Melas/Keyhole Angel (Centropyge tibicin)

[Rothie]

Does anyone have any experience with this angel?

 

[thor32766]

never seen one of those, beautiful fish though

 

[ACBlinky]

I haven't owned one, but worked at a LFS that got them in every once in a while. I'd say approach it as you would any other Centroypge -- make sure it's bold, fat and eating WELL before you purchase it. If it's hiding in the back and refusing food (or just picking at rockwork), leave it in the store.

 

[Rothie]

Would this angel be more aggressive than a Potter's?

 

[Angel*Fish]

No experience, but I think it's worth noting that can reach 7 or more inches. They are one of the largest Centropyges.

Males are supposed to be dark blue while females are blacker.
They are not considered diffcult to keep

HTH

 

[Rothie]

Thanks,Marie.Size isn't a problem.Potters are still my favorite.This is the first time I have seen these for sale.I see Live Aquaria is also selling them.

 

[adtravels]

I have kept one, It was easy to acclimateand ate all manner of food including dry foods. However After 3 months I had to break down the tank and catch it to return it to the lfs.

Reasons:
1. It was the most territorial DA That I have owned (I have had a potters coral beauty and pygmy fireball(have to say potters was the best)), It would nip at all fish including my medium sized tomato clowns.
2. It picked at everything, including zoos clams and sps.

I also found it is one of the largest members of the centropyge and can reach 14 cm

But you could get a less belligerant one I would qt it in a tank with some coral that is not crowded so you could remove it. Also might fair better if added last, which mine was not

Hopw this helps.

 

[Rothie]

Thanks,adtravels.I'll take it off my list.The fish is for a 300G LPS tank.I don't want anything that is territorial,and I especially don't want any coral nippers.I have had great luck with Potters.I'll just keep looking for one I like.