C. Joculator-any experiences?

[Zionas]

My LFS can order these fish, but they cost a fortune. They’re absolutely beautiful and a contender for the Flame Angel when it comes to looks, and they’re not collected in areas where cyanide is used (though still far from China). I made a post on dwarf angels previously, but I came across this one today and I’ve got to say I am tempted. If there’s anyone who has experience with them, please let me know how well they do. Are they hardier than the Flame and Coral Beauty, Pygmies and Half Black Angels?

If I get one of these, I’ll have to think hard about it. A dwarf angel will surely be my last fish added, I want to give my aquarium at least 5 months before I add one. I love C. joculator, but if it dies then I’ll be taking a significant financial loss. Therefore, it needs to be a hardy species.


My tank’s 48”x24”x22” (105 gallons) and here’s my stocking plan so far:

x2 Ocellaris or Black and White Ocellaris (captive bred)

x1 Comet (Indonesia)

x1 Royal Gramma (Caribbean)

x1 Flame (Indonesia / PH most likely) / Coral (from wholesaler in SEA) / Falco (Indonesia / PH most likely)


Is Joculator a good choice for a first angel?

In terms of their behavior, biology and temperament are they more closely related to the pygmy angels or the mid-sized Centropyge?

Any Centropyge I buy will by far be the most cautious and nervous purchase for my tank. I’m especially concerned about their sensitivity and fragility compared to the other species I’ve listed.

 

[ndrwater]

Joculators are indeed a cool fish. They do relatively well in captivity, but be prepared to spend $1500 or more IF you can find one.
The only come from one place that collects only infrequently. Cocos-Keeling isnt someplace that collectors get to often. Couple that with the fact that most major carriers arent even flying international freight right now and I think the likelihood of finding one is slim at best.
Now if you DID want to drop the cash AND if you could find one, I'd do it in a heartbeat. I have been on the hunt for over a year...