Cocos Lemon Peel Angelfish- the Indian Ocean form of the Lemonpeel Angel, a fish that even seasoned aquarists may never encounter! There is still some debate as to whether this fish is a stand alone species or an area variant. Even so the Cocos Lemonpeel Angel is a hidden gem with a story worth telling. Unlike its more familiar Pacific relative, the Lemon peel angelfish, this Angel is instantly recognizable by its unusual eyes. Instead of a blue ringed eyes, these fish have vivid blue iris that gives it a quirky, almost bewildered look. Its limited distribution and infrequent appearance in the aquarium trade make it a prized catch for collectors. As only a handful ever make it into shipments. These Angelfish belong to the Pomacanthidae family. A group famous for their vivid colours. The name is Greek for, “cover” (poma) and “thorn” (akantha), which refers to the pair of strong spines on the gill cover. They are also thought to be responsible for the appearance of the “Tigerpyge” Hybrid Angelfish. Cocos Lemon Peel Angelfish Ecology. These fish occur in the Indian Ocean, around Christmas Islands and Cocos-Keeling island. In coral rich areas, such as lagoons, or in more exposed areas like seaward reefs and surge zones. Here they feed mainly on algae. Cocos Lemon Peel Angelfish are also protogynous hermaphrodites. Meaning they start life as female and turn male as they get older. In the Aquarium. Angelfish in general are not considered reef safe due to the risk of them eating coral. Dwarf Angels, by the large, are considered less of a risk but do still have the potential to nip corals. The risk can vary depending on a few factors. If you want specific advice for your set up, feel free to call for advice. It is important to have plenty of nooks or crannies where your Cocos Lemon Peel Angelfish can explore and feel at home. Keepers may also want to get a jump guard to stop any accidents. Cocos Lemon Peel Angelfish are omnivores and do best when fed a varied diet. They will accept frozen Mysis shrimp and enriched frozen brine shrimp. We enrich all our frozen food with garlic and vitamins. These are great for keeping fish healthy by providing them with the nutrition otherwise lost in frozen food. In doing so, these additives support their immune system and increase longevity. Cocos Lemon Peel Angelfish will eat masstick and graze on marine algae, that can be secured to the side of the tank with clips. Over time they will accept high-quality pellet or flake. We adapt all our Angel Fish to aquarium life before they leave us. We focus on their health, and most are eating a good quality flake food and/or pellet before being offered for sale. Dwarf Angelfish can live in a mixed group or alone. Depending on some variables, it may also be possible for them to be pairs. Feel free to give us a call with any questions on this matter.
