Multibar Angelfish (Paracentropyge Multifasciata)

The Multibar Angelfish, also known as the Multi-banded Angelfish, is a strikingly patterned dwarf angelfish with a sleek white body adorned by vertical black bars and subtle hints of yellow and blue. This rare and delicate species is highly sought after by aquarists due to its unique appearance and challenging care requirements. While its smaller size makes it ideal for nano and mid-sized tanks, the Multibar Angelfish is best suited for experienced aquarists due to its specialized diet and sensitivity to water quality.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 4 inches.
• Tank Size: 55 gallons minimum; requires plenty of rockwork for grazing and hiding.
• Diet: Omnivorous; primarily feeds on sponges and algae in the wild. In captivity, it may be reluctant to feed initially but can be trained to accept a varied diet, including high-quality frozen foods, mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, sponge-based angelfish preparations, and nori. Frequent small feedings are recommended.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Semi-peaceful; generally shy but may become territorial with similar-sized angelfish or other dwarf species in smaller tanks.
• Skill Level: Advanced; requires a stable, mature aquarium with excellent water quality and a specialized feeding regimen.
• Reef Compatibility: With caution; may nip at corals, particularly soft corals and polyps, but is generally safe in a well-fed, carefully monitored reef setup.

Special Feeding Requirements - Sponge and Algae Diet
The Multibar Angelfish is notoriously difficult to adjust to prepared foods, particularly when newly introduced to captivity. It requires a varied diet that mimics its natural feeding habits, including sponge-based foods and marine algae. Live rock with natural biofilm and algae growth can help supplement its dietary needs, especially during acclimation. Patience and persistence are key to successfully transitioning this species to frozen or prepared foods.

Compatibility
This angelfish is semi-peaceful and does well in a community tank with other peaceful or moderately aggressive species. Avoid housing it with large, aggressive fish or multiple angelfish in small tanks to prevent territorial disputes.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Multibar Angelfish features a white body with distinctive black vertical stripes, accented with a yellow dorsal fin and hints of blue around the face and edges of the fins. This unique pattern adds an elegant touch to any tank​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly around coral reefs and rocky areas, where it grazes on sponges and algae. In aquariums, it thrives in tanks with ample rockwork and stable conditions.