Platinum Veil Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

The Platinum Veil Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a striking captive-bred color and fin morph of the classic freshwater angel — solid pearl-white body paired with the elegant long, flowing fins of the veiltail strain. A peaceful-to-semi-aggressive centerpiece fish, it brings vertical presence and graceful movement to any 30+ gallon community. Care level: Intermediate. Pair it with peaceful mid-sized tankmates and a planted scape for the ultimate display. Browse our full freshwater fish collection.

Care Guide

• Tank Size: 30+ gallons (taller tanks preferred for fin display)
• Temperature: 76–82°F
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–10 dGH)
• Diet: Omnivore — quality flake, pellet, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia
• Schooling: Group of 5–6 when young; pairs form as they mature

Specifications

Compatibility

Best paired with peaceful, mid-sized community fish. Avoid fin-nippers (tiger barbs, serpae tetras) and tiny fish that fit in an angel's mouth (neons, ember tetras). Good tankmates include rummynose tetras, larger rasboras, peaceful gouramis, corydoras catfish, and bristlenose plecos.

Recommended Foods & Supplies

• Premium tropical flake & pellet foods
• Live aquarium plants for hiding and breeding cover
• Water conditioner & dechlorinator
• Water test kits for monitoring pH and hardness

FAQ

Will Platinum Veils breed like regular angels? Yes — once paired, they spawn readily on broad leaves or flat surfaces. Fry inherit a mix of platinum and standard genes depending on parent lineage.

Do they need a tall tank? Strongly recommended. Their tall body and trailing veiltail fins look cramped in standard 20-gallon high tanks. Aim for 18"+ height.

Are they hardy? Yes, when water parameters are stable. They're sensitive to ammonia/nitrite spikes — cycle the tank fully before adding.