Zebra Angel 5-6cm (Pterophyllum scalare)

Zebra Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a striking and popular freshwater angelfish variety known for its bold vertical black stripes on a silver or white body. 

Zebra Angelfish Profile

• Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare
• Common Name: Zebra Angelfish
• Origin: Selectively bred from wild P. scalare (Amazon Basin)
• Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) including fins 
• Lifespan: 10–15 years 
• Temperament: Peaceful to semi-aggressive, especially during breeding 

Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a pair; 55+ gallons for groups 
• Water Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: 5–13 dGH
• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand
• Decor: Driftwood, rocks, tall plants (e.g., Amazon swords), and vertical surfaces for spawning 
• Filtration: Moderate flow; external canister filters or sponge filters recommended

Diet

• Type: Omnivorous
• Staple Foods: High-quality flakes or pellets for cichlids
• Live/Frozen Foods: Brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, tubifex 
• Vegetables: Spirulina, peas, spinach
• Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times daily in small portions 

Compatibility

• Good Tankmates:
  • Peaceful tetras (e.g., cardinal, rummy nose)
  • Gouramis
  • Corydoras
  • Peaceful dwarf cichlids
• Avoid:
  • Fin-nippers (e.g., tiger barbs)
  • Very small fish (e.g., neon tetras may be eaten)
  • Aggressive cichlids 

Breeding

• Pairing: Best formed naturally from a juvenile group
• Spawning Surface: Broad leaves, slate, flowerpots
• Egg Care:
  • Parents fan and guard eggs
  • Eggs hatch in 48–72 hours; fry swim freely after 5–7 days 
• Fry Diet: Infusoria, baby brine shrimp, powdered fry food
• Tips:
  • Slightly raise temperature to 80–82°F during breeding
  • Use sponge filters to protect fry
  • Consider separating fry to avoid parental aggression

Maintenance & Health

• Water Changes: 20–30% every 2 weeks
• Common Diseases: Ich, fin rot, bacterial infections
• Prevention: Quarantine new fish, maintain stable water parameters