Multibarred Angelfish

Multibarred Angelfish: Expert-Level Care

The Multibarred Angelfish (Paracentropyge multifasciata), also known as the Many-Banded Angelfish or Barred Angelfish, is a strikingly patterned but demanding dwarf angelfish species. It is characterized by its white or pale yellow body crossed with 8 to 9 bold, vertical black bands, a yellow snout and belly, and usually a blue eyespot (ocellus) on the dorsal fin of juveniles.

This species originates from the steep outer reef slopes of the Indo-Pacific, typically inhabiting deep caves and crevices between 60 to over 200 feet. Because of its deepwater origin and specialized dietary needs—particularly its reliance on sponges—the Multibar Angel is generally only recommended for advanced or expert aquarists with very stable, mature reef systems.

In the aquarium, the Multibar Angel is shy and secretive initially, requiring abundant hiding places to feel secure. While generally peaceful towards most tankmates, it requires careful monitoring in a reef environment due to its diet.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Care Level: Expert / Advanced. This fish is sensitive to stress and water quality fluctuations and can be notoriously difficult to acclimate and feed, especially if wild-caught. Captive-bred specimens are strongly preferred as they are pre-conditioned to prepared foods.
• Diet: The Multibar Angel is an Omnivore that feeds heavily on sponges, algae, and small benthic organisms in the wild. Its aquarium diet must be diverse and include high-quality marine algae, spirulina, and various meaty frozen foods (mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp). Angelfish formulas containing sponge material are highly beneficial for long-term health.
• Feeding: Feed 2–3 times daily. Using a feeding clip or smearing food on rocks (like Masstick) encourages its natural grazing behavior and may help finicky eaters.
• Minimum Tank Size: A minimum of 70–90 gallons is required. The tank must be well-established (6+ months old) with plenty of live rock to support grazing.
• Reef Compatibility: It is rated Reef Safe With Caution. It may occasionally nip at clam mantles (Tridacnid clams), sponges, and the polyps of certain Large Polyp Stony (LPS) corals and soft corals. A well-fed Multibar Angel is less likely to engage in destructive nipping.
• Temperament: It is Semi-Aggressive / Territorial. It is peaceful to most large, non-aggressive fish but will become territorial toward other dwarf angelfish, particularly those in the same genus. It is best kept as the sole dwarf angelfish in the tank.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Paracentropyge multifasciata
• Primary Common Name: Multibarred Angelfish
• Other Common Names: Many-Banded Angelfish, Barred Angelfish
• Origin: Indo-Pacific (Deepwater slopes)
• Max Size: 4.5-5 inches (11-12 cm)
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive / Territorial (Shy)
• Diet: Omnivore (Requires sponge and algae content)
• Minimum Tank Size: 70-90+ Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: With Caution (May nip at LPS/clams)