IntermediateSemi-AggressiveReef Safe with Caution

Eibli Angelfish

Centropyge eibli

Family: Pomacanthidae · Dwarf Angelfish

Also known as: Eibli's Angelfish, Blacktail Angelfish, Red Stripe Angelfish

Max Size

Min Tank

55 gal

Lifespan

5-10 years

Origin

Indo-Pacific, Indonesia

Diet

Omnivore

Swims

Middle

About

The Eibli Angelfish is an attractive and underappreciated dwarf angelfish characterized by its distinctive pattern of orange and black vertical stripes set against a pearly gray body. The rear portion of the body and the caudal peduncle display a dark black coloration, while the tail fin is highlighted with bright orange. A thin blue ring surrounds the eye, adding a subtle accent to its refined appearance.

In the wild, the Eibli Angelfish is found across the Indo-Pacific region, primarily in the eastern Indian Ocean, inhabiting coral-rich reef slopes and lagoons at moderate depths. It feeds on a mix of algae, sponges, and small invertebrates found growing on live rock surfaces. Like other Centropyge species, it is a protogynous hermaphrodite that lives in small harems.

This species is moderately hardy in captivity and adapts well to established aquariums with ample live rock for grazing. The Eibli Angelfish is known to hybridize with several other Centropyge species in the wild, including C. vroliki and C. flavissima. While it is generally considered reef-safe with caution, some individuals may nip at soft coral polyps and clam mantles, so monitoring is advised in reef systems.

Feeding & Diet

Omnivore

Eibli Angelfish are omnivores that graze on algae and small invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, provide a varied diet including spirulina-based flakes or pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, and angelfish preparations containing sponge matter. Supplement with nori seaweed and ensure plenty of live rock for natural grazing.

Compatibility

reef-cautionsemi-aggressivecommunity-compatiblecoral-nipper-risk

The Eibli Angelfish is semi-aggressive and may be territorial toward other dwarf angelfish or similarly shaped fish. It generally coexists well with clownfish, tangs, wrasses, and other community reef fish. Only one Centropyge species should be kept per tank unless the system is very large.

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Breeding

Very Difficult

Eibli Angelfish are protogynous hermaphrodites that spawn at dusk by releasing pelagic eggs into the water column. Captive breeding has not been achieved on a commercial scale, and raising the tiny larvae remains extremely challenging.