General Information
With their bright colors and intricate patterns, Angelfishes and Butterflyfishes are among the most beautiful fishes found on coral reefs around the world. Biologically, these two families have many similarities. The key difference is that Angelfishes have a defensive spine or “spike” that extends from their gill cover and Butterflyfishes do not. Butterflyfishes also have a pointier snout and are generally smaller (except for the Pygmy Angelfishes, genus Centropyge). During the daytime these fishes gracefully maneuver through the reef, using their brush-like teeth to feed on sponges, tunicates, corals, algae, and detritus.
Aquarium Care & Feeding
Angelfishes are relatively hardy in captivity, generally not sensitive to most variations in water quality, and usually quick to accept frozen and prepared foods. Butterflies have variable hardiness and some species may be more reluctant to accept frozen and prepared foods. This is because there are several species that feed almost exclusively on corals in the wild.
Recommended Foods:
We recommend the following Ocean Nutrition™ products for Angels & Butterflyfish:
- Frozen Formula One
- Frozen Formula Two
- Frozen Formula One (RDF)
- Frozen Formula Two (RDF)
- Frozen Brine Shrimp
- Spirulina Formula
- Frozen Brine Shrimp Plus™
- Angel Formula
- Special Formula VHP
- Mysis
- Chopped Clams
- Chopped Shrimp
- Chopped Squid
- Aqua Yums™ Variety Pack
- Formula One Flakes
- Formula Variety Pack
- Formula Two Flakes
- Spirulina Flakes
- Prime Reef™ Flakes
- Brine Shrimp Plus™ Flakes
- Formula One Pellets
- Formula Two Pellets
- Green Marine Algae
- Brown Marine Algae
- Red Marine Algae
- Clams on the Half Shell