False Lemon Peel Angelfish - Centropyge heraldi

The False Lemon Peel Angelfish is a vibrant yellow dwarf angelfish known for its solid coloration and hardy nature. Often confused with the true Lemon Peel Angelfish (Centropyge flavissima), this species lacks the blue accents around the eyes and fins, giving it a cleaner, more uniform appearance. It’s a lively addition to fish-only or carefully monitored reef aquariums.

Description:

Common Name: False Lemon Peel Angelfish

Scientific Name: Centropyge heraldi

Family: Pomacanthidae

Size: 4–5 inches (10–13 cm)

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Difficulty: Moderate

Reef Safe: With caution

Native Region:

Native to the Indo-Pacific, including areas around the Philippines, Indonesia, and Great Barrier Reef, where it inhabits coral-rich lagoons and reef slopes.

Aquarium Setup:

Tank Size: Minimum of 55 gallons

Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

pH: 8.0–8.4

Salinity: 1.023–1.025

Substrate: Live rock with caves and crevices for grazing and shelter.

Additional Tips:

• Reef Caution: May nip at soft and stony corals, especially LPS and clam mantles—monitor closely in reef setups.

• Compatibility: Can be territorial toward other dwarf angelfish; best kept singly unless in a very large tank.

• Diet: Omnivorous; feed a varied diet of marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and angelfish-specific frozen or pellet foods.

• Activity: Constant grazer and active swimmer—benefits from established live rock for natural foraging.