Care Level: Advanced

Temperament: Peaceful

Reef Compatible: With Caution

General Description: The Venustus Angelfish, also known as the Purple Masked Angelfish, is found in the Western Pacific Ocean namely from southern Japan, Taiwan and the Ryukyu Islands. A deep water species found at depths of 20 to 130 feet, the Venustus angel periodically makes its way into the aquarium trade from the wild. When it does, it charms aquarists with its appearance, demeanor, and small adult size! The Venustus angel has a very deep-square shaped body that is yellow and indigo [blue-purple] in color, with this indigo coloration forming a mask on the angel’s face. This angel has stumped systematists since it was discovered in 1969, which is why its taxonomy has been all over the place including the genera Holocanthus, Centropyge, and Sumireyakko. Venustus 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 and difficulty of collection, Venustus angels in turn come with a higher price tag. An adult Venustus angel can grow to approximately 5″. Note: All of our Venustus 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, sponge, 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 Venustus 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 Venustus 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 Venustus 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 Venustus angel. Only one Venustus angel should be kept per aquarium unless it is exceptionally large in space and resources to accommodate more than one individual. Compatability with other angelfish, such as those within the Centropyge genus, is variable. We would avoid housing any large angelfish species with a Venustus angel. The Venustus 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 Venustus angel should still be monitored at first in this setting. Some individuals have been observed to nip at clam mantles. Recommended water conditions, 72-78° F, KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.020-1.025.

Purchase Size: Large: 3″ to 4″

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.