Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: With Caution
General Description: The Colin’s Angelfish, also known as the Blue Backed Angelfish, is found in the Indo-West Pacific namely from the Cocos-Keeling Island. A deep water species found at depths of 60 to 200 feet, the Colin’s angel rarely makes its way into the aquarium trade. When it does, it charms aquarists with its appearance, demeanor, and small adult size! The Colin’s angel has a very deep body that is yellow in color, with an indigo [blue-purple] dorsal patch of color. One of the most docile species in Paracentropyge, Colin’s angels are somewhat elusive at first but can become more confident overtime in the correct environment. Because this fish is found in deeper waters, they can be quite sensitive to transport and often have difficulties acclimating to aquarium life. Due to their increased level of care, Colin’s angels in turn come with a higher price tag. An adult Colin’s angel can grow to approximately 3″. Note: All of our Colin’s angels for sale have been through our comprehensive 28 day quarantine process to ensure you’re receiving a healthy and eating specimen.
Diet Requirements: In the wild angelfish are very omnivorous. A varied diet of high quality algae, proteins, pellets, flakes, and enriched frozen foods are important for best coloration, immune function and optimal health. For this species specifically, abundant algae to graze on is a must. Note: While we only list Colin’s angels that are eating a combination of foods in our store, it is not uncommon for this species to ignore food for a period of time due to the stress of being introduced into a new environment.
Care Requirements: An extremely established minimum 90 gallon aquarium is ideal for a Colin’s angel. Dimmer lighting can be helpful for this species to acclimate more readily. This angelfish absolutely requires a set-up that is 6 months to a year old with abundant live rock to graze algae and diatoms off of. Upon introduction, the Colin’s angel can be quite shy and secretive but will become more courageous with time. Some overhangs or crevices made with live rock will help to make this angel feel at home. Dither fish, such as Green Chromis (Chromis viridis), could help a shy Colin’s angel. Only one Colin’s angel should be kept per aquarium unless it is exceptionally large in space and resources to accomodate more than one individual. It is best to add a Colin’s angel before larger or more active fish in order to allow it to acclimate to the environment and begin feeding. Compatability with other angelfish, such as those within the Centropyge genus, is variable. We would avoid housing any large angelfish species with a Colin’s angel. Given their small adult size, Colin’s angelfish should not be kept with large fish that are predatory in nature. The Colin’s angel is to be added “with caution” into a reef aquarium. While this deep water species would not likely show much interest in corals typical of reef aquariums, a Colin’s angel should still be monitored at first in this setting. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.
Purchase Size: Medium: 2″ to 2-1/2″; Large: 2-3/4″ or larger.
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.
