Rusty Angelfish (Centropyge ferrugata)

Fish in the family Pomacanthidae. Hard care. Not Reef Safe.

Rusty Angelfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameCentropyge ferrugata
FamilyPomacanthidae
Care levelHard
Reef safetyNot Reef Safe
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size5 in
Minimum tank size75 gallons
Water parametersTemperature: 72-78°F pH: 8.1-8.3 Salinity: 1.023-1.025
Feeding schedule2-3 times daily

Appearance

Centropyge ferrugata is a small, deep-bodied angelfish with rusty orange to rust-brown coloration overall, darker dorsally and slightly lighter ventrally. The dorsal and anal fins have vertical striping, and the body may display faint banding patterns. Juveniles are often darker and more deeply colored than adults.

Diet and feeding

Feed a varied omnivorous diet including high-quality angelfish pellets, frozen mysis shrimp, spirulina-based foods, and occasional blanched vegetables. Offer multiple small feedings daily to maintain health and coloration.

Difficulty and care for the Rusty Angelfish

Moderate - Requires some experience due to specific dietary water or tank requirements. Best suited for intermediate aquarists.

Common health issues

Marine ich, head and lateral line erosion (HLLE), nutritional deficiencies, parasitic infections

Origin and habitat

Indo-Pacific, specifically from Indonesia and the Philippines eastward to Micronesia and Palau, found at depths of 40–200 meters on steep reef slopes.

Log Rusty Angelfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Rusty Angelfish alongside everything else in your reef.