Silver Veil Angelfish- Pterophyllum scalare - Medium

Your Price: $29.99

Part Number: 665-2-2

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Introduction:

The Silver Veil Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a stunning freshwater fish known for its long, flowing fins and beautiful silver sheen. The "veil" variety refers to the extended fin length, which gives this angelfish a graceful, elegant appearance in the aquarium. This species is popular among aquarists for its peaceful nature and striking visual appeal. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about caring for Silver Veil Angelfish, from their natural habitat and ideal tank setup to feeding, compatibility, and common challenges.

1. Natural Habitat and Behavior of Silver Veil Angelfish

Natural Habitat: The Silver Veil Angelfish is a selectively bred variant of Pterophyllum scalare. Its wild ancestors come from the slow-moving, warm waters of the Amazon River Basin, where the water is soft and slightly acidic. In these areas, angelfish are typically found in densely vegetated regions with minimal water flow.
Behavior in Captivity: Silver Veil Angelfish are peaceful fish, but like other angelfish, they can become territorial, especially during breeding. They are generally calm, slow swimmers, and their long fins add an elegant touch to any aquarium. While they are peaceful in community tanks, they may show aggression toward smaller tank mates or during territorial disputes.

2. Ideal Tank Setup for Silver Veil Angelfish

Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for a pair of Silver Veil Angelfish. However, larger tanks (50 gallons or more) are ideal if you plan to keep them in groups or with other species. Due to their long fins, a taller tank is better suited for them.
Substrate and Décor: A soft sandy substrate mimics their natural environment, and you can add driftwood, smooth rocks, and live plants to provide hiding places and establish territories. Silver Veil Angelfish enjoy heavily planted tanks, but ensure there is also plenty of open space for swimming.
Water Conditions: Silver Veil Angelfish prefer temperatures between 76°F and 82°F, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Soft to moderately hard water works best. Regular water changes and good filtration are crucial, as angelfish are sensitive to fluctuations in water quality.
Lighting: Moderate lighting is best for Silver Veil Angelfish. Bright lighting can cause stress, so it’s advisable to create shaded areas in the tank using tall plants or floating vegetation.

3. Diet and Feeding for Silver Veil Angelfish

Omnivorous Diet: Silver Veil Angelfish are omnivores and thrive on a varied diet. Providing a balanced mixture of protein and plant-based foods will enhance their health and fin development.
Supplemental Foods: Feed them high-quality flakes or pellets as their main diet, and supplement with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia to promote color vibrancy and overall health. Vegetables like blanched zucchini or spirulina-based foods can be offered occasionally for a well-rounded diet.
Feeding Schedule: Feed your Silver Veil Angelfish once or twice daily, offering only as much food as they can consume in a few minutes. Avoid overfeeding to maintain optimal water quality.

4. Compatibility with Other Tank Inhabitants

Suitable Tank Mates: Silver Veil Angelfish do well with a variety of peaceful, non-aggressive tank mates. Good companions include tetras (avoid small species like neon tetras), gouramis, corydoras, and plecos. Other species with similar temperament, such as peaceful dwarf cichlids, are also suitable.
Incompatible Species: Avoid housing Silver Veil Angelfish with fin-nippers like tiger barbs or aggressive fish such as large cichlids. Due to their long fins, they can be targets of nipping or bullying. Additionally, small fish may be viewed as prey, so choose tank mates wisely.
Group Considerations: If you plan to keep multiple Silver Veil Angelfish, aim for groups of five or more to spread out any aggression. However, always monitor for territorial behavior, especially during breeding.

5. Common Challenges and Tips for Keeping Silver Veil Angelfish

Fin Care: The long fins of Silver Veil Angelfish are prone to damage from aggressive tank mates or rough décor. Ensure that any decorations are smooth and free of sharp edges, and be cautious when introducing new species into the tank.
Territorial Behavior: While Silver Veil Angelfish are generally peaceful, they can become territorial, particularly during breeding. If aggression becomes an issue, providing additional hiding spaces or upgrading to a larger tank may help reduce stress.
Water Quality: Clean, stable water conditions are essential for Silver Veil Angelfish. Perform regular water changes (20-30% weekly) and maintain efficient filtration to prevent issues like fin rot or bacterial infections, which are more likely to affect fish with delicate, long fins.

Conclusion:

The Silver Veil Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a beautiful and graceful addition to any freshwater aquarium. With their flowing fins and shimmering silver coloration, they are a favorite among aquarists seeking an elegant centerpiece fish. By providing a properly sized tank, stable water conditions, and a varied diet, you can enjoy the presence of these stunning fish in your aquarium for years to come. Their peaceful nature and captivating appearance make them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists alike.

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