Blue Leopard Snakeskin Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare sp)

Blue Leopard Snakeskin Angelfish — Pterophyllum scalare sp.

Wild pattern. Cool-toned elegance.

The Blue Leopard Snakeskin Angelfish combines intricate patterning with a cool metallic sheen. A soft silver-to-icy-blue base is layered with dense leopard spotting and fine snakeskin tracery that flows across the body and into the fins. Under proper lighting, the blue tones intensify and the pattern sharpens, giving this angelfish a detailed, almost hand-etched appearance.

Descended from Amazonian bloodlines, angelfish are vertical swimmers built for gliding through submerged wood and plant cover. The Blue Leopard Snakeskin moves calmly and deliberately, hovering before shifting direction with graceful precision. In groups, they create a tall, layered display that adds depth and visual texture to planted or wood-accented aquariums.

Growing to about 6 inches in body length with significantly taller finnage, they remain peaceful for their size while displaying classic cichlid awareness and hierarchy behavior.

Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (75+ gallons recommended for groups)

• Tank Height: Minimum 20 inches tall preferred

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

• Décor: Driftwood, plants, vertical structure

• Flow: Low to moderate

• Lighting: Moderate (enhances blue and leopard contrast)

• Filtration: Strong but gentle flow

Tank Mates

Best with calm, non-aggressive species:

• Tetras

• Corydoras

• Peaceful plecos

• Eartheaters

• Discus (similar water conditions)

Avoid fin-nippers and highly aggressive cichlids.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to medium

• Water Quality: Clean and stable conditions preferred

Diet

Omnivorous:

• Quality flakes or pellets

• Frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms)

• Occasional vegetable-based foods