Description
Black Marble Angel (Pterophyllum scalare)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare
Common Names: Black Marble Angel, Marble Angelfish, Marble Veil Angel
Family: Cichlidae
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Selectively bred from wild Pterophyllum scalare native to the Amazon River Basin (Peru, Brazil, Colombia) — known for its stunning black-and-silver marbled pattern.
Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches) in body length; 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) tall including fins.
Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Mid to upper levels
🌊 Water Parameters
Temperature: 25 – 29°C (77 – 84°F)
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Hardness: 3 – 10 dGH
TDS: 100 – 250 ppm
🐟 Characteristics
Body Shape: Tall, laterally compressed with long, flowing fins.
Coloration: Dramatic mix of black, silver, and gray marbling across the body and fins; no two fish share the same pattern.
Fins: Veil-like fins that flow elegantly, sometimes showing streaks of black or white.
Behavior: Generally peaceful and calm but may show territorial instincts during spawning.
Unique Feature: Each fish displays a unique marbled pattern, making every specimen one of a kind.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality flakes, pellets, and frozen or live foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Feeding Frequency: Twice daily in moderate amounts.
Tip: Include spirulina-based or color-enhancing foods to maintain sheen and fin health.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 120 liters (30 gallons) for a pair; larger for community setups.
Filtration: Moderate flow; strong biological and mechanical filtration preferred.
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.
Decor: Driftwood, tall plants, and open areas for swimming.
Lighting: Moderate; enhances marble contrast without stressing the fish.
Water Change: 25–30% weekly for optimal water quality.
👥 Social Behavior
Nature: Semi-peaceful; suitable for community tanks with calm species.
Tank Mates: Ideal with Tetras (non-fin-nipping), Gouramis, Corydoras, Mollies, and Rainbowfish.
Avoid: Aggressive or overly active species such as Tiger Barbs or large Cichlids.
Activity: Graceful, slow-moving swimmer that prefers planted aquariums.
✅ Do’s
• Keep in stable warm conditions with clean water.
• Provide vertical decor for comfort and territory.
• Maintain moderate lighting to bring out marble patterns.
❌ Don’ts
• Don’t keep with fin-nippers or aggressive fish.
• Avoid poor water quality — it dulls coloration.
• Don’t overcrowd — needs space to display fins.
⭐ Quick Tip:
The Black Marble Angel is one of the most striking angelfish varieties, known for its elegant black-and-silver marbling and graceful presence. Hardy, adaptable, and peaceful — it makes a perfect centerpiece in any planted or community aquarium.
