Debelius Angelfish

The Debelius Angelfish is one of the most elusive and coveted dwarf angelfish in the marine aquarium hobby. Named after the renowned ichthyologist Helmut Debelius, this deepwater species displays a striking coloration of rich orange to reddish-orange on the body with electric blue margins on the dorsal and anal fins, and a vivid blue ring around the eye. Its relatively plain body shape belies the intensity of its colors, which become even more pronounced under proper aquarium lighting.

In the wild, the Debelius Angelfish inhabits deep reef slopes and rubble zones in the Western Indian Ocean, primarily around Mauritius and Reunion Island, at depths typically ranging from 50 to 120 meters. This extreme depth preference historically made collection very difficult and specimens extraordinarily expensive. However, the advent of captive breeding programs has made this species more accessible to dedicated aquarists, though it remains a premium fish in the trade.

Keeping the Debelius Angelfish requires expert-level husbandry. As a deepwater species, it prefers subdued lighting and cooler water temperatures compared to shallow-water reef fish. A well-established aquarium with mature live rock providing ample hiding places is essential. Initial acclimation can be challenging, and patience during the feeding training period is critical. Once settled, captive-bred specimens tend to be hardier and more readily accept prepared foods than their wild-caught counterparts.