Eibli's angelfish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Eastern Indo-Pacific: from Cocos-Keeling and Sri Lanka to Indonesia, the Philippines, and Solomon Islands. Inhabits coral-rich reefs.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Member of the Pomacanthidae family. One of the larger dwarf angelfish species, growing up to 15 cm (6 inches).

Social Behavior: Territorial and bold. Naturally forms small harems. Constantly inspects and grazes on rockwork within its territory.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Grey-silver body with fine, vertical reddish-orange lines. The caudal fin is black with a vivid neon-blue margin. Males are larger.

Aquarium Setup: Requires an aquarium of at least 150 liters (40 gallons) with plenty of live rock arranged to create numerous shelters and grazing areas.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous. Feed daily nori, spirulina pellets, and flakes, supplemented with high-quality frozen mysis and brine shrimp.

Water Quality: Maintain stable reef parameters: temperature 24-27°C (75-81°F), pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.020-1.025, and KH 8-12.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Caution advised in reef tanks; may nip at LPS/SPS corals and clam mantles. Best kept as the sole dwarf angel.

Aquarium Reproduction: Extremely difficult due to the tiny pelagic larval stages that require microscopic live foods.

Risks and Diseases: Prone to marine ich under stress. Ensure a nutrient-rich diet and a stress-free aquarium environment.