Black and White Angel

This black and white angelfish is one of the dark strains of Pterophyllum scalare, carrying heavy black pigment broken by pale silver or white. Depth of colour varies between individuals and shifts with mood, age and lighting, so a fish that looks near-black in the shop tank may lighten considerably at home, or the reverse. It is a cichlid with a community fish's reputation, which is worth knowing before you buy.

Aquarium care

• Tall and laterally flattened. It needs depth of water more than length of tank.
• Reaches a good size, so a shop-sized juvenile is a poor guide to the space required.
• Peaceful in a group while young; territorial and pushy once a pair forms.
• Small tankmates are food. Keep it with fish it cannot fit in its mouth.
• Omnivorous: flake or pellet as a staple, with frozen foods for condition.
• Dark strains show best against a pale substrate and moderate, shaded lighting.
• Sensitive to nitrate build-up; keep up with water changes.

A striking fish for a deep planted tank with calm, medium-sized companions. Best avoided if the tank is short, brightly lit or stocked with small tetras and shrimp.

Stock rotates with each shipment, and livestock is sold for local pickup at our Lethbridge store. See the rest of our angelfish.