Species Description…

Scientific Name: Chaetodontoplus mesoleucus

Common Name: Vermiculated Angelfish

Species Group: Angelfish

Habitat: Reef Safe with Caution

Care Level: Advanced

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Diet Type: Omnivore

Role in Aquarium: Showpiece Fish

Max Fish Length: 8 (inches)

Min Aquarium Size: 120 (gallons)

Native Range: Angelfish

Chaetodontoplus Mesoleucus - The Vermiculated Angelfish

Chaetodontoplus Mesoleucus (The Vermiculated Angelfish)

Native to the Indo-Pacific, commonly found in deep reef slopes, lagoons, and rocky coastal areas.
Recognizable by its silver-white body with intricate vermiculated (wavy) patterns and a contrasting black head.
A medium-sized angelfish that prefers a well-structured environment with plenty of hiding spots.
Usually observed alone or in pairs, often retreating to crevices when feeling threatened.
Best suited for an aquarium with live rock, stable water conditions, and a peaceful tank setup.

Omnivorous, feeding on sponges, algae, tunicates, and small invertebrates in its natural habitat.
Requires a balanced diet including sponge-based angelfish foods, frozen mysis shrimp, and high-quality marine pellets.
May take time to transition to prepared foods but will eventually accept a varied diet.
Multiple small meals per day support digestion and help maintain energy levels.
A nutrient-rich diet enhances immune health and maintains its vibrant coloration.

Prefers coral-rich reef environments with moderate to strong water movement.
Frequently found in deep reef structures and rocky formations where it can take cover.
Aquarium setups should include live rock to provide grazing opportunities and hiding places.
Requires high-quality filtration and stable water parameters to prevent stress.
Providing shaded areas alongside open swimming spaces encourages natural behaviors.

Optimal water temperature: 74-80°F (23-27°C) to ensure overall well-being.
Preferred pH range: 8.1-8.4, with a salinity level of 1.020-1.025.
Requires frequent water changes and careful monitoring of ammonia and nitrate levels.
Not reef-safe, as it has a tendency to nip at corals, clams, and sessile invertebrates.
Providing live rock enhances grazing opportunities and helps mimic its natural habitat.

Generally peaceful but can become territorial toward other angelfish.
Compatible with tangs, larger wrasses, and other semi-aggressive marine species.
Not recommended for reef tanks due to its tendency to graze on coral polyps.
Best housed with similarly sized fish to prevent bullying or competition for food.
Providing ample space and structured rock formations minimizes stress and aggression.

A cautious species that enjoys exploring its environment but prefers retreating to safe spaces when startled.
Frequently seen grazing on rock surfaces and algae-covered areas.
May take time to acclimate but becomes more active and confident with consistent care.
Providing live rock encourages natural foraging behavior and adds environmental enrichment.
Over time, it may recognize its caretaker and become more interactive, particularly during feeding sessions.