Species Description…

Scientific Name: Chaetodontoplus melanosoma

Common Name: Black Velvet Angelfish

Species Group: Angelfish

Habitat: Reef Safe with Caution

Care Level: Intermediate

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Diet Type: Omnivore

Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish

Max Fish Length: 7 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 120 (gallons)

Native Range: Western Pacific

Chaetodontoplus Melanosoma - The Black Velvet Angelfish

Chaetodontoplus Melanosoma (The Black Velvet Angelfish)

Native to the Western Pacific, often found in deep reef slopes and coastal rocky areas.
Distinguished by its velvety black body with yellow-orange highlights on the dorsal and caudal fins.
A medium-sized angelfish known for its shy nature, often hiding in caves and crevices.
Typically observed alone or in pairs, preferring areas with plenty of cover.
Best suited for an aquarium with mature live rock, stable water conditions, and a peaceful environment.

Omnivorous, feeding on sponges, algae, and small invertebrates in its natural habitat.
Requires a varied diet including sponge-based angelfish foods, frozen mysis shrimp, and high-quality marine pellets.
May take time to adjust to prepared foods but will eventually accept a broad range of offerings.
Multiple small meals per day help sustain its energy and digestive health.
A well-balanced diet ensures vibrant coloration and long-term well-being.

Prefers reef environments with abundant hiding spots, such as caves and overhangs.
Typically found in deeper waters with moderate to strong water movement.
Aquarium setups should feature live rock to encourage grazing and provide a sense of security.
Requires stable, high-quality water conditions with efficient filtration.
Providing shaded areas and open swimming spaces supports its natural behaviors.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to maintain good health.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires regular water changes and careful monitoring of water quality.
Not reef-safe, as it may nip at corals, clams, and sessile invertebrates.
Providing live rock enhances grazing opportunities and supports natural behavior.

Generally peaceful but may be shy around more aggressive tankmates.
Compatible with tangs, larger wrasses, and other semi-aggressive marine species.
Not recommended for reef tanks due to its tendency to graze on corals.
Best housed with similarly sized fish to prevent competition and intimidation.
Providing ample space and structured rock formations helps reduce stress.

A cautious species that often retreats to hiding spots when startled.
Frequently seen grazing on rock surfaces and algae-covered areas.
May take time to adjust to captivity but becomes more confident with routine care.
Providing a rock-heavy aquascape encourages exploration and grazing.
Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and become more interactive, especially during feeding.