Pygmy (cherub) Angelfish

The Pygmy Angelfish (Centropyge argi), also known as the Cherub Angelfish, is a small but striking reef fish known for its deep royal blue body accented with bright orange to yellow highlights along the face and fins. Despite its compact size, this angelfish brings bold color and confident personality to smaller saltwater aquariums.

Native to the Caribbean, the Pygmy Angelfish inhabits rocky reef zones where it weaves in and out of crevices in search of algae and small food items. In the aquarium, it thrives in environments with plenty of live rock for grazing and hiding. While generally hardy, it can show territorial behavior toward similar-shaped fish, especially in smaller tanks.

This species is considered reef safe with caution. While many individuals coexist peacefully with corals, some may nip at soft corals, large-polyp stony corals, or clam mantles. A well-fed angelfish in a spacious, established reef is less likely to cause issues.

The Pygmy Angelfish adapts well to captive diets and should be offered a varied menu that includes marine algae, spirulina-based foods, mysis shrimp, and high-quality pellets. Its durability, manageable size, and vivid coloration make it a popular choice for aquarists with some experience.

Quick Facts:

Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
Maximum Size: ~3 inches
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Diet: Omnivore (algae-based foods and meaty frozen foods)
Reef Safe: Reef Safe with Caution

If you’re looking for a compact angelfish with standout color and plenty of personality, the Pygmy Angelfish is an excellent addition to the right saltwater aquarium.