The Black Veil Angelfish is a striking variety of freshwater angelfish, popular in aquariums due to its elegant appearance and long, flowing fins. It belongs to the species Pterophyllum scalare, which is native to the Amazon Basin. Here's some key information:
Characteristics:
- Color: Deep black, often with a velvety appearance, giving it its "black" name.
- Fins: The "veil" in its name refers to its elongated, graceful fins, which can appear even more dramatic in darker varieties.
- Size: It can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in body length, with larger fin spans.
- Lifespan: In a well-maintained aquarium, Black Veil Angelfish can live for 10-12 years.
Tank Conditions:
- Water Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C).
- pH Level: 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
- Tank Size: A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended due to their size and the space they need to swim.
- Tank Mates: Black Veil Angelfish are semi-aggressive, so they should be kept with fish that aren't too small (like tetras or guppies) and that won't nip at their fins.