Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Territorial

They are highly secretive and easily stressed. Acclimation takes significant time and extreme patience. They are peaceful but extremely timid centerpieces.

Diet

Omnivore

They naturally graze on sponges and tunicates. High-quality frozen sponge diets are necessary. Mysis shrimp provide excellent supplementary protein.

Sex ratio

Harem

They function as protogynous hermaphrodites naturally. Keeping a single specimen is usually best. Bonded pairs require very large, quiet setups.

Feeding frequency

THREE_FOUR_DAILY

Multiple small feedings daily are required. Consistent food availability helps them acclimate. Mature live rock provides essential grazing material.

Bioload

Low

Colin's angelfish produce a standard moderate bioload. They require pristine deep-water quality conditions. Highly efficient biological filtration is completely vital.

Flow

Strong

They prefer gentle to moderate deep-water currents. Overly turbulent wavemakers cause them severe stress. Steady flow replicates their calm natural habitat.

Jump risk

Yes

Colin's angelfish carries a moderate jump risk, comparable to other dwarf angelfish species, particularly when newly introduced to a system. Because they naturally inhabit deep-water, dimly lit reef slopes, brightly illuminated or high-traffic aquariums can easily spook them into a panicky, upward dart. If harassed by larger or more dominant reef inhabitants, their flight response may culminate in them breaching the water's surface. Equipping the aquarium with a custom-fitted mesh lid is a necessary precaution to protect these rare and sensitive fish.

Reproduction

Oviparous

They spawn pelagically in the evening hours. Captive breeding is incredibly rare and demanding. Larvae need highly specialized microscopic live foods.

Compatibility & tankmates

With caution

They are incredibly shy and delicate. Only house them with extremely peaceful mates. Aggressive fish will force them into hiding.

Tank level

Bottom

They hug the lowest rocky sections tightly. They rarely venture into the open column. Expansive caves are critical for their security.