Singapore Angel (Chaetodontoplus mesoleucus)
Max Size: 7 inches
Diet: Omnivore
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Reef Compatible: With Caution. May eat soft polyps.
Minimum Tank Size: 120 gallon
The Vermiculated Angelfish, commonly known as the Singapore Angelfish, has a body structure that is similar to that of a butterflyfish. It has blue lips and a yellow nose that abruptly transition to a black vertical band over the eyes, giving the impression of a mask. This mask is bordered by a thin vertical band of yellow, followed by a wider vertical band of white. The body of the fish is primarily black, and its dorsal and anal fins are outlined in brilliant sapphire-blue. The caudal fin is usually yellow but may also be gray.
The Singapore Angelfish requires a higher level of care and is considered a "Difficult" species to keep. While some may adapt well, others may hide and refuse to eat. To ensure optimal conditions, a minimum of a 120-gallon aquarium with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding places should be provided. The Singapore Angelfish is known to nip at stony and soft corals (sessile invertebrates) and clam mantles, and will also graze on microalgae, filamentous algae, and diatoms.
The Singapore Angelfish is hermaphroditic, difficult to breed, and does not have distinguishable variations in color between male and female.
To maintain the health of the Singapore Angelfish, its diet should consist of finely shaved frozen shrimp, mysis, and other meaty items.