Melas (Keyhole) Angel
Melas (Keyhole) Angel
**Melas (Keyhole) Angel: A Striking Addition to Your Reef Aquarium**
The Melas (Keyhole) Angel, scientifically known as *Centropyge tibicen*, is a captivating and hardy species that brings both beauty and functionality to your reef aquarium. Recognized for its striking color pattern—a bold black body with a distinctive white "keyhole" marking—this angel fish is a true eye-catcher that adds dynamic contrast to your underwater world.
**Care Level & Requirements**
- **Care Level:** Moderate
- **Temperament:** Semi-aggressive
- **Minimum Tank Size:** 55+ gallons
- **Diet:** Omnivore—requires a varied diet including marine algae, spirulina, and high-quality angelfish preparations
- **Reef Safe:** With Caution
**Compatibility & Habitat**
The Melas Angel is known for its semi-aggressive nature, making it best suited for aquariums with plenty of hiding spots and live rock structures. While generally peaceful, it may show territorial behavior, especially in smaller tanks or overcrowded environments. It can coexist with a wide range of tank mates, including other semi-aggressive species, but caution is advised when introducing it to a reef tank. Though primarily reef safe, it may occasionally nip at soft and stony corals, as well as clam mantles.
**Water Parameters**
- **Temperature:** 72-78°F
- **pH Level:** 8.1-8.4
- **Specific Gravity:** 1.020-1.025
**Why Choose the Melas (Keyhole) Angel?**
The Melas Angel is not only a beautiful addition to your tank but also a species with a manageable care level that suits intermediate hobbyists. Its unique appearance and active nature offer aesthetic appeal and engaging behavior, making it a favorite among marine aquarists. With the right care and environment, this vibrant fish can be a long-lasting and rewarding centerpiece for your aquatic collection.
Elevate your marine setup with the Melas (Keyhole) Angel and enjoy the vibrant energy and elegance it brings to your underwater ecosystem.
Feeding & Diet
Feeding & Diet
An opportunistic omnivore, the Pithos Crab will scavenge detritus, uneaten food, and algae — making it a natural cleanup crew member. Supplement with small meaty foods like mysis shrimp or pellets 2–3x per week if natural food sources are limited.
Care & Water Parameters
Care & Water Parameters
The Pithos Crab thrives in stable, well-maintained reef conditions. Target parameters: temperature 72–78°F, salinity 1.025–1.026 SG, pH 8.1–8.4, and alkalinity 8–12 dKH. A mature, established tank of at least 20 gallons is recommended.
Reef & Tank Compatibility
Reef & Tank Compatibility
Generally considered reef-safe. The Pithos Crab coexists well with most corals and peaceful fish. Use caution with very small invertebrates or slow-moving tankmates. Provide ample rockwork and hiding spots to reduce territorial behavior.
Size & Growth
Size & Growth
Pithos Crabs are typically shipped at 0.5–1.5 inches. They are slow-growing and generally remain small, making them well-suited for nano and mid-size reef systems.
Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
All livestock ships with heat or cold packs as needed and is packaged for safe transit. We stand behind a live arrival guarantee — if your animal arrives DOA, contact us within 2 hours of delivery with a clear photo. See our full DOA policy for claim details.
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