Angelfish - Midnight SML

This species is quite easy to identify with it being one of the only few species of fish that is uniformly black all over its entire body. Even though it can reach a size of up to 5 inches (13cm) it is still classified as a dwarf species of angelfish.

There are no visible differences between males and females of this species. This could explain the high level of difficulty in breeding them in captivity.

These dwarf angelfish are considered one of the more peaceful species. They will stand out from the bright colouration of most fish species and coral in a typical marine tank making these coal coloured creatures an excellent addition to your aquarium.

They are found all over the East Indian - Western Pacific region from Komodo and Japan all the way over to Western Australia, Tonga and the Togean Islands. They have been spotted at depths down to 70 metres and love hanging around rocky outcrops and other coral-rich areas. Midnight Angelfish are often found on their own or in pairs.

Tank Recommendations for the Midnight Angelfish

The smallest tank size for this species of fish is 115 litres. Due to being relatively shy initially they should be kept in a tank with plenty of hiding spaces. Live rock is important and must be arranged in a thoughtful manner that will create overhangs and caves which they can swim through. Noxious corals can be added but this fish will more than likely pick at a variety of things in a normal reef setting.

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Midnight Angelfish is one of the least aggressive of its type and as such will do best when kept with other peaceful to semi-aggressive fish species. Although you can keep them with other Dwarf Angelfish, a large enough tank will be needed to avoid territory disputes and all species should be added at the same time.

Usually Compatible

This species of Dwarf Angelfish will not bother invertebrates like crabs, snails and shrimp and generally will not nip at soft corals. Larger species of Angelfish, Blennies and Butterflyfish will get along with them fine. Other good choices of tank buddies include Clownfish, Damselfish, Filefish and Grunts. Parrotfish, Pufferfish and Tangs would be other great options too.

Sometime Compatible

As mentioned before other types of live coral must be chosen extremely carefully along with certain species of invertebrates. Sometimes all these fish need to do is to "try" a new food source and will end up ultimately destroying it. So be prepared to remove anything that the angelfish has taken an interest in. Caution should also be taken when housing with Lionfish, Groupers and Frogfish especially the bigger ones. Batfish, Eels and Wrasses must also be watched carefully too.

Rarely Compatible

Seahorses and Pipefish will be too scared to come out and eat in the presence of this fish and may starve to death. Sharks will almost certainly see the angelfish as prey and should not even be considered when choosing tank buddies for these guys.

Feeding your Midnight Angelfish

This species is omnivorous and in the wild feeds on a diet consisting mainly of algae and crustaceans. You should provide a well-balanced diet containing all the necessary vitamins in order to mimic this and maintain a healthy immune system. High-quality angelfish preparations and spirulina along with mysis or brine shrimp, krill and other meaty items would be ideal. Feed them two to three times a day, roughly the amount it can consume in a minute or two. Also, ensure to provide plenty of areas to graze on algae on live rock between feedings.