Care
The Lemonpeel Angelfish is known from coral rich, shallow lagoons and exposed seaward reefs from the lower surge zone, to a depth of 50m (164 ft). Juvenile fish (which sport a large, distinctive black ocellus edged in blue on each flank) are very secretive and stay close to the safety of corals and small crevices, whereas adults venture further afield.
The Lemonpeel Angelfish requires a mature aquarium with plenty of rockwork, on which it can graze for the microalgae, and in which it can hide. This vibrantly-coloured fish is rather notorious for picking on zoanthids and LPS corals (see Reef Aquarium Compatibility below) so caution is advised when adding to a reef set up; the larger the tank, the better, as the fish is then less likely to continually pick at any particular sessile invertebrate and cause irreparable damage. A frequent, varied feeding regime will also help in this respect.
Like most other members of the Centropyge genus, the Lemonpeel Angelfish does not grow very large, but nevertheless, it is an active species which requires plenty of space. The least problematic combinations of fish come from mixing them with dissimilar tank mates and combining them with other dwarf angels can be problematic unless certain measures are taken. As they're protogynous, all young individuals are potentially female, and animals of equal size are likely to clash over hierarchy with dominant individuals becoming male. For this reason, it's best to keep them singly or in pairs or groups where a significant size difference makes dominance straightforward with minimal fighting. This also applies when attempting to house different species of Centropyge together and generally speaking, it's always best to add smaller individuals to established ones. This mimics the natural state where young fish settle out the plankton and into existing communities of territorial fishes. The greater the difference in size, the less aggression will be displayed although solitary fish will often be overstimulated if they've been kept alone for an extended period. Ritualised display postures appease aggression in the more dominant fish, but close supervision may be needed and keeping multiple dwarf angels is best attempted in large aquaria with plenty of rockwork. Buying existing pairs or groups is easier, as the stressful first date scenario can be avoided.
Natural hybrids of this fish and the Half-black Angelfish (C. vrolikii) are sometimes available. Interestingly, the Lemonpeel Angelfish is mimicked by juvenile Acanthurus pyroferus tangs, who probably benefit from the large spines below the gill covers that predators know are a feature of dwarf angels. As the surgeonfish develops its own blades for defence, this protective deception is no longer needed by adults.
Feeding
This species requires more algae and seaweed in its diet compared to other dwarf angelfish. Should be offered a varied diet including dry foods containing Spirulina & marine algae as well as meatyfare such as vitamin/Spirulina-enriched brineshrimp, Mysis shrimp, special sponge-based Angelfish preparations, and finely chopped krill/squid/cockle/mussel. Feed small amounts at least 3 times per day. Fish that are well-fed are more likely to leave invertebrate life alone.
Breeding
Occasional spawnings have been reported in captivity, although successfully rearing the young once the eggs have hatched is challenging without the right facilities. Dwarf angelfish are broadcast spawners,releasing eggs and milt simultaneously into the water column at dusk.
