Smokey Chocolate Veil Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) – Tank Bred

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The Smokey Chocolate Veil Angelfish is an exquisite variant of Pterophyllum scalare, featuring a rich, velvety brown coloration that deepens into a smoky gradient along its body. Its striking veil tail extends gracefully, giving it an elegant, flowing appearance as it moves through the water. This unique angelfish is a standout in any freshwater aquarium, particularly in planted or soft-lit setups that highlight its dramatic hues.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Unique Smokey Brown Tones – A rich chocolate coloration with a soft gradient effect.
• Elegant Veil Fins – Longer, flowing fins add to its graceful movement.
• Active and Intelligent – Recognizes owners and interacts with its environment.
• Perfect for Planted Aquariums – Looks stunning against lush greenery and dark substrates.

Natural Habitat:

Angelfish are native to the slow-moving waters of the Amazon River basin, where they inhabit densely planted areas with submerged roots, driftwood, and gentle water flow. They thrive in soft, slightly acidic water with plenty of shaded areas for security.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Best suited for aquariums with tall and broad-leafed plants like Amazon Sword, Anubias, and Java Fern.
• Hardscape: Smooth driftwood, vertical rock structures, and shaded areas mimic their natural habitat.
• Botanicals: Indian Almond Leaves or Alder Cones help provide tannins for a more naturalistic blackwater effect.

Diet and Feeding:

The Smokey Chocolate Veil Angelfish is omnivorous and thrives on a well-balanced diet, including:
✔ High-quality flakes and protein-rich pellets
✔ Live or frozen treats such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms
✔ Occasional vegetable matter like spirulina or blanched spinach

Providing a varied diet enhances their vibrant coloration and fin development.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

This angelfish is generally peaceful but can display mild territorial behavior, especially during breeding. Best suited for community tanks with other non-aggressive fish. Recommended tank mates include:
✔ Peaceful tetras (Rummynose Tetras, Cardinal Tetras)
✔ Corydoras catfish and plecos
✔ Dwarf cichlids like Apistogramma and Bolivian Rams
✔ Peaceful loaches and rainbowfish

🚫 Avoid housing with aggressive cichlids, fin-nipping species, or very small nano fish.

Shrimp Safe?

Not recommended for shrimp tanks. Angelfish may prey on dwarf shrimp or their fry.

Breeding:

The Smokey Chocolate Veil Angelfish is relatively easy to breed in a well-maintained tank. Pairs form strong bonds and lay eggs on vertical surfaces like broad leaves or slate. The eggs hatch within 48-72 hours, with fry becoming free-swimming shortly after. A separate breeding tank is recommended for optimal success.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 76° - 84° F (24° - 29° C)
• pH: 6.0 - 7.5
• KH: 1 - 5 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a pair, 55+ gallons for a group

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous; requires a balanced mix of proteins and plant matter.
• Social Behavior: Semi-peaceful; best kept in small groups or pairs.
• Origin: Tank-bred; not wild-caught.
• Average Adult Size: 6 inches (15 cm) body height, up to 10 inches (25 cm) fin span.
• Average Purchase Size: 1.5 - 2.5 inches (3.8 - 6.3 cm)

Live Arrival Guarantee:

All Aquatic Arts animals come with a 100% Live Arrival Guarantee, plus free email support to help you care for your new fish!

Bring home the elegant beauty of the Smokey Chocolate Veil Angelfish and let it add a touch of sophistication to your aquarium!