Platinum Veiltail Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

The Platinum Veiltail Angelfish is a breathtaking freshwater angelfish variety known for its brilliant platinum-white body and long flowing veil fins. Under aquarium lighting, its metallic coloration creates a shimmering effect that makes it a true centerpiece fish.

This selectively bred variety of Pterophyllum scalare combines elegant appearance with a calm temperament. Tank-bred specimens are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for planted aquariums and peaceful community tanks.

With their graceful movements and extended veil fins, Platinum Veiltail Angelfish bring a sense of motion and elegance to any aquascape.

Why Aquarists Love Platinum Veiltail Angelfish

• Stunning platinum-white coloration that shines under aquarium lighting
• Long, flowing veil fins that add elegance and movement
• Generally peaceful temperament for community aquariums
• Hardy tank-bred variety that adapts well to aquarium conditions

Natural Background

Wild angelfish originate from the slow-moving rivers and floodplains of the Amazon Basin in South America. These environments are typically warm, soft, and rich in aquatic vegetation.

Although the Platinum Veiltail Angelfish is a tank-bred ornamental strain, it still thrives in aquariums that replicate this natural environment with plants, driftwood, and calm water flow.

Ideal Aquarium Setup

Platinum Veiltail Angelfish do best in aquariums that provide vertical swimming space and planted cover. Because of their tall body and long fins, tanks with greater height are ideal.

Recommended aquascape elements include:

Plants

• Amazon Sword

• Vallisneria

• Java Fern

• Other tall or broad-leaf aquatic plants

Hardscape

• Driftwood branches

• Smooth river stones

• Vertical decorations

Botanicals

• Indian Almond Leaves

• Catappa Bark for natural tannins and a more natural environment

Diet and Feeding

Platinum Veiltail Angelfish are omnivores and accept a wide variety of aquarium foods.

A balanced diet may include:

• High-quality flakes or pellets
• Frozen bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia
• Occasional live foods

Providing a varied diet helps maintain strong health, vibrant coloration, and proper fin development.

Tank Mates and Compatibility

These angelfish are generally peaceful but should be kept with non-aggressive tank mates of similar size.

Suitable companions include:

• Peaceful tetra species
• Corydoras catfish
• Peaceful gouramis
• Larger rasboras

Avoid fin-nipping fish such as barbs, which may damage their long veil fins.

Shrimp Compatibility

Platinum Veiltail Angelfish are not considered fully shrimp-safe. While adult shrimp may coexist in some cases, small shrimp and shrimp fry may be eaten.

Providing dense plants and hiding areas may help reduce risk if shrimp are kept in the same aquarium.

Breeding Information

Angelfish are egg-laying fish that form monogamous breeding pairs. When ready to spawn, they typically deposit eggs on flat vertical surfaces such as:

• Broad plant leaves
• Aquarium glass
• Decorations

With stable water conditions and a compatible pair, breeding can occur successfully in home aquariums.

Recommended Tank Parameters

Temperature: 75 – 82°F (23.8 – 27.7°C)
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
KH: 3 – 8 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for a pair, 30+ gallons for groups

Size Information

Average Adult Size:
• Body length: 5 – 6 inches (12.7 – 15.2 cm)
• Fins may extend longer due to the veil variety

Typical Sale Size: 1 – 2 inches

Origin

Most Platinum Veiltail Angelfish available in the aquarium trade are tank-bred by specialized breeders, making them well adapted to aquarium environments.

Add elegance and shimmering beauty to your aquarium with the Platinum Veiltail Angelfish, a graceful and eye-catching centerpiece fish perfect for planted aquariums and peaceful freshwater communities.