Description

Zebra Angelfish – Pterophyllum scalare

The Zebra Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a striking variety of freshwater angelfish, recognised by its distinctive dark vertical stripes against a shimmering silver body. With its graceful swimming style, tall triangular fins and bold markings, this beautiful South American cichlid makes an impressive centrepiece for a tropical aquarium.

Zebra Angelfish are generally peaceful when provided with sufficient space, although they can become territorial when breeding. They are sociable fish that particularly benefit from larger aquariums where they can establish a natural group hierarchy.

Zebra Angelfish Set Up

Zebra Angelfish require a spacious aquarium with plenty of height to accommodate their impressive fins. A mature aquarium of at least 150 litres is a reasonable starting point for a pair, with considerably more space recommended for groups.

Provide tall plants such as Amazon Swords, pieces of driftwood and open swimming areas. These fish appreciate gentle water movement and subdued lighting, reflecting the slower waterways of their South American ancestors.

A soft sand or smooth gravel substrate completes an attractive and practical aquarium environment.

Zebra Angel Behaviour

Despite belonging to the cichlid family, Zebra Angelfish are not naturally aggressive fish. Much of the territorial behaviour associated with angelfish develops when they are kept in cramped conditions.

In sufficiently spacious aquariums, groups can establish a social hierarchy, with pairs forming naturally as the fish mature.

Breeding pairs may defend their chosen spawning site, particularly when guarding eggs or young. Providing enough space for other fish to move away helps minimise conflict.

Zebra Angelfish Tank Mates

Zebra Angelfish are suitable for peaceful community aquariums containing appropriately sized companions.

Good choices include:

• Larger, peaceful tetras
• Corydoras catfish
• Bristlenose Plecos
• Peaceful dwarf cichlids with compatible requirements
• Other angelfish in sufficiently large aquariums

Avoid very small fish such as Ember Tetras, which may eventually be regarded as food. Fin-nipping species such as Tiger Barbs should also be avoided.

Fast-moving fish that prefer strong currents are generally unsuitable companions.

Zebra Angelfish Feeding

Zebra Angels are omnivores and readily accept a varied diet.

Offer quality tropical flakes or appropriately sized pellets as their staple food, supplemented with:

• Frozen bloodworm
• Frozen brineshrimp
• Mysis shrimp
• Live foods as an occasional treat

A varied diet helps maintain healthy growth, condition and colouration.

Zebra Angelfish Water Parameters

Zebra Angels prefer warm, stable aquarium conditions with good water quality.

They are adaptable to a range of water conditions, although soft to moderately hard water with a slightly acidic to neutral pH is generally preferred.

Regular partial water changes and effective filtration are important, particularly in aquariums containing several adult angelfish.

Zebra Angel Care Level

Zebra Angelfish are relatively straightforward to care for once their adult size and social behaviour are understood.

They are best suited to aquarists who can provide a suitably tall aquarium, compatible tank mates and a stable, mature environment.

With appropriate care, these elegant fish can become long-lived and rewarding inhabitants of a tropical community aquarium.

If you have any questions about keeping the Yellowfin Shiner, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to advise you on best practice.

Why not check out our Instagram for the latest news on our products and livestock!