Care
The Black Velvet Angelfish is known from coastal reefs and drop-offs that are exposed to strong tidal currents, where they occur singly or in pairs, feeding on sponges and tunicates. Juveniles are often observed on deeper rubble slopes with rich invertebrate growth. This species is well suited to peaceful established aquaria with plenty of living rock. Angelfish from the Chaetodontoplus genus are not seen in the trade all that regularly, and many species are highly prized amongst serious hobbyists. The Black Velvet Angelfish, as the common name suggests, is predominantly black but with a variable-sized splash of grey on the face and the anterior upper half of the body. The top of the head is adorned with orange-yellow markings, and the tail and posterior of the dorsal and the anal fin are bright yellow. Juvenile fish sport a pale yellow curved bar just behind the eye and over the gill cover, and the yellow accents on the dorsal and anal fins are much bolder. Tankmates must be chosen carefully as this fish will be reluctant to feed if there is competition from boisterous or aggressive species. Keep only one Black Velvet Angelfish per tank, and not with any other angelfish. The more hiding places within the tank, the more likely it will be that this fish will feel safe enough to swim out and about in full view whilst browsing on the aquarium decor for filamentous algae and diatoms. Caution is advised when adding the Black Velvet Angelfish to reef aquaria, as selected invertebrates may be nipped at; success is more likely in XXL reef systems where the fish is less likely to cause such irreparable damage, although there are absolutely no guarantees. This species is better suited to a fish-only with live rock system, which has been set up to house and meet the needs of shy, peaceful fish only. May also be seen on sale as Brown Angelfish or Phantom Angelfish.
Feeding
Should be offered a varied diet including meaty fare such as vitamin/Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp, special sponge-based Angelfish preparations, and finely chopped krill/squid/cockle/mussel, plus Spirulina & marine algae. Feed small amounts 3 times per day.
Breeding
This species has not been bred in the home aquarium.
