Species Description…

Scientific Name: Centropyge aurantia

Common Name: Golden 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: 4 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 70 (gallons)

Native Range: Western Pacific, including Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Great Barrier Reef

Centropyge Aurantia - The Golden Angelfish

Centropyge Aurantia (The Golden Angelfish)

Native to the Indo-Pacific region, commonly found in coral reefs and rocky crevices.
Recognized for its deep golden-orange coloration with faint vertical striping.
A secretive and shy species that prefers to stay hidden among reef structures.
One of the more challenging dwarf angelfish to acclimate due to its reclusive nature.
Requires a well-structured aquarium with plenty of live rock for shelter and grazing.

Omnivorous, feeding on algae, sponges, and small crustaceans in the wild.
Accepts high-quality marine pellets, frozen foods, and algae-based diets.
Providing sponge-based foods enhances long-term health and coloration.
Multiple small feedings per day help support its energy needs and encourage foraging.
A varied diet ensures strong immunity and a balanced nutritional intake.

Commonly found in reef-rich environments with plenty of rock formations and hiding spaces.
Prefers stable water conditions with moderate to low lighting.
Aquarium setups should include live rock for natural grazing and security.
Thrives in well-maintained marine tanks with minimal stress factors.
Providing shaded areas and multiple hiding spots helps the fish feel more secure.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to maintain proper health.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires efficient filtration and regular water changes to keep water quality high.
Due to its shy nature, it is best introduced to a mature and established aquarium.
Providing an environment with plenty of rock formations encourages its natural behavior.

Generally peaceful but may become territorial if housed with other dwarf angelfish.
Compatible with tangs, wrasses, and other non-aggressive reef fish.
Not entirely reef-safe, as it may nip at soft corals and invertebrates.
Should not be housed with aggressive fish that may intimidate or outcompete it for food.
Providing ample hiding spaces helps reduce stress and encourages a more natural behavior pattern.

A shy and secretive species that spends much of its time hiding in rock crevices.
Often seen darting in and out of cover while foraging on algae and small organisms.
May take time to become comfortable in a new environment but will emerge more frequently once settled.
Providing live rock formations and a well-structured tank helps support its natural instincts.
Over time, it may become more interactive with its caretaker, particularly during feeding.