Description
Yellow Banded Angelfish (Paracentropyge multifasciatus)
Overview
The Yellow Banded Angelfish is a striking dwarf angelfish distinguished by its bold vertical black-and-white stripes and a distinctive yellow/orange band across the midsection. Reaching around 10 cm (4 inches) in length, it’s one of the more delicate angelfish species and is highly sought after for reef aquariums. Its shy and secretive nature, along with a somewhat finicky diet, makes it more challenging than other dwarf angelfish.
Origin
Distributed across the Indo-Pacific region, including the Maldives, Fiji, Indonesia, and Micronesia. It is usually found in deeper reef slopes (20–70 m), living among caves, crevices, and rubble areas.
Feeding
Naturally, this angelfish grazes on sponges, tunicates, and encrusting organisms. In captivity, it can be difficult to wean onto prepared foods. A varied diet is essential:
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Frozen mysis and brine shrimp
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Chopped clam, shrimp, or squid
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Specialized angelfish diets containing sponge matter
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Spirulina and marine algae-based foods
Feed 2–3 small meals daily to encourage feeding response.
Tank Mates
The Yellow Banded Angelfish is shy and best housed with peaceful tank mates that won’t outcompete it for food. Suitable companions include:
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Peaceful reef fish such as gobies, fairy wrasses, anthias, and small reef-safe fish
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Avoid aggressive or highly active species (e.g., triggers, large wrasses)
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Avoid housing with other dwarf angelfish unless in very large systems, as territorial disputes may occur
Aggression
Generally peaceful but shy. They may become territorial toward other dwarf angels in confined spaces, but are otherwise not aggressive. They prefer plenty of hiding spaces and caves where they can retreat if threatened.
Experience Level
Advanced. This species is best suited for experienced marine aquarists due to its finicky feeding habits, sensitivity to water quality, and preference for mature reef systems. Wild specimens may take weeks to accept prepared foods.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.023–1.025 SG
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Hardness (dKH): 8–12
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Tank Size: Minimum 55 gallons (210L) with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding
A mature reef tank with stable water parameters, abundant rockwork, and caves is essential for this angelfish to feel secure and thrive.
