Black Angelfish

Black Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

The Black Angelfish is a striking color variety of the popular freshwater angelfish, featuring a deep, velvety black body and long, graceful fins. Known for their elegance and calm demeanor, Black Angelfish bring dramatic contrast and movement to planted and community aquariums.

This variety is a selectively bred form of Pterophyllum scalare, native to the slow-moving waters of the Amazon Basin. They grow to around 15–20 cm tall (including fins) and prefer tall tanks with gentle filtration, warm water between 25–29 °C, and a pH range of 6.5–7.5.

Black Angelfish are generally peaceful, especially when kept in groups of 4 or more. However, they may become territorial when breeding. Provide vertical structures like driftwood, tall plants, and open swimming space to help them feel secure.

Feed a varied diet of high-quality flakes, sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, and brine shrimp for optimal health and colour. They pair well with peaceful tankmates such as tetras, corydoras, rainbowfish, and other similarly sized community fish.