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.