Lemonpeel Angelfish

The Lemonpeel Angelfish is a dazzling dwarf angelfish species that captivates aquarists with its vivid, uniform lemon-yellow body accented by a striking electric blue ring around the eye and electric blue edging along the margins of the gill cover, dorsal fin, and anal fin. This vibrant contrast of yellow and blue creates a visually arresting appearance that makes it one of the most popular members of the Centropyge genus. Growing to a maximum of about 5.5 inches, the Lemonpeel Angelfish is a moderately sized dwarf angel that is well-proportioned for medium aquariums. Its bright coloration remains consistent throughout its life, making it a reliable splash of color in any reef setup.

In the wild, Lemonpeel Angelfish are found in shallow lagoons and outer reef slopes throughout the Central and Western Pacific, typically at depths of 3 to 80 feet. They inhabit areas with rich coral growth and abundant algae, spending their days picking at live rock surfaces and coral rubble for filamentous algae, sponge material, and small invertebrates. Like all Centropyge species, they are protogynous hermaphrodites, with the dominant female in a harem transitioning to male if the existing male is lost. In the aquarium, they are active and inquisitive, constantly exploring every crevice and surface of the rockwork.

The Lemonpeel Angelfish is considered reef-safe with caution, as individual specimens may develop a habit of nipping at LPS coral polyps, soft coral tips, zoanthids, and clam mantles. This tendency varies between individuals and cannot be reliably predicted. Well-fed specimens in mature tanks with abundant live rock for natural grazing are less likely to become coral nippers. Keeping the fish well-nourished with a varied diet that includes algae-based and sponge-enriched preparations reduces the risk. Only one dwarf angelfish should be kept per tank unless the system is very large with extensive rockwork, as Centropyge species are typically territorial toward their own kind.