Smokey Marble Clown Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare sp)

Smokey Marble Clown Angelfish — Pterophyllum scalare sp.
Bold pattern, classic angelfish elegance

The Smokey Marble Clown Angelfish combines three iconic traits into one striking display fish. Deep charcoal “smokey” shading blends into swirling marble patterning, while splashes of orange and white create the classic clown contrast. No two are identical — each fish carries its own unique mix of shadow, swirl, and flame-like accents across tall, flowing fins.

Rooted in Amazonian bloodlines, angelfish are built for slow, vertical movement among submerged wood and roots. The Smokey Marble Clown glides calmly through the water column, hovering before pivoting and drifting forward with graceful precision. When kept in small groups, they create a layered display that adds depth and movement to planted or wood-heavy aquariums.

Growing to about 6 inches in body length with significantly taller finnage, they remain peaceful for their size but still carry true cichlid intelligence 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 structures

• Flow: Low to moderate

• Lighting: Moderate to enhance color contrast

Tank Mates

Best with calm, non-aggressive species:

• Tetras

• Corydoras

• Peaceful plecos

• Eartheaters

• Discus (similar water requirements)

Avoid fin-nippers and overly aggressive cichlids.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to medium

• Filtration: Strong but gentle flow

• Water Quality: Stable and clean

Diet

Omnivorous:

• Quality flakes or pellets

• Frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms)

• Occasional vegetable matter