Black Veiltail Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) Bred in SA

The Black Veiltail Angelfish is a striking variety of the freshwater angelfish, Pterophyllum scalare, known for its elegant flowing fins and deep black coloration. Its graceful swimming and striking appearance make it a centerpiece in any aquarium. Native to the Amazon River Basin, the species thrives in well-planted, calm-water aquariums and is a favorite among aquarists for its beauty and relatively easy care.

Natural Habitat

In the wild, angelfish are found in slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and swamps of South America. These waters are warm, soft, and slightly acidic, often filled with dense vegetation and submerged roots, offering plenty of cover and breeding areas.

Aquarium Care

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 75 liters for a pair or small group; larger tanks are recommended for adult groups.
• Water Temperature: 24–28°C.
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5.
• Water Hardness: 3–10 dGH (soft to slightly hard water).
• Filtration: Moderate flow with efficient biological filtration.

Aquascaping

• Use fine sand or gravel as a substrate.
• Include tall plants like Vallisneria or Amazon Sword to provide vertical cover.
• Add driftwood or decorative rocks to mimic natural structures.
• Maintain moderate to subdued lighting to create a natural, calm environment.

Tank Mates

• Ideal tank mates are peaceful, similarly-sized fish like gouramis, cardinal tetras, or corydoras.
• Avoid fin-nippers like tiger barbs or overly aggressive species.

Feeding

Black Veiltail Angelfish are omnivores and benefit from a balanced diet:

• Staple Foods: High-quality flakes or cichlid pellets.
• Treats: Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
• Vegetation: Occasional blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods.
  Feed once or twice a day in small portions to prevent overfeeding.

Breeding

Breeding Black Veiltail Angelfish can be a rewarding experience, though it requires specific care:

Setting Up a Breeding Tank

• Use a separate breeding tank of at least 40 liters.
• Maintain a water temperature around 27–28°C.
• Provide smooth, vertical surfaces like slate or broad-leaf plants for egg-laying.

Breeding Behavior

• Pairs form naturally in groups; males and females exhibit courtship behaviors such as cleaning the spawning site.
• The female lays rows of eggs on the prepared surface, which the male fertilizes.
• Remove other fish to prevent egg predation.

Caring for Eggs and Fry

• Eggs hatch in 2–3 days, and the fry become free-swimming in about a week.
• Feed fry freshly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flakes.

Key Notes

• Behavior: Angelfish are semi-aggressive, especially during breeding. Maintain sufficient space to reduce territorial conflicts.
• Water Quality: Perform regular water changes to keep parameters stable.
• Health: Monitor for common diseases like ich or fin rot; maintain a clean tank and a varied diet for vibrant, healthy fish.

The Black Veiltail Angelfish combines elegance with personality, making it a stunning addition to medium to large aquariums. Its low-maintenance care and captivating beauty make it a favorite for both beginner and experienced aquarists.