Care Level: Advanced
Temperament: Peaceful
Reef Compatible: With Caution
General Description: The Multibar Angelfish, also known as the Multibarred, Many Banded or Barred Angelfish, is found throughout the Indo-Pacific. A deep water species found at depths of 60 to 200 feet, the Multibar angel will occasionally make its way into the aquarium trade. When it does, it touches the heart of aquarists with its charming appearance and demeanor! The Multibar angel has a very deep body that is white in color, with eight vertical bands and a yellow belly. Juveniles will have less developed barring and a blue ocellus “eye” in their dorsal fin that fades with maturity. One of the most docile species in Paracentropyge, Multibar angels can be somewhat elusive at first but will 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, Multibar angels in turn come with a higher price tag. An adult Multibar angel can grow to approximately 5″. Note: All of our Multibar 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 Multibar 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 Multibar 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 Multibar 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 Multibar angel. Only one Multibar angel should be kept per aquarium. It is best to add a Multibar 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 Multibar angel. The Multibar 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 Multibar 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: Small: 2″ to 2-3/4″; Medium: 3″ to 3-3/4″; Large: 4″ or larger.
Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.