Description

Marble Angel (Pterophyllum scalare)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare

• Common Names: Marble Angel, Marbled Angelfish, Standard Marble Angel

• Family: Cichlidae

• Order: Cichliformes

• Origin: Selectively bred from wild Pterophyllum scalare found in the Amazon River Basin (Brazil, Peru, Colombia).

• Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches) body length; 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) tall with 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 elegant triangular fins.

• Coloration: Silvery white base with irregular black marbling spread across the body and fins. Some individuals may show hints of gold or blue sheen under bright lighting.

• Fins: Long, flowing fins with distinctive marbled patterns.

• Behavior: Generally peaceful but can show mild territoriality during spawning.

• Unique Feature: No two Marble Angels have the same pattern — each displays a unique marbled design.

🍽️ Diet

• Type: Omnivorous

• Diet: Quality flakes or pellets, live and frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

• Feeding Frequency: Twice daily, small portions.

• Tip: Color-enhancing food helps highlight the contrast of marble patterns.

🛠️ Tank Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 120 liters (30 gallons) for a pair; 200+ liters for groups.

• Filtration: Moderate water flow with efficient biological filtration.

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel.

• Decor: Driftwood, tall plants, and open swimming space.

• Lighting: Moderate; brings out silver and black contrast beautifully.

• Water Change: 25–35% weekly.

👥 Social Behavior

• Nature: Peaceful and social, suitable for community aquariums.

• Tank Mates: Compatible with Corydoras, Gouramis, Rainbowfish, peaceful Barbs, and medium Tetras.

• Avoid: Aggressive or fin-nipping species like Tiger Barbs.

• Activity: Calm, graceful swimmers that prefer stable, quiet environments.

✅ Do’s
• Maintain stable water temperature.
• Provide tall plants and gentle flow.
• Keep in small peaceful groups.

❌ Don’ts
• Avoid aggressive or nippy fish.
• Don’t expose to sudden temperature changes.
• Avoid overfeeding.

⭐ Quick Tip:
The Marble Angel is one of the most classic and admired angelfish varieties, known for its striking black-and-white marble pattern and elegant swimming style. Its calm temperament and timeless beauty make it a perfect addition to both beginner and advanced aquariums.