Care
The Flagfin Angelfish is knownfrom coral-rich lagoons and seaward reefs, at depths between 3-60m (9.8-197ft).Juvenile fish are very secretive and are only seen below 25ft (82ft), whereasthe adults tend to venture further afield in loose groups in search of theirmain food preference of sponges and tunicates. This is a difficult fish to keepin the home aquarium because of its feeding requirements, and an ongoing sourceof frozen sponge-based Angelfish rations is requisite in its long term care.Flagfin Angelfish will always fare best in spacious, mature aquaria with anabundance of live rock and an open swimming space along the front of the tank. Establishedsystems will provide much more in the way of nutritious micro-invertebrates inthe living rock and this will help to supplement the specialised diet. Insmaller systems, such critters will be quickly depleted, which is why it isdoubly important that this active fish is given ample space. Flagfin Angelfishdemand excellent water quality - thoroughly filtered and well oxygenated, withareas of decent current. Keep only one per tank, and not with any otherangelfish. If you have your heart set on one of these beautiful fish and canmeet all its requirements, it is best to try and acquire a smaller specimen asthese have the best record of acclimatising well to the home aquarium. Whenfirst introduced, it may be quite shy and spend some time hiding amongst therockwork, but it will soon gain confidence as it settles in and grows. Do nothouse with prized corals and sponges, as these will be eaten (see Reef AquariumCompatibility below). Not suitable for beginners.
Feeding
Should be offered a varieddiet consisting mainly of special sponge-based Angelfish preparations(available as frozen cubes), plus meaty fare such as Mysis shrimp, vitamin/Spirulina-enrichedbrineshrimp, and finely chopped krill/squid/cockle/mussel, plus Spirulina &marine algae. Feed small amounts at least 3 times per day.
Breeding
This species has not been bredin the home aquarium.
