Keyhole Angelfish (Centropyge Tibicin)

Species Name : Centropyge Tibicin

Care Level : Moderate

Temperament : Semi-aggressive

Color : Blue, Yellow

Diet : Omnivore

Reef Compatible : With Caution

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max Size : 8"

Origin : Coral Sea, Indonesia

Family : Pomacanthidae

Minimum Tank Size : 70 gallons

The Tibicen Angelfish (Centropyge Tibicin), also referred to as the Keyhole Angelfish or Melas Angelfish, is one of the largest of the Centropyge genus.

Somewhat drab when compared to most other angelfish, the Tibicen Angelfish is primarily a dull blue to brownish-blue. The pelvic and lower portion of the anal fins are yellow. The egg-shaped, white vertical bar found in the mid-central body area gives it its name.

Provide a 70 gallon or larger tank for the Tibicen Angelfish. It should have large amounts of live rock for hiding and grazing. Keyhole angelfishes are semi-aggressive and tends to bully fish that are similar in shape, size, or eating behavior when they are established in the tanks. The Tibicen Angelfish angel is not considered reef safe as it may nip at large polyped stony corals, soft corals, zoanthids and clam mantles. 

It is hermaphroditic, very difficult to breed in an aquarium, and has no distinguishable differences in color between male to female.

Keyhole angelfish are known to feed mainly on algae. However, they can be omnivores since they can take in diets consisting of Spirulina, marine algae, high-quality angelfish preparations, mysis or frozen shrimp, and other meaty items in tank conditions. Feeding should be done 2 to 3 times daily.