Marble Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Cichlidae

📍 Amazon Basin, South America

A captive-bred variety with a swirling black-and-white marbled pattern caused by the marble gene. The pattern is unpredictable and no two fish look alike. One of the most widely kept angelfish morphs, well suited to planted scapes.

Size6"

Min Tank30g

School2+

semi-aggressive

Zonemid

Care Guide

Diet

Marble Angelfish are omnivores that thrive on a varied diet of high-quality cichlid pellets as a staple, supplemented with frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp 2-3 times weekly. Include vegetable matter such as blanched spinach or spirulina-based flakes to support digestive health. Feed small portions once daily, only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes.

Behavior

Marble Angelfish are semi-aggressive, particularly during breeding season when pairs become highly territorial and may harass tank mates. They are mid-water swimmers that prefer tall tanks with vertical space and planted areas for refuge. These fish are curious and intelligent, often recognizing their keeper and displaying distinct personalities.

Breeding

Breeding Marble Angelfish in captivity is moderately difficult but achievable with proper conditioning and tank setup. A bonded pair requires a separate breeding tank (20+ gallons) with tall surfaces like slate or plant leaves for egg-laying, stable water parameters (pH 6.0-6.5, 26-28°C), and excellent filtration. Expect 100-300 eggs per spawn; parents typically guard fry for 7-10 days before they become free-swimming.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Peaceful algae eaters that occupy bottom zone and won't compete with mid-water angels

good

Neon Tetra

Small schooling fish that stay in groups; too small to trigger predatory response in adult angels

good

Cardinal Tetra

Similar water parameter requirements and peaceful temperament; form schools that angels generally ignore

good

Rummy Nose Tetra

Schooling fish with compatible water needs; their group behavior reduces angel aggression

good

Bristlenose Pleco

Nocturnal algae eater that occupies different zones and activity periods than angels

good

Common Diseases

Ich (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis)

Symptoms

White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, flashing against décor, lethargy

Treatment

Raise temperature gradually to 28-30°C, perform daily 25% water changes, use aquarium salt (1 tsp per 5 gallons) or commercial ich treatment; continue for 10-14 days

Fin Rot

Symptoms

Frayed or deteriorating fin edges, discoloration at fin bases, lethargy

Treatment

Improve water quality with frequent water changes, reduce stress by adding plants and hiding spots, treat with antibacterial medication if severe; ensure water parameters remain stable

Hexamita (Hole-in-the-Head Disease)

Symptoms

Pitting or holes in head and lateral line, loss of appetite, white stringy feces

Treatment

Perform large water changes, improve diet with quality foods and vitamin supplements, use metronidazole-based medication; maintain excellent water quality and reduce stress

Bacterial Infection

Symptoms

Cloudy eyes, red streaks on body or fins, swollen abdomen, open sores

Treatment

Isolate affected fish, perform daily water changes, treat with broad-spectrum antibiotic medication; maintain pristine water conditions and remove any uneaten food