Flagfin Angelfish (Adult)

The Flagfin Angelfish (Apolemichthys trimaculatus), also known as the Yellowface Angelfish, is a popular species in marine aquariums due to its striking appearance and relatively peaceful nature compared to other angelfish species. Here's some detailed information on their care requirements:

General Information:

• Scientific Name: Apolemichthys trimaculatus
• Common Names: Flagfin Angelfish, Yellowface Angelfish
• Max Size: Typically grows up to 8–10 inches (20–25 cm) in length.
• Native Habitat: Found in the Indo-Pacific region, including the coral reefs of Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful but can be territorial. Best kept in larger aquariums or reef tanks with other peaceful species.
• Lifespan: Can live for 10–15 years with proper care.

Tank Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

   • Minimum tank size: 70–100 gallons (265–380 liters) for a single adult.
   • Larger tanks (over 100 gallons) are ideal, especially if you plan to keep it with other fish.

2. Water Parameters:

   • Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C).
   • Salinity: 1.023–1.025 specific gravity (SG).
   • pH: 8.1–8.4.
   • Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH.
   • Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm.
   • Nitrate: Less than 10–20 ppm.

3. Water Quality:

   • Excellent filtration is important as angelfish are sensitive to water quality.
   • Regular water changes (10–20% weekly) to maintain water quality and reduce nitrate levels.
   • A protein skimmer is highly recommended for maintaining water quality, especially in reef setups.

Diet and Feeding:

• Diet: Omnivore.
  • In the wild, they feed on algae, sponges, and small invertebrates.
  • In captivity, they should be fed a varied diet including high-quality pellets, flakes, frozen or live foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and marine algae (spirulina or nori).
• Feeding Frequency: Feed 2–3 times per day in small amounts. It’s important not to overfeed to prevent water quality issues.

Tank Mates:

• The Flagfin Angelfish is generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially towards other angelfish or fish of similar size or shape.
• Best kept with other peaceful species, such as wrasses, gobies, clowns, and tangs.
• Avoid keeping them with very aggressive species or other large angelfish, as they may become aggressive or stressed.
• Can be kept in a reef tank, but be mindful of their occasional nipping at corals or sessile invertebrates, especially soft corals.

Habitat and Aquascaping:

• Reef Tank: Flagfin Angelfish can live in reef tanks, but caution should be exercised as they may occasionally nip at certain corals or sessile invertebrates.
• Rockwork: Provide plenty of live rock for hiding and grazing, as they enjoy picking at algae growing on rock surfaces.
• Swimming Space: They prefer a tank with open swimming space but also appreciate areas with crevices and caves where they can hide and feel secure.
• Lighting: Moderate to bright lighting is ideal for algae growth, but not so intense that it stresses the fish or other reef inhabitants.

Behavior:

• Flagfin Angelfish are generally peaceful, especially if they are the only angelfish in the tank. They can, however, be territorial and show aggression toward other angelfish or fish that resemble them in shape or color.
• They are relatively slow-moving fish and often spend a lot of time grazing on algae and exploring the rockwork in the tank.
• They do not require overly complex care, but they do benefit from a well-established tank with plenty of live rock and a good balance of algae growth.

Breeding:

• In captivity, breeding is rare but possible with proper care.
• They are protogynous hermaphrodites, meaning they start life as females and can change sex to male if needed in a group.
• Spawning typically occurs in pairs in larger tanks with stable water conditions.

Common Health Issues:

• Marine Ich (Cryptocaryon irritans): Like many marine fish, Flagfin Angelfish are susceptible to marine ich. Quarantining new fish before introducing them to the display tank can help prevent the spread of disease.
• Skin Erosion or Lacerations: Can occur due to aggression from tank mates or if the fish is stressed.
• Gill Flukes and Internal Parasites: Routine observation for signs of illness, such as lethargy or abnormal behavior, is important.

Summary of Care Requirements:

• Tank Size: 70–100 gallons minimum.
• Water Temp: 72–78°F (22–26°C).
• Water Quality: Excellent filtration, regular water changes.
• Diet: Varied omnivorous diet, including algae, shrimp, and pellets.
• Tank Mates: Peaceful species, avoid other angelfish.
• Environment: Live rock, moderate lighting, and plenty of open swimming space.
• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care.

By providing a stable, clean, and well-maintained environment, you can enjoy the beauty and peaceful nature of the Flagfin Angelfish for many years in your aquarium.