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Half-Black Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii
Variety of Silver Angelfish · half-black
📍 South America
The Half-Black Angelfish features a silver anterior half and a deep black posterior half, divided at roughly the mid-body line. The sharp two-tone contrast makes it one of the more striking angelfish varieties in the hobby.
Care Guide
Diet
Half-Black Angelfish are omnivorous and should be fed a varied diet of high-quality flake food, micro pellets, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia once daily in small portions. Supplement with vegetable matter like blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods to support overall health and coloration.
Behavior
These are peaceful, graceful fish that prefer to swim slowly through planted areas and are generally non-aggressive toward similarly-sized tankmates. They are somewhat shy and benefit from dense vegetation and hiding spots, becoming more confident in well-established aquariums. Angelfish are curious and will investigate their environment, often hovering near plants and décor.
Breeding
Breeding Half-Black Angelfish in captivity is moderately difficult and requires a dedicated breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water (pH 6.0-6.5) and temperatures around 26-28°C. Pairs are monogamous and will lay eggs on vertical surfaces; parents typically guard eggs and fry, though removing them to a separate rearing tank increases fry survival rates. Fry require infusoria or liquid fry food initially before graduating to micro pellets.
Tank Mates
Similar size, peaceful schooling fish that thrive in warm, planted tanks with comparable water parameters
Small, peaceful schooling fish that won't compete aggressively and prefer similar warm water conditions
Peaceful labyrinth fish of similar size; may occasionally chase but generally compatible in larger tanks
Tiny algae-eating fish that pose no threat and help maintain tank cleanliness without competing for food
May be eaten by angelfish, especially juveniles; only suitable in heavily planted tanks with ample hiding spots
Common Diseases
Ich (White Spot Disease)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, flashing against décor, lethargy
Raise temperature gradually to 28-30°C, perform daily 25% water changes, use aquarium salt (1 tsp per gallon) or commercial ich treatment; treat for 10-14 days
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fin edges, discoloration at fin bases, lethargy
Improve water quality with frequent partial water changes, remove any sharp décor, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure good filtration and stable parameters
Angelfish Virus (AVD)
Deformities, stunted growth, behavioral changes, loss of appetite, dark coloration
No cure exists; prevention through quarantine of new fish and maintaining excellent water quality is essential; affected fish should be isolated or humanely euthanized
Bacterial Infection
Cloudy eyes, open sores, torn fins, lethargy, loss of appetite
Perform large water changes, improve tank conditions, use broad-spectrum antibiotic medication; ensure adequate filtration and avoid overcrowding
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Varieties
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