By Philip A. Purser
It is no mystery that most people get into the saltwater aquarium hobby because of the wide variety of exotic species. Some aquarists are captivated by the graceful, flowing tentacles of anemones, while others find pleasure in the dangerous beauty of lionfishes and moray eels. And for those of us seeking to add a splash of color and pattern to our tank, the possibilities are almost limitless. We could drop in a trio of blue reef damsels (Chromis cyanea), or a few common clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris) would serve just as well.
While these fish are certainly not without their charm, there are those hobbyists who would argue that there is no more attractive or more vibrantly adorned fish available in the saltwater hobby today than one of the dwarf angelfishes. These hardy reef-dwellers have been winning the hearts of hobbyists for decades with their manageable size, endearing dispositions and coats of almost indescribable pattern and color. While their solitary nature and uncompromising demand for high water quality may not allow these fish to thrive in every hobbyist’s tank, they certainly can make a worthwhile addition to the keeper who wishes to spice up his or her aquarium.
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