The veil angelfish, also known as the Pterophyllum scalare, is a popular and striking freshwater fish species that are native to the Amazon River Basin in South America. These fish are often kept in home aquariums due to their beauty, ease of care, and peaceful nature. In this blog post, we’ll explore the veil angelfish in more detail, including their appearance, behavior, care requirements, and more.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | Up to 10 years |
| Temperature | 75-82 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Min size | 55 gallons |
| Max size | Up to 10 inches in length |
| Species | Pterophyllum scalare (Veil Angelfish) |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Scientific Name | Pterophyllum scalare |
| Origin | Amazon River Basin in South America |
| Diet & Nutrition | Omnivore – flake, pellet, frozen or live food, vegetable matter (spirulina or blanched vegetables) |
| Breeding | Egg layers, require separate breeding tank |
| Tank mates | Peaceful species such as tetras, corydoras, and dwarf gouramis; avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species |
| Tank size | Minimum of 55 gallons for a pair |
| Average price | $10 to $20 for juveniles, up to $50 for adults |
Habitat
Veil angelfish are native to the Amazon River Basin in South America, including Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. They inhabit slow-moving rivers, streams, and flooded forests. They prefer areas with dense vegetation, which provides them with shelter and hiding places. The water in their natural habitat is typically soft and acidic, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Appearance
Veil angelfish are a type of angelfish, which are known for their tall, thin bodies and long, flowing fins. The veil angelfish is particularly striking due to its long, trailing fins, which give it a distinctive appearance. These fish are typically silver or bronze in color, with black vertical stripes running down their bodies. Their fins are typically either white or black and can be up to twice the length of their bodies.
In terms of size, veil angelfish can grow to be up to six inches long, although most adult specimens are between three and four inches long.
Behavior
Veil angelfish are generally peaceful fish that get along well with other community fish species. However, they can be aggressive towards their own kind, particularly during the breeding season. It’s generally best to keep veil angelfish in groups of at least five or six, as this can help reduce aggression and keep the fish happier and healthier.
Veil angelfish are also known for their curious and inquisitive nature. They tend to explore their surroundings and can be seen “checking out” new objects or decorations in their aquarium.
Care Requirements
Veil angelfish are relatively easy to care for, but they do have some specific requirements that need to be met. For example, these fish require a larger aquarium than many other freshwater species. A tank size of at least 30 gallons is recommended for a single veil angelfish, although larger groups will require larger tanks.
The water in a veil angelfish tank should be kept at a temperature between 75 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit, with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. These fish also require a moderate to a high level of water flow in their tank, as they come from rivers and streams with strong currents.
Diet
Veil angelfish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods. In the wild, they primarily feed on small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of high-quality fish flakes or pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia.
Breeding
Breeding veil angelfish can be a rewarding but challenging experience. These fish are egg layers and require specific conditions in order to successfully breed. To encourage breeding, it’s important to provide the fish with a suitable breeding environment, including a breeding cone or other spawning surface. The water temperature should also be slightly higher than normal, and the fish should be provided with plenty of high-quality food.
Once the fish have spawned, the eggs will hatch in around 36 hours, and the fry will become free-swimming after around five days. Raising the fry can be difficult, as they require specific water conditions and a carefully controlled diet.
Aquarium requirements
Tank size: Veil angelfish are relatively large fish that require a spacious aquarium. A minimum tank size of 55 gallons is recommended for a pair of veil angelfish.
Temperature: The water temperature should be maintained between 75 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Decor: Veil angelfish prefer an aquarium with plenty of hiding places and vegetation. Plants, driftwood, and rocks can provide hiding places and create a natural environment for the fish.
Lighting: Veil angelfish do not require intense lighting and prefer subdued lighting. A 10-12 hour photoperiod is ideal for veil angelfish.
Filtration: A high-quality filtration system is essential for maintaining water quality in the aquarium. A canister filter or a hang-on-back filter is suitable for a veil angelfish aquarium.
Substrate: The substrate can be sand or gravel, and it should be kept clean to prevent the accumulation of waste.
Feeding: Veil angelfish are omnivores and require a varied diet of flakes, pellets, and frozen or live food. They also enjoy vegetable matter, such as spirulina or blanched vegetables.
FAQ:
What is the difference between standard and veil angelfish?
Standard and veil angelfish are both members of the Pterophyllum scalare species, but they differ in their physical appearance.
Can veil angelfish be kept with other fish?
Yes, veil angelfish are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish species, such as tetras, corydoras, and dwarf gouramis. However, they should not be kept with aggressive or fin-nipping fish species that may damage their delicate fins.
Are veil angelfish hardy?
Veil angelfish are generally considered to be hardy fish, but their hardiness can vary depending on a few different factors, such as water quality and genetic health. It is important to provide them with a suitable environment and proper care to ensure their health and well-being.
In conclusion, the veil angelfish is a beautiful and fascinating fish species that are well-suited for home aquariums. They are generally peaceful and easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced fish keepers. However, it’s important to provide these fish with the specific care and conditions that they require in order to thrive. With the right environment and care, veil angelfish can live for up to 10 years in captivity, bringing joy and beauty to their owners
