrients.
They will exist on marine algae for much of their diet and accept meaty items and live foods.
Flakes, pellets, or granules are not accepted unless they contain high marine algae or Spirulina levels.
Pygmy Angelfish Diet Foods To Avoid
There are some foods that you should avoid feeding.
Some of these foods include:
- Bread
- Cookies
- Pretzels
- Processed cheese
These foods are high in sugar and fat and can cause health problems for your fish.
Pygmy Angelfish Feeding Schedule
Your Angel will enjoy eating from the same place each day and should be given food 2-3 times daily in small amounts that can be consumed within 5 minutes.
Overfeeding should be avoided as uneaten food will sink to the substrate and decompose, polluting the water and potentially leading to disease.
It is best to target feed your Angel so you can be sure it is getting enough to eat without overfeeding the tank. This can be done using a pipette or a small syringe to target the food toward your fish.
Also, offer various foods to ensure your Angel gets all the nutrients it needs.
Pygmy Angelfish Tank Mates
Avoid peaceful, calm, and slow-moving fish, as they will likely be seen as potential prey. I also recommend avoiding fish similar in size and shape to pygmy angels, as they may be mistaken for rivals and attacked.
Some good tank mates for pygmy angels include:
- Cardinalfish
- Fairy wrasses
- Flame wrasses
- Anthias
- Basslets
- Dottybacks
- Hogfish
- Large angels
- Tamarin wrasses
- Yellow tangs
While most of these fish are peaceful, some (like tangs and dotty backs) can be aggressive toward other fish. Be sure to do your research before adding any fish to your tank.
Fish To Avoid
Fish that you should avoid keeping with pygmy angels include:
These fish are potential prey for pygmy angels and will likely be attacked and eaten.
Advantages Of Having Pygmy Angelfish In Your Tank
The first advantage is that they are beautiful fish. Their unique appearance will add interest and beauty to your aquarium.
Another advantage is that they are fascinating to watch. They are active fish that enjoy swimming in all areas of the tank. They are also known to be curious and may approach divers and swimmers in the wild. They may follow you around the tank and beg for food in captivity.
A final advantage is that they are relatively easy to care for. They are hardy fish that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. They are also not picky eaters and will accept most types of food.
Disadvantages Of Having Pygmy Angelfish In Your Tank
One disadvantage is that they are not easy to breed in captivity. They are known to be shy and secretive when it comes to spawning. In the wild, they typically spawn in pairs or small groups. To increase your chances of success, it is best to keep a group of at least 5-6 fish and allow them to choose their mates.
Another disadvantage is that they may be aggressive toward other fish. This is particularly true if you keep them with similar fish in size and shape. It is best to avoid keeping pygmy angels with fish that are potential prey items.
Finally, some people consider that pygmy angels may eat ornamental shrimp and crabs to be a disadvantage. While this is true, it is essential to remember that they are wild animals, which is their natural diet. If you are concerned about them eating your ornamental shrimp and crabs, you can always feed them frozen shrimp or crab meat.
Conclusion
Pygmy angels are beautiful, exciting fish that are relatively easy to care for. They are not easy to breed in captivity, but this can be a rewarding experience if you are successful. They may be aggressive towards other fish, so it is essential to choose their tankmates carefully.
They are also known to eat ornamental shrimp and crabs. Overall, pygmy angels are a great addition to any aquarium.
I hope you found this care guide helpful. Thanks for reading!
