Fauna
Species

Pearlback Angelfish

Centropyge multicolor

Also known as Multicolor Angelfish, Multicolor Pygmy Angelfish

Pearlback angelfish inhabit steep, deep coral drop-offs and rubble slopes across the central and western Pacific Ocean, typically staying below twenty meters depth. They form small harems dominated by a single territorial male alongside several females that graze constantly on algae and benthic micro-invertebrates. When danger approaches, these agile dwarfs dart into limestone cavities and rubble crevices with exceptional speed.

Reef DwellerTropicalMarine
Pearlback Angelfish reference
(c) Roger Rittmaster, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Roger Rittmaster · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyFilamentous Algae, Copepods, Marine Sponges
Predators
  • Groupers
  • Moray Eels
  • Lionfish
ThreatsAquarium trade collection, coral reef degradation, and warming seas
HabitatsDeep outer reef drop-offs, steep rubble slopes, and coral caves
Life span5–10 years
Classification
  1. FamilyPomacanthidae
  2. SpeciesCentropyge multicolor
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Diving Depth: Look for individuals on steep drop-offs beyond twenty meters using technical scuba.
  • Patience at Rubble: Wait motionless near coral rubble crevices where hidden fish quickly reemerge.
Related species
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