Leopard Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) – The Spotted Showstopper
For the angelfish enthusiast looking for true visual drama, the Leopard Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) delivers one of the most striking pattern combinations in the hobby. This selectively-bred fancy variant carries the marble gene cluster pushed to its expressive maximum: dense, irregular black spots and inky blotches scattered across a metallic silver-cream base, with patterns differing on every individual specimen. Each fish is unique — no two leopards wear the same markings. Available in both Standard finnage and the elegant Veil trailing-fin variety, across multiple sizes, the Leopard Angelfish is a versatile centerpiece species that anchors any planted community or South American biotope display.
Leopard Angelfish Key Features
Unique Spotted Pattern: Dense, irregular black spots over a metallic silver-cream base — no two specimens carry identical markings, every fish is a one-off.
Selectively Bred Quality: Sourced from premium domestic breeders specializing in stable fancy genetics for vivid, high-contrast pattern expression.
Finnage Options: Available in classic Standard finnage (full, rounded fins) or the dramatic Veil variant (elongated, trailing dorsal and anal fins).
Multiple Size Options: Offered in Small (juvenile, ~1.5" body), Medium (sub-adult, ~2.5"), and Large (adult, ~3.5"+ body) — grow them up or get show-ready stock.
Peaceful Show Species: Calm community demeanor at all sizes; thrives in groups of 4-6+ once established and pairs bond naturally for spawning.
Leopard Angelfish Care Requirements
Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a single Standard adult; 55+ gallons for a small group of 4-6 or for Veil specimens — long fins need vertical clearance and stress-free swimming space.
Water Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C). Stable temperature is more important than the exact value within this range.
pH Range: 6.0–7.5. Soft to moderately hard water; angels adapt to most municipal supplies, but soft, slightly acidic water enhances color intensity and breeding readiness.
Diet: Omnivorous. Feed a varied diet of high-quality angelfish flakes/pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and occasional vegetable matter. Two small feedings per day yield the best growth and color.
Tank Mates: Pair beautifully with mid-water schooling species — Rummynose Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, Lemon Tetras, Pristella Tetras — and bottom-dwelling Corydoras or Bristlenose Plecos. Avoid known fin-nippers (Tiger Barbs, Serpae Tetras), especially when keeping Veil finnage.
Why Choose Our Leopard Angelfish
Quality fancy angelfish demand careful conditioning to develop their full color and pattern potential. At Amazonia Tropical Fish LLC, our Leopard Angelfish undergo a rigorous, multi-week quarantine process. They are prophylactically treated for internal and external parasites and are verified to be eating well before they are ever offered for sale. You are receiving premium, stabilized stock.
Shipping & Live Arrival Guarantee
We safely ship these fancy angelfish nationwide from our US-based facility using specialized, insulated packaging. Every order is fully covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.