Blue Zebra Snakeskin Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare sp)

Blue Zebra Snakeskin Angelfish — Pterophyllum scalare sp.

Electric lines with vertical elegance

The Blue Zebra Snakeskin Angelfish blends bold striping with intricate maze-like patterning for a truly eye-catching display fish. A cool silver-to-ice-blue base is layered with sharp zebra barring and fine snakeskin tracery across the body and fins. Under proper lighting, the blue tones intensify and the pattern becomes more defined, giving the fish a crisp, high-contrast look that stands out in planted or dark wood aquariums.

Rooted in Amazonian bloodlines, angelfish are vertical swimmers built to glide through submerged branches and roots. The Blue Zebra Snakeskin moves calmly and deliberately, hovering before pivoting with graceful precision. When kept in groups, they create a layered, tall-bodied display that adds depth and movement to the entire tank.

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

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 zebra contrast)

• Filtration: Strong but gentle flow

Tank Mates

Best with calm, non-aggressive species:

• Tetras

• Corydoras

• Peaceful plecos

• Eartheaters

• Discus (similar water requirements)

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