August 5

Sarah Robertson

Extraordinary Platinum Angelfish for Your Home Aquarium

Angelfish are peaceful and popular fish that are known for their beautiful, flowing fins. These beautiful fish has been a favorite among aquarium hobbyists for years. They have been bred in a variety of different colors, shapes, and sizes, including the striking Platinum Angelfish.

The Platinum Angelfish is a silver-white fish with a tint of green or blue. They are popular among aquarists because of their unique look. These are moderately sized fish and can reach up to 6 inches in length.

Caring for Platinum Angelfish can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for both beginner and experienced aquarium hobbyists. Read on for tips on keeping Platinum Angelfish healthy and happy.

Platinum Angelfish Quick Care Guide

  • Scientific Name: Pterophyllum sp
  • Common Name: Platinum Angelfish
  • Origin: Amazon and Orinoco River Basins, South America
  • Family: Cichlidae
  • Diet: Omnivore
  • Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
  • Temperature: Between 78° and 84° F
  • PH Range: 6.5 – 6.9
  • Lifespan: 10-15 years
  • Water Type: Hard
  • Breed Type: Egg Layer
  • Care Level: Easy- Moderate
  • Temperament: Semi-aggressive
  • Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
  • Max Size: 6 inches
  • Compatibility: Community Tanks
  • Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner

Platinum Angelfish Size

The Platinum Angelfish is a moderately sized fish and can reach up to 6 inches in length. Many other varieties of Angelfish reach different sizes, so it's important to research and find the right size for your aquarium.

Factors Affecting Platinum Angelfish Size

The size of a Platinum Angelfish can be affected by several factors. These include the amount of space in the aquarium, the type of food they are eating, and how much exercise they are getting. A healthy diet with plenty of fresh vegetables and proteins will allow your fish to reach their full potential size.

Genetics can also affect size. Wild-caught Platinum Angelfish tend to be smaller, while those that have been selectively bred for size can reach a larger size.

Platinum Angelfish Lifespan

The lifespan of a Platinum Angelfish can vary greatly depending on the environment and care they receive. In general, these fish can live up to 10-15 years in captivity if given the proper care.

Good water quality helps to provide your fish with a long and healthy lifespan. Ensure that you are maintaining regular water changes as well as monitoring pH levels, temperature, and other water parameters.

Platinum Angelfish Appearance

The Platinum Angelfish is a stunning fish, with its unique silver-white color and tint of green or blue. They have long fins that add to their beauty and grace. This breed has been selectively bred for color and size making it highly sought after among aquarium hobbyists. Platinum Angelfish, like other varieties of Angelfish, have been bred in a variety of different sizes and shapes.

These fish are diamond-shaped with a round, laterally compressed body. They have triangular dorsal and anal fins, and they can reach 6 inches in length and 8 inches or more in height.

Gender Differences

The gender of Platinum Angelfish can be difficult to determine with the naked eye, and typically requires an experienced aquarist to identify.

  • Males tend to be larger than females. While females are usually rounder in the belly, males are typically more slender
  • Often grows faster than female angelfish
  • Compared to the male fish the female has a more rounded head
  • When males mature, they develop a nose ridge while the female's head will remain round
  • The ventral fins of males have a twisted or frayed appearance.
  • The males have a breeding tube on the underside that is pointed and thin, while females have an ovipositor tube on the underside that is rounded and blunt.

Males show more aggression towards other fish in the tank than females.

Platinum Angelfish

Platinum Angelfish Behaviour

The Platinum Angelfish is a semi-aggressive fish that may become territorial when kept in smaller tanks. They should be kept in larger aquariums of at least 30 gallons and should be kept with other semi-aggressive fish.

These species are known to be shoaling fish and should not be kept alone. They will enjoy having companions of the same size and species for company.

Platinum Angelfish are bottom dwellers and will spend most of their time near the substrate. They do like to explore the tank, however, so they should be given plenty of hiding places and decorations.

Platinum Angelfish should not be kept with smaller fish or invertebrates as they may become aggressive and attack them. They are best kept with other semi-aggressive fish such as cichlids or other medium to large-sized species.

Platinum Angelfish Tank Setup

Setting up a tank for Platinum Angelfish is fairly easy. However, there are many things you need to consider before adding them to your aquarium, including:

Tank Size

Tank size is essential, as Platinum Angelfish need plenty of swimming space. A minimum tank size of 30 gallons should be used for a single fish, but larger tanks are recommended if you plan on keeping multiple fish.

Providing the fish with a larger tank also gives them more areas to hide and explore. This will also help to reduce aggression between fish in the aquarium.

Water Parameters

When setting up a tank for Platinum Angelfish, it's important to maintain good water quality. The pH should be between 6.5 and 6.9, with a temperature between 78°F - 84°F. Water should also be hard and neutral.

The amount of oxygen in the water is also important, as it helps to keep your fish healthy and happy. To ensure adequate oxygen levels, use an air pump and/or a powerhead filter to help aerate the tank. Check the nitrate levels regularly and do water changes on a weekly basis.

Filters

Platinum Angelfish is like clean water, so a filter is essential. Any type of filter will work as long as it meets the needs of your tank size and is able to remove any debris or excess food from the water. Adding filters helps to keep the water clean and reduces the risk of illness in your fish.

Some aquarists also prefer to use a sponge filter or an under-gravel filter to keep the tank clean.

Lighting

Platinum Angelfish do well with moderate lighting, and adding a plant or two to the aquarium can help provide additional shade. A fluorescent light should be used for 12 hours per day and can be on a timer to make it easier to remember. You'll also want to avoid direct sunlight as this can cause algae blooms in your aquarium.

Decorations

Adding decorations to the tank can make your Platinum Angelfish feel more comfortable and give them places to explore. Plants are a great choice, as they provide hiding spots and oxygen to the water. If you plan on keeping live plants, be sure to choose species that are compatible with their environment. Some examples of compatible plants include

  • Java Moss
  • Hornwort
  • Anubias

Artificial plants can also be used and are much easier to maintain. However, clean them regularly to remove any buildup of algae or debris.

Cave decorations such as rocks, driftwood, and hollow logs are also great choices for providing places to hide. Be sure to avoid using anything that can dissolve in the water or become sharp, as these can be hazardous to your fish.

Driftwoods such as Manzanita, Mopani, and Malaysian driftwoods are great choices for providing natural habitats in your tank. They provide hiding spots and help to create a natural environment in your tank.

Finally, adding some substrate such as sand or gravel can help keep the tank looking more natural. Avoid using substrates with sharp edges or particles, as this can hurt your fish. Some recommended substrates for Platinum Angelfish are:

  • Fine sand
  • Aragonite
  • Crushed coral

Tankmates

Platinum Angelfish are peaceful fish, so they can be kept with other peaceful tankmates. Some good options include small schooling fish such as:

  • Danios
  • Tetras
  • Guppies
  • Platys

These fish should be kept in groups of 6 or more to help reduce aggression between them. Larger and more aggressive fish such as Cichlids, Oscars, and Arowanas should not be kept with Platinum Angelfish. Other bad tankmates to avoid are invertebrates such as shrimp or snails, as these can easily become food for the Angelfish.

If you are planning to add them to a community tank, be sure to research all the fish you plan on keeping together to ensure compatibility.

Platinum Angelfish

Platinum Angelfish Feeding

Platinum Angelfish are omnivores and enjoy a variety of foods. They should be fed both plant-based foods and protein sources such as:

Algae wafers are a great source of plant-based nutrition and can be supplemented with other foods. These can be purchased from your local fish store.

Frozen or freeze-dried foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp are also good choices for providing protein. These can be fed a few times per week in small amounts, as too much protein can cause health problems in your Angelfish.

Live foods can also be given occasionally, but make sure they are properly fed before adding them to the tank. Some examples of live foods are:

  • Feeder fish
  • Earthworms
  • Insect larvae
  • Bloodworms
  • Daphnia

Pellets and flakes are also acceptable, but be sure to vary their diet with fresh and frozen foods as well. Read the instructions on the packaging to determine how often and how much you should feed your fish.

Vegetables can also be offered every few days, such as:

  • Spinach
  • Lettuce
  • Cucumbers
  • Zucchini

Be sure to finely chop these up before adding them to the tank. This will make it easier for your fish to consume them and prevent them from becoming water-logged in the tank.

The amount of food you feed your Platinum Angelfish should depend on their size and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to only feed what they can eat within a few minutes, as any excess food can lead to problems with water quality. Be sure to remove any uneaten food after feeding time, as this can cause algae blooms and contaminate the water.

enough to eat. This will help reduce aggression between the different species. Additionally, it's also important to remember that overfeeding is harmful to all fish, so spot clean any excess food from the tank after feeding. This will help keep toxins at bay and maintain a healthy environment for your Platinum Angelfish.

Platinum Angelfish Diseases

Many diseases can infect your angelfish, making it crucial that you understand the symptoms and indicators of these diseases. By taking care of both your fish and their habitat, you create a stronger immunity against illnesses like parasites, bacteria, fungi, and viral infections. A healthy environment and nutritious diet will help build a strong immune system in your angelfish that will protect them from many diseases.

The most common angelfish diseases and parasites, along with the corresponding remedies, are listed below:

Ich

The disease commonly known as Ich or White Spot Disease presents itself as tiny white spots on the fish's body. The leading cause of ich in angelfish is sudden changes in water temperature. Stressful conditions can also trigger ich outbreaks. If you have bad water conditions in your tank, introducing plants or other fish that already carry the protozoa can lead to Ich in your Platinum angelfish. The disease is deadly if left untreated, so it is crucial to start treatment immediately

The following are signs your angelfish have Ich:

  • Appetite loss and swimming that seems uncoordinated or disoriented.
  • Folded fins.
  • White spots on the body
  • If the white spots are located on their gills, it'll be harder for them to breathe.
  • Fish rubbing against objects in their tank trying to remove these spots.
  • List Element

There are several remedies for Ich, including:

  • Adding aquarium salt to the water can disrupt the fluid regulation of Ich
  • By raising the water temperature to 86°F, we can improve their health.
  • Anti-parasitic drugs

To get the most out of your medication, remove the carbon filter from your tank before adding it.

Dropsy

The infection leading to Dropsy in angelfish is caused by a typical bacterium often found in many aquariums. However, if the angelfish's immune system becomes weak, this may result in Dropsy. Fluid build-up inside fish occurs when the infection interferes with kidney function.

Some symptoms of angelfish dropsy are:

  • Lethargy
  • Rapid breathing through the gills
  • Scales sticking out all over the body
  • Loss of appetite
  • A bloated appearance and protruding eyes.

The following are suggested treatments for Dropsy:

Unfortunately, there is no cure for angelfish dropsy. If you detect the disease in its later stages, it will be too late to save any of the angelfish that are infected. If you catch the disease at an early stage, adding antibacterial medication to their food and treating them in a separate tank with Epsom salts (â…› teaspoons per 5-gallon ratio) can help remove some of the excess fluid.

Fin Rot

Platinum Angelfish fin rot is a bacterial infection that commonly appears in freshwater aquariums where water conditions are not stable. It attacks the fins, working its way down to the base.

Fin rot is caused by Flavobacterium columnare, Pseudomonas, or Aeromonas bacteria. All of these bacteria can be found in tanks that aren't properly cleaned.

Some of the common symptoms of Platinum angelfish fin rot are as follows:

  • Fins that appear to be shredded
  • It becomes difficult to swim when the disease is in an advanced stage.
  • If the disease spreads to other areas, it will turn milky white.

Multiple remedies are required to effectively combat this disease. Here are some of the most popular methods:

  • Antibiotic treatment
  • Water condition assessment, tank cleaning, and 20-50% water changes as needed.
  • If a fish is nipping at the fins of other fish, it needs to be removed from the tank. Also, if there are too many fish in the tank, some need to be rehomed.

Unfortunately, once your angelfish fins have been infected and damaged, they will not be able to regenerate. Thus, it is key to follow a treatment plan as closely as possible to prevent the disease from further progressing.

Velvet Disease 

Velvet Disease is an infection caused by the Piscinoodinum parasite. This tiny invader forms a cyst in the natural slime coating of fish, causing it to erupt through the skin.

The signs of velvet disease are:

  • Rapid breathing
  • Loss of appetite
  • Body is coated in gold (sometimes green or brown) cysts;
  • Excess slime production
  • Fins kept at the side
  • Rubbing against objects in the tank
  • Lethargy

Because velvet disease weakens a fish's immune system, the fish may also be susceptible to other infections. Therefore, in addition to symptoms of velvet disease, the fish may also exhibit symptoms associated with other infections.

It is essential to apply remedies as soon as possible when you notice symptoms because the disease is highly contagious and can kill your fish.

The following are treatment options that can help:

  • When you put fish in a hospital tank, make sure to blackout the tank (use a blanket to cover it) for 3 weeks. The temperature should be raised to 82-86° degrees Fahrenheit during this time.
  • Add aquarium salt to the tank (To properly dissolve aquarium salt, add 0.5-1 gallon of warm water to a container for every 2.5 teaspoons of salt you wish to add per gallon of water in your aquarium.)
  • You can add medication to the tank (like formalin, acriflavine, methylene blue, and copper sulfate).

After the Platinum angelfish response to treatment, it can be moved from the hospital tank into the main aquarium.

Platinum Angelfish

Gill Flukes

Gill flukes are a type of parasitic infection that affects the gills and skin of fish, typically as a result of stress and unsanitary tank conditions. These parasites can invade the skin, causing ulcers and infections.

Symptoms of gill flukes include:

  • Red skin
  • The gills on this fish look like they’ve been shredded or chewed.
  • Excessive mucus production
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Scratching against objects

Here are some remedies for gill flukes that you might want to try:

  • The anti-worm medication Praziquantel can be used as a treatment.

Hole-in-the-Head Disease

Hexamita, otherwise known as Hole-in-the-Head disease, is caused by an aquatic parasite that rapidly multiplies under the right conditions. Without treatment, the disease will kill your angelfish.

Symptoms of Hexamita infection are:

  • Loss of color
  • Lesions on the head
  • Loss of appetite
  • White, stringy feces

Here are some effective remedies for angelfish Hexamita:

  • Treating the aquarium with MetroPlex.
  • Infected fish should be quarantined in a hospital tank.
  • Gradually raise water temperatures to 90°F.

Anchor Worms

Although they are named "anchor worms", many people believe that these creatures are in fact small crustaceans. These embed themselves into the scales and flesh of your fish.

  • symptoms associated with anchor worm disease are:
  • Crustaceans burrowing into the flesh of your fish can cause redness, inflammation, and ulcers.
  • Red or white-green worms at the base of your fish's fins
  • Shortness of breath
  • Scratching body against objects
  • List Element

Helpful remedies include:

  • Use aquarium salt to treat your aquarium.
  • Taking a potassium permanganate bath is an effective way to kill anchor worms that haven't yet been embedded.
  • Use Dimilin to kill anchor worm larvae and any un-embedded adult anchor worms in the aquarium.
  • Use tweezers to delicately remove any embedded anchor worms.

In order to prevent future problems, be mindful of what you add to the tank. Both fish and plants can introduce worms into the ecosystem.

Swollen Bellies

There are several other conditions, not just dropsy, that can make an angelfish look bloated or have a puffed-out stomach.

  • Various internal parasites can cause a bloated appearance.
  • When an angelfish female is about to lay her eggs, she will appear as if her belly is swollen.
  • A possible sign of kidney problems in angelfish is a swollen belly, which can be caused by a cyst, infection, or lesions.
  • Because angelfish have narrow bodies, they're prone to constipation caused by improper digestion. To ease indigestion, you can soak dried flakes in castor oil or glycerol, or mash and feed them peeled peas.

Thus, angelfish with bloated stomachs may not be sick (e.g. they might just be getting ready to spawn), but it’s crucial to monitor the situation and see if there are more symptoms of the disease.

A swollen belly on a Platinum angelfish can be cause for concern. If you're unsure of the root problem, always consult a specialist.

Mouth Fungus Disease 

Angelfish mouth fungus is caused by Flavobacterium columnare, a type of bacteria that is commonly found in aquariums. These opportunistic bacteria can enter an angelfish through open wounds and will take up residence in the bodies of fish with weak immune systems.

Common symptoms of angelfish mouth fungus are:

  • Shortness of breath.
  • If you see white, cotton-like threads at the face, gills, or mouth of a fish, this could be a sign of disease.
  • Fins that are tattered and frayed.
  • In advanced cases, sores and lesions may appear
  • Excess mucus being produced on the head and gills.

Some treatments you can try for Platinum angelfish mouth fungus disease are:

  • Antibiotic or antibacterial medication, such as kanamycin and phenoxyethanol (at 100 mg/l of water for 7 days)
  • Adding salt or sodium chloride to the tank can help prevent the disease. For every gallon of water, add 1 ounce of salt.

To keep this disease at bay, ensure optimal water parameters and regularly clean the tank.

Virus Infection 

The angelfish virus infection commonly referred to as "angelfish AIDS," is a severe and rapidly-spreading disease that can kill your fish within a few days of being infected.

It is easy for the disease to spread from fish to fish because it is highly contagious.

The following are symptoms of a potential virus infection:

  • The fins are folded against the body.
  • Excessive slime production
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • The nose appears slightly pointed up.
  • Most fish spend the majority of their time near the bottom of the tank.

Some remedies for this disease include:

  • To treat infected fish, quarantine them in a hospital tank without lights or a filter. Use a UV sterilizer to kill the infection-causing virus.
  • Seachem Para Guard should be used on the fish tank for 3 days, with a 10% water change taking place in between each treatment.
  • Adding Mardel Maracyn to your fish tank can help stave off infection and other diseases.

If your angelfish manages to survive an infection of the angelfish virus, you can move them into an aquarium. However, do not put healthy fish in with them as they may still be carrying the virus for up to 6 months.

Popeye Disease

Popeye disease is an infection that occurs when water conditions change abruptly and causes your fish's eyes to bulge. Although it usually isn't fatal, Popeye Disease can still damage the eye or cause it to pop out.

Symptoms of Popeye disease to look out for in Platinum angelfish are:

  • Eyes that appear cloudy and bulging
  • A ruptured eye that causes permanent vision impairment or blindness.

The most popular treatments for Popeye disease in Platinum angelfish are:

  • This infection can be treated with a 50% water change and salt iodine solution if caught early.
  • Adding methylene blue to the tank can also be helpful in some cases.
  • More severe infections will require antibiotics.

Cotton Wool Disease 

Cotton wool disease in Platinum angelfish is caused by overcrowding, low water temperatures, and poor water conditions. Some of the symptoms you may see include:

  • The fish has a translucent layer on its skin that is expanding.
  • The edges of the body may appear bloody as if blood is oozing through the skin.

Depending on the severity, there are different remedies for cotton wool disease in Platinum angelfish. If your fish is suffering and in an advanced stage of illness, euthanasia might be the best option.

If you identify the disease early, cleaning the tank, changing the water, and rehoming fish in overstocked tanks are all environmental factors you can adjust to improve your aquarium.

After you complete these steps, add marine salt to the tank (4 teaspoons/gallon) and treat the water with potassium permanganate.

Platinum Angelfish

Platinum Angelfish Breading 

Your chances of successfully breeding angelfish go up significantly when you have a willing pair and all other required conditions are met. Some couples can be picky, though, so pay close attention to detail if you want them to breed.

Step 1 - Start by preparing the tank for breeding. This includes increasing the water temperature to 80-84°F, creating vegetation in the tank, and adding a spawning mop or artificial plants for the female to lay her eggs on. The ph of the water should also be 7.0-8.0.

Step 2 - Condition the pair for breeding by providing them with a high-quality diet and plenty of space. This will help to ensure the health of both parents and eggs.

Step 3 - Monitor your fish for signs of readiness to spawn by looking for courtship behavior, such as swimming in circles or chasing each other. This usually happens when the conditions are right and the couple is ready to breed. The sexual maturity of angelfish is between 6 and 12 months old. If you remove the eggs each time they are produced, a pair of angelfish can spawn every 7 to 10 days. To signify that they are ready to spawn, a chosen site will be meticulously cleaned by the pair of angelfish. The female fish deposit a line of eggs afterward.

Step 4 - After the eggs have been laid, the male fish will fertilize them. The eggs will then be guarded by both parents until they hatch 2 to 4 days later.

Step 5 - Once the fry has hatched, it is important to provide them with food and clean water as soon as possible. Small live or frozen foods are ideal for the fry.

Platinum Angelfish Fry Care 

Caring for Platinum Angelfish fry can be a challenging but rewarding process. The fry will require frequent water changes and regular feedings of small live or frozen foods.

When the fry is first born, they will be very small and delicate so make sure to keep an eye on them at all times. It is important to provide them with a safe and secure environment, free of any predators or hazards.

Platinum Angelfish fry is very sensitive to the water they live in. This is especially important in the beginning as they are still developing their immune systems. It is also important to monitor ammonia levels and keep them as low as possible.

It's also essential to provide the fry with a good quality diet. In the wild, Platinum Angelfish fry feed on small invertebrates, such as worms and crustaceans. In captivity, you can provide them with high-quality prepared foods in addition to small live or frozen foods.

You can also supplement your diet with fresh vegetables and fruits, such as cucumber, zucchini, or spinach.

As the fry grows larger and stronger, you can gradually increase the size of their food and provide them with a more varied diet. With proper care and attention, you can successfully raise your own Platinum Angelfish fry!

Frequent Questions 

What genes are used for platinum blue marble angelfish?

Platinum Blue Marble Angelfish is the result of a genetic mutation that causes two genes, blue and marble, to be combined. The blue gene is responsible for the fish's silver-blue body, while the marble gene is responsible for the white stripes and patterns. The combination of these two genes creates the unique look of a Platinum Blue Marble Angelfish.

How big do platinum angelfish get? 

Platinum Angelfish can grow to be up to 8 inches in length, though they typically reach a maximum size of 6-7 inches. They are a slow-growing species and can live up to 10 years with proper care. It is important to provide them with plenty of space in their tank to ensure they can reach their full size.

Are platinum angelfish aggressive?

Platinum Angelfish are often considered to be semi-aggressive. They may become territorial or aggressive towards other fish that come too close to their territory. It is important to provide them with plenty of space and hiding spots in their tank to help reduce the risk of aggression. It is also important to keep an appropriate ratio of males and females so that they can establish their own territories. With proper care and attention, platinum angelfish can be peaceful and enjoyable for aquarium inhabitants.

How to make platinum blue marble angelfish? 

In order to make Platinum Blue Marble Angelfish, you will need a pair of fish that carry both the blue and marble genes. It is important to keep the two genes separate until they can be bred together. Once you have the two fish, you should introduce them to each other in a breeding tank and allow them to mate. The female will then lay eggs which will hatch after 2-4 days and the resulting fry should show the Platinum Blue Marble coloration once they reach maturity. With this method, you can produce your own unique strain of Platinum Blue Marble Angelfish!

Conclusion

Platinum Angelfish is a beautiful and unique species that can make an excellent addition to any freshwater aquarium. They are known for their beautiful platinum silver coloration. They are relatively hardy and easy to care for but do require appropriate water conditions and a varied diet to remain healthy. When kept with other peaceful species, Platinum Angelfish can be great community fish. They have a lifespan of 10 years if you provide them with proper care and can reach sizes of 6 inches. They can be put together with other Angelfish or other peaceful species, as long as there is plenty of room for them to establish their own territories. With proper care and attention, your Platinum Angelfish fry can grow into healthy and beautiful adults.

Sarah Robertson


I am a passionate blogger who also happens to be a fish keeping enthusiast. Writing about my hobby is something that I absolutely love to do, and it's no secret that my chosen topic is always centered around fish keeping.

Sarah Robertson

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