Centropyge Argi : Care and Requirements On The Cherub Pygmy Angelfish

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by Roman Veaila

The most endearing member of the genus Centropyge (Dwarf angelfish family). Centropyge argi is everything regular sized dwarf angelfish are, except in a really small package. They are sold in sizes ranging from an inch to 3 inches. At 3 inches, centropyge argi is fully grown and will remain at that size.

They are commonly known as Cherub Angelfish, Atlantic pygmy angelfish and simply, the pygmy angelfish. They possess a yellow face and a deep royal blue throughout their bodies with electric blue linings on their dorsal and anal fins.

They hail from the Caribbean ocean, from South America, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico. They’re pretty cheap fish as far as angelfish go, priced at $20 to $30 USD, these little angels are a very affordable dwarf angelfish for marine aquariums big or small. They are regularly available and their price reflects that fact.

Despite their size they are a feisty little ball of aggression and can usually defend themselves against larger more aggressive fishes, but they must have space to retreat and hide. Do not add two cherub angelfish into a small tank, one of them will most likely sustain serious injuries. I’ve heard of cherub angelfish harassing a smaller one in a 30 gallon tank until they die. If you want a pair of them, you have two options. Buy a mated pair or introduce both of them together (Only in a large tank) and hope they form a pair eventually.

Due to their small size the cherub angelfish can actually be housed in aquariums as small as 20 gallons. This make centropyge argi uniquely qualified for those that want an angelfish, but lack an aquarium large enough for one. Of course it is recommended that you get the biggest tank you can for your fish. But smaller specimens under 1.5 inches should do fine in a 20 gallon.

Centropyge argi are grazers in their natural habitat. Like surgeonfish, they scan the rock throughout the day for food. They feed on detritus, tiny crustaceans and a wide variety of algae.

A balanced diet should be given in a saltwater aquarium. A wide range of foods should be given, variety is important. Feeding them a single type of food for too long is generally a bad idea. Although there have been hobbyists that have fed them new life spectrum for long periods of time with no ill effects. It seemed like they were doing great in fact. They should be fed a frozen food that has both meat and algae (Formula One, Formula Two), algae and nori sheets as well as a pellet from a reputable brand like New Life Spectrum.

The Pygmy Angel Formula by Ocean Nutrition is just about the perfect food for dwarf angels. Ingredients such as kelp, krill, squid,squid, vitamins and minerals and much more are used in this frozen food. Prior to freezing, the cubes are mixed with these ingredients. Pygmy Angel Formula is only available in frozen form i believe.

About the Author:

Roman Veaila is a hobbyist that has kept numerous reef aquariums. In his spare time he writes guides on marine fishes. Visit his hubpage for more detailed guide on Cherub Angels as well as the always popular Flame Angelfish Guide.

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