Flame angelfish

Centropyge loriculus · Pomacanthidae

Also known as Flaming angelfish

Intermediate

Vivid red-orange with black bars — the showpiece dwarf angel, slightly bolder with corals.

In short: A flame angelfish needs at least 150 L (40 US gal), water at 24–28 °C (75–82 °F) and pH 8.1–8.4. It is semi-aggressive, usually kept singly, and rated intermediate to keep.

Updated 6 October 2026

Minimum tank: 150 L (40 US gal)
Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Adult size: 10 cm (3.9 in)
Group size: 1+

Reef & marine husbandry

Specific gravity: 1.023–1.026
Reef safety: Reef safe with caution
With corals: Often nips zoanthids, LPS and clams.
With inverts: Safe with shrimp and snails.
Minimum in a mixed reef: 150 L (40 US gal)
Minimum fish-only (FOWLR): 150 L (40 US gal)
Aggression: Territorial towards similar angels.
Feeding: Two to three feeds daily.

Care requirements

Minimum tank volume: 150 L (40 US gal)
Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
pH: 8.1–8.4
Hardness: 8–12 dGH
Lifespan: 5–12 years
Diet: Omnivore — angel formula with sponge, nori, mysis, pellets.
Care level: Intermediate

Origin & habitat

Native region: Central and western Pacific
Water type: Saltwater
Biotope: Coral-rich reef slopes
Natural conditions: Mature rock, moderate to strong flow.

Behaviour & stocking

Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Minimum group: 1 fish
Swims: All levels
Good tank mates: Tangs
Clownfish
Wrasses
Avoid: Other Centropyge angels

Breeding & difficulty

Breeding difficulty: Advanced
Sexing: Males grow larger.
Notes: Bred commercially in small numbers only.
Common ailments: Marine ich
Internal parasites

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