Angel Midnight (Centropyge Nox)

Midnight Angelfish (Centropyge nox)

The Midnight Angelfish is a sophisticated and understated member of the dwarf angelfish family. While many of its relatives rely on vibrant reds or yellows, the Midnight Angelfish is defined by its deep, uniform velvet-black coloration. This monochromatic look gives it a sleek, shadow-like presence in the aquarium, allowing it to stand out against bright corals and colorful rockwork.

Key Information

• Common Name: Midnight Angelfish, Nox Angel

• Scientific Name: Centropyge nox

• Origin: Western Pacific (Indonesia to the Great Barrier Reef)

• Max Size: 10 cm

• Lifespan: 10–15 years

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; territorial with other dwarf angels

• Diet: Omnivore – marine algae, spirulina, mysis shrimp, and high-quality frozen herbivore preparations

• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

Water Parameters

Temperature: 22–27°C

pH: 8.1–8.4

Specific Gravity: 1.020–1.025

Minimum Tank Size: 115L+

Behaviour & Tank Compatibility

The Midnight Angelfish is an active grazer that spends its time weaving through live rock to find algae and detritus. While it is generally peaceful toward unrelated tank mates, it can be quite territorial toward other dwarf angelfish or fish with similar shapes and dark colors. It is "reef safe with caution," as it may occasionally nip at large polyp stony (LPS) corals, soft corals, or clam mantles if it is underfed or bored.

Ideal Tank Setup

• Extensive live rock formations with plenty of caves, tunnels, and overhangs to simulate its natural reef habitat

• An established aquarium with natural algae growth to support its constant grazing behavior

• Open swimming space combined with vertical rock structures to allow for exploration and boundary setting

• Stable water conditions and high-quality filtration to maintain its deep, velvet-like health

Why Choose the Midnight Angelfish?

The Midnight Angelfish is for the aquarist who appreciates minimalism and contrast. Its solid black silhouette provides a perfect "anchor" for a tank filled with brightly colored fish and corals, making everything else appear more vivid. It is a hardy and resilient species that brings a sense of mystery and elegance to both fish-only and carefully monitored reef systems.