Reef Safe Angelfish
Which angelfish are reef-safe? See the safest picks, “with-caution” dwarfs, and species to avoid—plus setup, feeding, and tank mate tips.
By AFT Editorial •October 3, 2025
| Topic | Answer |
|---|---|
| Scientific group | Family Pomacanthidae (marine angelfish) |
| Common genera | Centropyge (dwarf), Pomacanthus, Holacanthus, Pygoplites (Regal), Apolemichthys, Genicanthus |
| Popular species | Coral Beauty, Flame, Emperor, Queen, Regal |
| Adult size | Dwarf 3–4 in (7–10 cm); medium 6–12 in (15–30 cm); large 12–18 in (30–46 cm) |
| Minimum tank | Dwarf 55–70 gal; medium 90–125 gal; large 180–220+ gal |
| Water | 75–81°F (24–27°C), SG 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, NH3/NO2=0, NO3<20 ppm |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive; keep one per tank (or a mated pair); add to established systems last |
| Reef safety | Centropyge often “reef-safe with caution”; large angels usually not reef-safe; Genicanthus generally reef-safe planktivores |
| Diet | Omnivore: marine algae, sponge-based foods, quality pellets/frozen (mysis, brine), vitamins/selenium enrichment |
| Lifespan | 8–15 years; large species can exceed 20 years with excellent care |
| Difficulty | Intermediate–advanced (stable, mature marine systems strongly recommended) |
Provide plenty of caves and crevices among the live rock for hiding and establishing territory. Also, ensure open swimming areas, especially for active species.
Saltwater angelfish are primarily omnivores, with diets varying slightly by species. A diverse diet is crucial for their health, coloration, and immune system.
Feeding Schedule: Feed small amounts 2-3 times a day.
Angelfish can be territorial, and their compatibility largely depends on their size, species, and the order of introduction.
This is the most critical distinction.
For a full breakdown of the risks, see our complete guide to reef-safe angelfish.
Introduce Wisely: Always add angelfish after more docile inhabitants, or introduce multiple angelfish (of compatible species) at the same time into a large, well-aquascaped tank to diffuse aggression.
Like all marine fish, angelfish are susceptible to diseases, often triggered by stress or poor water quality.
Prevention: Robust quarantine for all new arrivals (4-6 weeks), stable water parameters, varied and nutritious diet, and minimal stress.
Marine angelfish (family Pomacanthidae) are colorful reef fish known for striking patterns and laterally compressed, disc-shaped bodies.
Dwarf Centropyge angels are reef-safe with caution and may nip LPS, zoanthids, and clams. Large angels are usually not reef-safe. Genicanthus species are generally considered reef-safe planktivores.
Dwarf angels typically need 55–70 gallons, medium angels 90–125 gallons, and large angels 180–220+ gallons with ample swimming space and rockwork.
Keep 24–27 °C (75–81 °F), specific gravity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, ammonia/nitrite 0, and nitrate under ~20 ppm with strong filtration and aeration.
Offer a varied omnivorous diet: marine algae and nori, sponge-based preparations, high-quality pellets, and frozen foods such as mysis and brine shrimp.
Most tanks should house a single angel or a bonded pair. Mixing species risks aggression unless the system is very large with multiple territories.
Many angels are semi-aggressive and territorial, especially toward similar-shaped fish. Add them last to established communities and provide hiding spaces.
With excellent care, dwarf angels often live 8–12 years, while larger species can exceed 15–20 years in mature systems.
Yes. Many species, such as the Emperor angelfish, undergo dramatic color and pattern changes from juvenile to adult stages.
Use drip acclimation to match salinity and temperature, dim lights, and quarantine for at least 2–4 weeks before adding to the display.
Many medium and large angels graze on sponges in the wild. Provide sponge-containing foods to support long-term health and coloration.
Adding angels to immature tanks, undersizing the aquarium, poor diet variety, skipping quarantine, and mixing incompatible or similarly shaped species.
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