Marble Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

The Marble Angelfish is a beautiful and classic variety of freshwater angelfish known for its striking marbled pattern of gold, black, white, and silver coloration. Each fish displays unique markings, giving every specimen its own distinctive appearance.

With its tall body shape and flowing fins, the Marble Angelfish moves gracefully through the aquarium, making it an excellent centerpiece fish for planted aquariums and community tanks.

Although angelfish belong to the cichlid family, they are relatively peaceful compared to many other cichlids, making them suitable for aquariums with compatible tank mates.

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Why Aquarists Love Marble Angelfish

• Beautiful marbled coloration combining gold, black, white, and silver
• Elegant body shape and graceful swimming behavior
• Hardy tank-bred variety well suited for aquariums
• Excellent centerpiece fish for planted aquascapes

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Natural Background

Wild angelfish originate from the slow-moving rivers and flooded forest areas of Northern South America, particularly within the Amazon Basin. These environments contain dense vegetation, submerged roots, and calm waters.

While the Marble Angelfish available in the aquarium hobby today are tank-raised, they still prefer aquariums that mimic these natural conditions with plants, driftwood, and gentle water flow.

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Ideal Aquarium Setup

Marble Angelfish thrive in well-planted aquariums with plenty of vertical swimming space. Their tall body shape makes aquarium height an important factor.

A suitable setup may include:

• Dense aquatic plants for cover
• Driftwood and natural decorations
• Open swimming areas
• Moderate lighting and gentle water movement

They often prefer plant cover rather than caves, making planted aquariums an ideal environment.

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Feeding & Diet

Marble Angelfish are omnivorous and easy to feed. A varied diet will help maintain their health and vibrant coloration.

Recommended foods include:

• High-quality flakes
• Micro pellets
• Frozen bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia or other live foods

Providing a balanced diet with different food sources will promote healthy growth and coloration.

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Tank Mates and Compatibility

Marble Angelfish are generally peaceful and can be kept with non-aggressive community fish of similar size. However, they may become territorial during breeding.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Tetras
• Corydoras catfish
• Peaceful gouramis
• Larger rasboras

Small shrimp and delicate invertebrates are not recommended, as angelfish may view them as food.

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Recommended Tank Parameters

Temperature: 76 – 86°F (24 – 30°C)
pH: 6.0 – 7.4
KH: 0 – 15 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons for a pair (larger tanks recommended for groups)

Due to their tall body shape, taller aquariums are ideal for angelfish.

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Size Information

Average Adult Size:
• Length: up to 6 inches (15 cm)
• Height: up to 8 inches (20 cm)

Typical Sale Size: 1 – 2 inches

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Origin

Most Marble Angelfish available in the aquarium hobby are tank-bred, though the species originates from freshwater habitats in Northern South America.

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Add a touch of elegance and classic beauty to your aquarium with the Marble Angelfish, a stunning and peaceful freshwater angelfish that thrives in planted aquariums and well-planned community tanks.