Angelfish - Blue Marble - Select Size

Your Price: $12.99

Part Number: 665-2

Availability: In Stock.

You need to be a registered customer to order this product. Please Login to your account or click here to Register.

Introduction:

The Blue Marble Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a beautiful and highly sought-after variety of angelfish known for its striking combination of blue hues and marbled patterns. Its unique appearance makes it a popular choice for aquarists seeking a vibrant centerpiece for their freshwater tanks. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about caring for Blue Marble Angelfish, including their tank setup, diet, and ideal tank mates.

1. Natural Habitat and Behavior of Blue Marble Angelfish

Natural Habitat: While the Blue Marble Angelfish is a selectively bred variety, its wild ancestors (Pterophyllum scalare) are native to the slow-moving waters of the Amazon River Basin. These fish naturally inhabit areas with dense vegetation, calm water flow, and slightly acidic conditions.
Behavior in Captivity: In an aquarium, Blue Marble Angelfish are known for their peaceful yet slightly territorial nature. They are graceful swimmers and can become the focal point of any community tank. However, during breeding, they may display increased aggression toward other fish. They are best kept in small groups or pairs, and they enjoy swimming vertically through tall aquariums.

2. Ideal Tank Setup for Blue Marble Angelfish

Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a pair of Blue Marble Angelfish, but a 50-gallon or larger tank is preferable if keeping a group. Due to their tall bodies, these angelfish do best in tanks that are vertically spacious.
Substrate and Décor: Use a soft, sandy substrate to mimic their natural environment. Include driftwood, rocks, and live plants like Amazon swords and Anubias to provide shelter and security. Blue Marble Angelfish appreciate having places to hide, but they also need open areas for free swimming.
Water Conditions: Blue Marble Angelfish thrive in water temperatures between 76°F and 82°F, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Soft to moderately hard water is ideal. Maintaining consistent water parameters through regular water changes and efficient filtration is crucial for their well-being.
Lighting: Moderate lighting is sufficient for Blue Marble Angelfish. Bright lighting can cause stress, so consider adding floating plants or tall plants that provide shaded areas where the fish can retreat.

3. Diet and Feeding for Blue Marble Angelfish

Omnivorous Diet: Blue Marble Angelfish are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet. Their diet should consist of both high-quality pellets or flakes, as well as live or frozen foods for additional protein.
Supplemental Foods: Offer live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to meet their protein needs. Vegetables like blanched spinach or peas can also be given occasionally to support their overall health.
Feeding Schedule: Feed your Blue Marble Angelfish once or twice a day, providing only as much food as they can consume in a few minutes. Be cautious not to overfeed, as excess food can pollute the tank and harm water quality.

4. Compatibility with Other Tank Inhabitants

Suitable Tank Mates: Blue Marble Angelfish are generally peaceful and can be housed with a variety of tank mates, including larger tetras, peaceful barbs, rasboras, gouramis, and bottom dwellers like corydoras or plecos. Ensure tank mates are similarly sized to avoid any predation risks.
Incompatible Species: Avoid keeping Blue Marble Angelfish with fin-nipping species such as tiger barbs, as their long fins can become targets. Additionally, overly aggressive fish or very small fish, like neon tetras, are not ideal companions.
Group Considerations: If keeping a group of Blue Marble Angelfish, ensure the tank is large enough (50 gallons or more) to reduce territorial disputes. Monitor them for signs of aggression, particularly during breeding periods.

5. Common Challenges and Tips for Keeping Blue Marble Angelfish

Fin Damage: Due to their long, delicate fins, Blue Marble Angelfish are susceptible to fin damage from aggressive tank mates or sharp décor. Ensure tank decorations are smooth and avoid placing them with fin-nipping species.
Territorial Behavior: During breeding, Blue Marble Angelfish may become territorial and more aggressive. Providing enough space and hiding spots can help reduce conflicts within the tank.
Maintaining Water Quality: Regular water changes (about 20-30% weekly) and a strong filtration system are crucial to maintaining clean, healthy water. Stable water parameters are essential to prevent stress and disease in these sensitive fish.

Conclusion:

The Blue Marble Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a stunning and graceful addition to any freshwater aquarium. Its vibrant blue coloring and unique marbled patterns make it a captivating centerpiece for any aquascape. With the right care, including a properly maintained tank, a balanced diet, and suitable tank mates, these angelfish can thrive and bring joy to your aquarium for years to come. Whether you’re a novice or experienced aquarist, the Blue Marble Angelfish is sure to enhance your tank with its beauty and elegance.

12.99 points will be rewarded to you when you buy this item.