Black Angelfish 4.5cm

Black Angelfish

The Black Angelfish is a true classic in the aquarium hobby and is one of the most common fish available. Angelfish in general are one of the most recognizable aquarium fish species and is actually a member of the cichlid family. Unlike most cichlids which are recognized as being aggressive species that are not suitable in community aquariums, the angelfish is the stark opposite of this. They make for great centerpiece fish in community aquariums and are very easy to keep. After extensive captive breeding, many colour variations have been created and one of the boldest colour morphs is the black angelfish.

These fish are often a jet black colour with a mild iridescent blue sheen. Some individuals can have a very slight patterning on the fins which just adds a striking layer of depth to this already eye-catching fish. They look amazing in virtually any aquarium setting meaning they will look equally amazing in a bright planted aquarium or a dim bioscope aquarium. These angelfish fall into the scalare species meaning they can get fairly big however they have a very slim profile almost looking like an arrowhead gliding in the aquarium.

Trying to find the males and females in not only the black angel but angelfish, in general, is somewhat difficult when they are small however dominant males will develop a small hump on their head. One can be 100% certain only when a breeding pair is formed. Black angelfish are not found in the wild as they are captive bred and created colour variation however the angelfish, in general, is from South America.

Tank Recommendations for your Black Angelfish 

The Black Angel is a colour variation of the common scalare angelfish species meaning it has the same aquarium needs as any other angelfish variety. At full adult size they reach around 15 cm long and a decent 20 cm tall, because of this they would need to be kept in a tank that is at least 100 liters. Platinum angelfish are not exactly a solitary species and should be kept in mated pairs or shoals. However they will need space as they can be territorial at times, so having a good footprint in the aquarium is always best. A sand or gravel substrate is perfectly fine, but a well-planted aquarium with lots of branching driftwood and rock will be greatly appreciated by these angelfish. This species is most active when lights are turned on during the day

Suitable Tank Buddies

The Black angelfish is fairly peaceful with aggression only ever coming out during breeding males however they may eat very small fish fry and shrimp. With adequate space, these fish will get along with a wide range of community fish. it has however been noted that angelfish can possibly be aggressive against fish species that look similar.

Usually Compatible

Other angelfish, tetras, gouramis, corydoras, angelfish, barbs dwarf cichlids such as rams, and large peaceful cichlids such as Uaru or Severums.

Sometime Compatible

Semi-aggressive or territorial cichlids like fire mouths, convicts cichlids, and similar species.

Rarely Compatible 

large aggressive species such as African cichlids, Oscars, and Jaguar cichlids.

Feeding your Black Angelfish
Angelfish in general are a very easy species to feed that will take to a wide range of aquarium foods like pellets or flakes. They are naturally omnivores that feed off plant matter like algae and small insects and crustaceans so a well-balanced aquarium food that has good protein and green content would be best. Feeding should occur once a day and it is best to do so when the lights are on.