Description
Golden Marble Angel (Pterophyllum scalare)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare
Common Names: Golden Marble Angel, Gold Marble Angelfish, Marbled Gold Angel
Family: Cichlidae
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Selectively bred from Pterophyllum scalare varieties native to the Amazon River Basin (Peru, Brazil, Colombia) — developed to enhance golden coloration over traditional marbled patterns.
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 and laterally compressed with long, elegant fins.
Coloration: A stunning blend of bright gold and white with irregular black marbling across the body and fins. The gold hue deepens with age and high-quality diet.
Fins: Long, veil-like fins with marbled streaks of gold and black.
Behavior: Generally peaceful; may become mildly territorial during breeding.
Unique Feature: Each fish has a unique marbled pattern — no two individuals look the same.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality flakes or pellets, with supplements of live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Feeding Frequency: Twice daily in small amounts.
Tip: Offer color-enhancing foods rich in carotenoids to intensify the golden hue.
🛠️ Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 120 liters (30 gallons) for a pair; 200+ liters recommended for groups.
Filtration: Gentle water flow; efficient filtration system to maintain clean conditions.
Substrate: Fine sand or rounded gravel.
Decor: Driftwood, tall plants, and open areas for swimming.
Lighting: Moderate to bright; enhances gold and marble contrasts.
Water Change: 25–35% weekly for stable water quality.
👥 Social Behavior
Nature: Peaceful community fish; social and calm with suitable tank mates.
Tank Mates: Compatible with Corydoras, peaceful Barbs, Gouramis, Rainbowfish, and medium-sized Tetras.
Avoid: Fin-nipping fish (like Tiger Barbs) and overly aggressive Cichlids.
Activity: Graceful swimmer; prefers quiet, planted aquariums.
✅ Do’s
• Maintain warm, soft water for best color and health.
• Provide hiding areas with driftwood and plants.
• Keep in small groups or pairs for natural social behavior.
❌ Don’ts
• Avoid aggressive tank mates or strong currents.
• Don’t keep in dirty or unstable water conditions.
• Don’t overcrowd the tank.
⭐ Quick Tip:
The Golden Marble Angel is a showpiece variety of angelfish, featuring a brilliant golden body streaked with black marble patterns. Its reflective coloration, peaceful nature, and graceful movements make it a perfect centerpiece for planted and community aquariums alike.


