Legend Paraiba Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare “Legend Paraiba”) – Tank Bred

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The Legend Paraiba Angelfish is a striking tank-bred variety of Pterophyllum scalare, admired for its metallic blue sheen and bold vertical banding that gleams under aquarium lighting. Selectively bred for brilliance and symmetry, this angelfish displays an almost iridescent turquoise glow that shifts as it moves. Graceful, intelligent, and social, the Legend Paraiba makes an impressive centerpiece in medium to large planted aquariums.

What We Love About This Fish:

• Brilliant Metallic Sheen: Unique blue-green highlights that shimmer across the body and fins.
• Graceful Personality: Calm yet commanding presence, making it a stunning display fish.
• Tank-Bred Hardiness: Raised entirely in aquariums for improved health and adaptability.
• Iconic Elegance: Long, trailing fins and bold markings make each fish look sculptural in motion.

Natural Habitat:

The original Pterophyllum scalare species was first documented in the Amazon Basin, particularly in the calm backwaters and floodplain regions of Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. The Legend Paraiba strain was developed through selective breeding in captivity to enhance its metallic turquoise and blue hues. Although a designer morph, it retains the same elegant body shape and peaceful nature of its wild ancestors, thriving in warm, soft, slightly acidic water.

Aquascaping:

• Plants: Amazon Swords, Vallisneria, and tall stem plants offer vertical structure for their long fins.
• Hardscape: Use driftwood, rock clusters, and subdued lighting to accentuate their reflective sheen.
• Botanicals: Incorporate Indian Almond Leaves or Alder Cones to release tannins and reduce stress, echoing their native blackwater conditions. Aquatic Arts Botanical Combo Pack is a curated selection of beautiful and beneficial leave litter. 

Diet and Feeding:

The Legend Paraiba Angelfish is an omnivore and appreciates a diverse diet. Offer Ultra Fresh Tropical Excellent Bits - Shrimp Delights as a daily staple, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. A protein-rich diet enhances fin growth, coloration, and breeding readiness.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

This variety is peaceful when housed with compatible species. Ideal tank mates include tetras (in groups), Corydoras catfish, rainbowfish, and peaceful dwarf cichlids. Avoid overly aggressive or fin-nipping species, and ensure tankmates are large enough not to be mistaken for food.

Shrimp Compatibility:

Adult angelfish may eat small shrimp, so they are not recommended for shrimp tanks. If kept with shrimp, provide extensive hiding areas with moss and dense plants.

Breeding:

Like other P. scalare, this variety is a substrate spawner. Pairs clean a flat surface (often plant leaves or rocks) to lay eggs and guard the nest. Slightly warmer temperatures and increased protein intake can encourage breeding. Fry can be raised on infusoria, then freshly hatched brine shrimp.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 78° – 84°F (25° – 29°C)
• pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• KH: 1 – 6 dKH
• Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a pair; 55+ gallons for groups

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Omnivorous; thrives on Ultra Fresh Micro Pellets and frozen/live foods.
• Social Behavior: Semi-peaceful; best kept in pairs or groups of 4–6 to disperse mild territoriality.
• Origin: Tank-bred.
• Average Adult Size: 4 – 6 inches (10 – 15 cm) body; up to 8 inches (20 cm) including fins.
• Average Purchase Size: 1.5 – 2 inches (3.8 – 5 cm)

Graceful, intelligent, and luminous — the tank-bred Legend Paraiba Angelfish embodies the perfect balance of beauty and serenity, bringing timeless elegance to any planted aquarium.

Live Arrival Guarantee:
All Aquatic Arts brand animals come with a 100% live arrival guarantee, plus free email support from our team of aquatic specialists.