Platinum Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
Description
The Platinum Angelfish is a beautiful and highly sought-after variety of the well-known freshwater species Pterophyllum scalare, or the angelfish. Known for its striking appearance, the Platinum Angelfish has a shimmering, almost metallic silvery-white body, which gives it a “platinum” look, hence the name. Its body shape is characteristic of angelfish, with a flat, triangular body and long, flowing fins. The platinum coloration is usually free from any obvious markings or stripes, giving the fish a clean and elegant look. Sometimes, a faint hint of blue or silver can be seen under the light, adding to its beauty.
Habitat Origin
The Platinum Angelfish is a selectively bred variety of the wild Pterophyllum scalare, which is native to the Amazon Basin in South America. In their natural environment, angelfish are typically found in slow-moving, heavily vegetated waters, such as rivers and floodplains. They prefer warm, slightly acidic to neutral waters with plenty of hiding spots, such as plants, rocks, and driftwood, where they can establish territories and find food.
Aquarium
Ideal Number in Aquarium: At least 2-3 individuals, as angelfish are social and thrive in small groups. However, if housing multiple males, more space is required to avoid territorial conflicts.
Favorite Food
Platinum Angelfish are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. They can be fed high-quality flake food, pellets, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, bloodworms, and grindal worms. Supplementing their diet with vegetable matter such as spirulina, blanched zucchini, and spinach will provide the necessary nutrients to maintain their health and vibrancy. A balanced diet ensures they grow healthy and maintain their beautiful coloration.
Behavior:
Platinum Angelfish are peaceful, elegant fish that typically spend their time swimming slowly through the tank. They are calm and graceful, making them an attractive addition to any aquarium. They do, however, exhibit territorial behavior, especially when breeding. Males will often become more assertive during mating periods and may defend their area from other fish. Angelfish are known for their unique behavior, including pairing off during breeding, where they may lay eggs on broad, flat surfaces like leaves or rocks.
Special Care:
While Platinum Angelfish are relatively easy to care for, they require stable water conditions. They thrive in tanks with regular water changes and good filtration. Since they are slow-moving fish, it is important to ensure that the tank provides ample space for swimming and hiding. A soft substrate, plenty of plants, and decorations like driftwood will mimic their natural habitat and make them feel secure. Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive or fast-swimming fish, as they may become stressed.
Compatibility with Other Fish:
Platinum Angelfish are compatible with a variety of peaceful, medium-sized fish. Suitable tankmates include tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and small catfish like Corydoras. They should not be housed with overly aggressive species or small, fin-nipping fish like barbs or some species of tetras. It is also important to avoid keeping them with overly aggressive cichlids that may harass them. When kept in community tanks, ensure there is enough space for each fish to establish a territory and avoid stress.
Breeding Setup
A separate breeding tank is strongly recommended when breeding Platinum Angelfish, as these fish are territorial and easily stressed during spawning. A tank of 100–150 liters (25–40 gallons) is suitable, offering enough room for the pair and future fry. Maintain water parameters at a pH of 6.5–7.5, temperature of 26–30°C, and hardness of 4–12 dGH. Use a gentle sponge or low-flow internal filter to avoid disturbing the delicate eggs. Provide fine gravel or sand substrate and include broad-leafed plants like Amazon Swords or smooth surfaces such as rocks or tank glass where females can lay eggs. Lighting should be moderate with a 10–12 hour cycle, complemented by some shaded spots to help reduce stress.
Conditioning for Breeding
To prepare Platinum Angelfish for breeding, offer a high-protein, varied diet that includes live or frozen brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and quality angelfish pellets. A rich diet helps females produce healthy eggs and stimulates the males’ courtship behavior. Perform partial water changes (20–30%) regularly and consider raising the water temperature slightly to 28°C to mimic natural cues that encourage spawning.
Spawning Process
Once the pair has bonded and water conditions are stable, spawning usually follows quickly. The female lays 100–500 eggs in organized rows on a vertical or smooth surface, such as a plant leaf or tank wall. The male fertilizes the eggs immediately. Platinum Angelfish typically show strong parental care—both male and female stay near the eggs, fanning them with their fins to prevent fungus and keep them oxygenated. No separation is needed unless other fish are present and pose a threat to the eggs.
Fry Care
Eggs will hatch within 2–4 days, depending on temperature. After another 2–3 days, the fry absorb their yolk sacs and become free-swimming. Start feeding them with infusoria or liquid fry food, then transition to newly hatched brine shrimp or finely crushed flake food after the first week. Maintain excellent water quality with frequent small water changes (10–15% every 2–3 days). Use a sponge filter to ensure gentle filtration, and keep the temperature stable between 26–30°C with minimal current in the tank.
Breeding Age, Sexing, & Stress Management
Platinum Angelfish typically reach breeding age around 12 months, although some may breed earlier under optimal conditions. Males tend to be more colorful and slender, with pointed dorsal and anal fins, while females are generally rounder and may swell when gravid. To prevent stress, avoid overcrowding, maintain stable water parameters, and remove any aggressive tankmates. A calm, secure environment is key to a successful spawning and fry-rearing experience.