Pearlscale Angelfish

Introduction

The Pearlscale Angelfish (Centropyge vrolikii), also known as the Vrolik’s Angelfish or the Vrolik’s Dwarf Angelfish, is a stunning and vibrant marine fish. Recognized for its vivid coloration and distinctive, pearly scales, it adds a touch of elegance and beauty to any reef tank. Native to the Indo-Pacific region, particularly around Indonesia, this species is highly sought after for its peaceful nature and captivating appearance. The Pearlscale Angelfish is a dwarf angelfish, making it suitable for smaller reef tanks where it can thrive among other peaceful marine species.

Scientific Name

Centropyge vrolikii

Common Name

Pearlscale Angelfish, Vrolik’s Angelfish, Vrolik’s Dwarf Angelfish

Water Quality and Temperature

• Temperature: The optimal water temperature range for the Pearlscale Angelfish is between 74°F to 80°F (23°C to 27°C), reflecting the warm tropical waters of their natural habitat.
• pH Level: Maintain a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4, which corresponds to their natural slightly alkaline environment.
• Salinity: The specific gravity should be between 1.022 and 1.025, ensuring the water’s salinity is within a safe range.
• Alkalinity: Keep the alkalinity (KH) between 8 to 12 dKH, ensuring stable water conditions that benefit the health of the fish.

Feeding

• Omnivorous Diet: The Pearlscale Angelfish is omnivorous and thrives on a balanced diet that includes both plant-based and meaty foods.
• Algae and Seaweed: Offer algae-based foods such as spirulina, nori, or marine algae sheets to meet its herbivorous needs.
• Marine Pellets and Flakes: High-quality pellets or flakes designed for angelfish or dwarf angelfish provide essential nutrients.
• Live and Frozen Foods: Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and copepods for protein.
• Feeding Frequency: Feed the Pearlscale Angelfish 2 to 3 times a day, providing a mix of vegetable matter and protein to ensure a balanced diet.

Tank Mates

• Peaceful Companions: The Pearlscale Angelfish is generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially if kept in smaller tanks. Suitable tank mates include other peaceful species such as clownfish, gobies, wrasses, and other reef-safe fish.
• Avoid Aggressive Species: Avoid keeping them with larger or more aggressive fish, as they may stress the Pearlscale Angelfish or cause injury.
• Coral and Invertebrates: This species is generally reef-safe, though some individuals may nip at soft corals or sessile invertebrates, so caution is advised if you have delicate corals in your tank.

Substrates and Tank Decorations

• Substrate: Use fine sand or a mixture of fine gravel as the substrate, which mimics the soft and sandy environments of the coral reefs where they are found.
• Rock Structures: Live rock or artificial rock structures are crucial for creating hiding spots and territories within the tank. The Pearlscale Angelfish enjoys having plenty of places to retreat to when feeling stressed.
• Coral Reefs: Adding coral reefs, whether live or artificial, can enhance the tank’s natural appearance, giving the Pearlscale Angelfish plenty of places to graze on algae and explore.

Sexing

• Male vs. Female: There are no significant physical differences between male and female Pearlscale Angelfish. However, males are sometimes slightly larger and may exhibit more territorial behavior, especially when competing for a mate.
• Breeding Behavior: This species is unlikely to breed in captivity without proper conditions, but in the wild, they form monogamous pairs and lay eggs in rocky crevices. They are pelagic spawners, meaning they release eggs and sperm into the water column.

Breeding

• Difficult to Breed in Captivity: Breeding the Pearlscale Angelfish in captivity is rare and challenging, requiring a large, well-established tank with stable water parameters.
• Spawning: In the wild, these fish spawn in pairs, typically in the early morning hours, with the eggs being laid in crevices in the rocks. The parents guard the eggs until they hatch into larvae.
• Larval Care: Once the eggs hatch, the larvae are planktonic and drift with the currents before eventually settling on the reef.

Maximum Size and Longevity

• Size: The Pearlscale Angelfish can grow up to about 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) in length, which makes it a perfect choice for smaller to medium-sized reef tanks.
• Lifespan: With appropriate care, the Pearlscale Angelfish can live for 5 to 7 years in captivity, though some individuals may live even longer in ideal conditions.

General Information

The Pearlscale Angelfish is an elegant and striking addition to any reef tank. Its distinctive pearl-like scales and vibrant colors make it a standout species that brings beauty and character to its environment. Due to its peaceful nature and relatively manageable care requirements, it’s a great choice for intermediate and experienced marine aquarium keepers looking for a colorful and active fish.

A Fun Fact

The Pearlscale Angelfish, while being a beautiful fish, is often considered more of a challenge to care for than other dwarf angelfish due to its sensitivity to water quality and diet. However, when properly cared for, it becomes one of the most stunning and rewarding species in a reef aquarium!