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