Description
Jet Black Angel (Pterophyllum scalare)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare
Common Names: Jet Black Angelfish, Black Angel, Velvet Black Angel
Family: Cichlidae
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Captive-bred morph of Pterophyllum scalare developed from wild Amazon Basin lines (Peru, Brazil, Colombia)
Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches) body length; 25 cm (10 inches) tall with fins
Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Middle 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: Classic tall, triangular body of angelfish with elegant flowing fins.
Coloration: Deep jet-black coloration covering the entire body, fins, and tail, giving a velvety matte or glossy sheen depending on lighting.
Fins: Long and graceful; solid black and semi-transparent near the edges.
Eyes: Red or dark brown, providing subtle contrast against the black body.
Behavior: Peaceful and calm, though territorial during spawning.
Unique Feature: Among the darkest angelfish strains — its solid black pigment gives an ultra-elegant, mysterious look unmatched by any other morph.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality flakes, pellets, frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Feeding Frequency: Twice daily in small portions.
Tip: Feed color-enhancing and protein-rich food to maintain deep, glossy black pigmentation.
🛠️ Tank Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 120 liters (30 gallons) for a pair; 200 liters or more for a community.
Filtration: Gentle flow; stable and efficient filtration system.
Substrate: Light-colored sand or gravel enhances contrast.
Decor: Planted aquariums with tall plants and driftwood for a natural background.
Lighting: Moderate lighting to highlight the black sheen; avoid overly bright light.
Water Change: 25–35% weekly for best coloration and health.
👥 Social Behavior
Nature: Peaceful community fish; mildly territorial during breeding.
Tank Mates: Suitable with peaceful species such as Corydoras, Gouramis, Rainbowfish, and Tetras.
Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
Breeding: Forms pairs; eggs laid on vertical surfaces. Both parents guard the spawn.
✅ Do’s
• Use a light-colored substrate for visual contrast.
• Keep in clean, stable warm water.
• Feed a protein-rich diet for healthy pigmentation.
❌ Don’ts
• Don’t expose to excessive bright light (can dull color).
• Avoid sharp decor that may tear fins.
• Don’t mix with aggressive or fin-nipping species.
⭐ Quick Tip:
The Jet Black Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a symbol of elegance and sophistication in aquariums. Its solid black color and graceful form make it a stunning centerpiece, especially when contrasted against green plants or light substrates. Perfect for aquarists seeking a dramatic and classy display fish

