Angel-Veiltail Large

Veiltail Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare – Veil variety)

• Scientific name: Pterophyllum scalare

• Common name: Veiltail Angelfish

• Family: Cichlidae

• Origin: Amazon River Basin (South America); veil trait developed through selective breeding in captivity

• Type: Freshwater, tropical fish

🔹 Appearance

• Tall, laterally compressed (disc-shaped) body

• Long, flowing dorsal, anal, and caudal (tail) fins — main “veil” feature

• Body length: ~ 10–15 cm (4–6 in)

• Total height (with fins): up to 20–25 cm (8–10 in)

• Can appear in many colour morphs — silver, black, marble, koi, platinum, Paraiba, etc.

• Graceful, slow-moving swimmer

🔹 Temperament & Behaviour

• Generally peaceful, but territorial when breeding

• Best kept in small groups when young; form pairs as adults

• Avoid fin-nipping species (e.g. tiger barbs, serpae tetras)

• Compatible with peaceful community fish like tetras, gouramis, corydoras, and dwarf plecos

🔹 Tank Requirements

• Minimum tank size: 30 gallons (115 L) for a pair; taller tanks preferred

• Temperature: 25–29 °C (77–84 °F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Water hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Aquascape:

  • Tall plants and driftwood for cover

  • Gentle water flow to protect fins

  • Dim or soft lighting enhances colours

🔹 Diet

• Omnivore — eats flakes, pellets, live or frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia)

• Offer a varied diet to promote colour and fin health

• Slow eater; ensure food isn’t stolen by faster fish

🔹 Breeding

• Monogamous pairs form naturally

• Lay eggs on flat surfaces (plant leaves, rocks, or slate)

• Both parents usually guard eggs and fry

• Veil trait is genetically dominant (V gene) — can be passed to offspring

🔹 Care Notes

• Long fins are delicate — avoid sharp decorations

• Sensitive to poor water quality — keep water clean and stable

• Slow swimmer; avoid strong currents

• Lifespan: typically 10–15 years with good care

✨ Key Features

• Elegant, elongated fins

• Calm, majestic swimming behaviour

• Wide range of colour varieties

• Symbol of grace in freshwater aquariums