Marble Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

Marble Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) The Marble Angelfish is a classic and highly popular variant of Pterophyllum scalare, known for its bold, irregular patterning and high-contrast coloration. Featuring a striking mix of black, white, and silver marbling, each fish displays a completely unique pattern—no two specimens are ever the same. This unpredictable, flowing pattern gives the Marble Angelfish a dynamic appearance that shifts as it moves through the water. Combined with the iconic angelfish body shape—tall, laterally compressed with long, elegant fins—it remains a staple centerpiece fish in freshwater aquariums. Despite their beauty, Marble Angelfish are still cichlids with semi-aggressive tendencies and natural predatory instincts, particularly toward smaller tank mates. Care & Husbandry Tank Size: A minimum of 29 gallons is suitable for a single angelfish, though 40+ gallons is recommended for pairs or community setups. Taller aquariums are preferred to accommodate their vertical growth and finnage. Diet: Omnivorous and not picky, but thrives on a varied, protein-rich diet: High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes (staple diet) Frozen foods such as bloodworms, mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp Live foods (blackworms, feeder shrimp) for enrichment and conditioning Occasional vegetable-based or spirulina foods for balance Feed 1–2 times daily in moderate portions. Tank Mates: Select tank mates carefully due to their temperament: Compatible: Larger tetras, gouramis, rainbowfish, Corydoras, plecos, and other semi-peaceful species Use Caution: Other angelfish (pairing and territorial behavior may occur), certain barbs depending on temperament Avoid: Small fish (neon tetras, guppies), shrimp, and fin-nipping species (tiger barbs, serpae tetras) Water Parameters: Temperature: 76–82°F pH: 6.0–7.5 Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard Maintain clean, stable water with regular water changes