Pygmy Cherub Angelfish

⭐ Core Identity A compact, intensely colored dwarf angelfish from the Caribbean and Western Atlantic. Known for its deep sapphire‑blue body, bright orange face, and bold personality packed into a 2.5–3 inch adult size. One of the smallest Centropyge species, making it a favorite for nano and mid‑size reef customers. 🎨 Appearance Striking royal‑blue body with electric sheen Orange/yellow facial mask extending to the chest Dark blue dorsal and anal fins with lighter edging Compact, rounded body typical of dwarf angels Adults max out around 2.5–3 inches — truly “pygmy” compared to other Centropyge 🧠 Temperament & Behavior Feisty, territorial, and confident despite small size Often becomes boss of the tank if housed with timid fish Active swimmer; constantly grazes rock surfaces Can be semi‑aggressive toward similar‑shaped fish (other dwarf angels, small dottybacks, firefish) 🏝️ Habitat & Tank Requirements Minimum tank: 30 gallons (larger preferred for mixed communities) Rockwork with caves and grazing surfaces is essential Thrives in stable, mature reef systems Not a jumper, but still benefits from covered tanks Excellent for Caribbean‑themed displays 🍽️ Diet Omnivore with strong grazing instincts Ideal foods: Mysis Brine Spirulina blends Angel‑specific frozen foods (with sponge content) High‑quality pellets (TDO, PE) Will graze on microalgae throughout the day 🩺 Hardiness & Care Level Hardy once acclimated Sensitive to: Poor water quality Rapid parameter swings Generally copper‑tolerant in QT Benefits from mature rock for natural grazing 🧪 Reef Compatibility Semi reef‑safe Risk level: May nip LPS, zoas, and clam mantles Usually leaves SPS alone In your shop’s displays, they behave well in mixed reefs with plenty of food and grazing surfaces 👫 Compatibility Works well with: Wrasses Gobies Larger peaceful fish Use caution with: Other dwarf angels (high aggression) Small, timid species Best kept solo — pairs are difficult and often fight 🌍 Origin Caribbean Florida Keys Lesser Antilles Western Atlantic reefs 📦 Retail Notes for Seahorse Aquarium Supply Eye‑catching coloration makes it a strong impulse‑buy fish Great for customers with 30–75 gallon tanks Easy to photograph for your species cards Clear messaging about “semi reef‑safe” helps set expectations One of the most budget‑friendly dwarf angels, good margin and turnover 🧭 Quick Summary Size: 2.5–3″ Temperament: Semi‑aggressive Reef Safe: With caution Diet: Omnivore Minimum Tank: 30 gallons Care Level: Moderate Origin: Caribbean / Western Atlantic