The electric blue colors juxtaposed with the striking platinum-white of the blue platinum angelfish make it a prize catch. Meticulous selective breeding has produced this angelfish variety displaying vivid blue on the body and fins with bright white on the head.
Introducing Blue Platinum Angelfish
Blue platinum angelfish have the signature high, flattened oval bodyshape of angelfish coupled with mesmerizing blue and white coloration. Intense blue covers the body while the head exhibits a distinctive platinum-white sheen. Their elegant extended fins complete the royal presence.
General Information
- Origin: Blue platinum angelfish originated as a color variant developed through selective breeding. They do not exist naturally in the wild.
- Size: At maturity, blue platinum angelfish reach 6-8 inches in length. Their body shape is significantly taller than wide.
- Lifespan: 10-15 years is common under proper home aquarium care. Some may surpass 15 years.
- Temperament: Blue platinum angelfish are relatively peaceful but can be mildly aggressive towards other angelfish. They may consume much smaller tankmates.
- Appearance: Angelfish body shape. Brilliant metallic blue on the body and fins. Platinum-white coloring on the head. Elegant extended dorsal and anal fins.
- Varieties: Other color mixes like gold/blue marbles also exist. No major variations.
- Price: $15-$35 is typical, but high quality show specimens often cost $50-$100.
Habitat & Tank Requirements
- Natural Habitat: Blue platinum angelfish are selectively bred color variants. Wild angelfish inhabit South American rivers like the Amazon.
- Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallon tank. For pairs, provide 55+ gallons. Always choose the largest tank possible.
- Water Parameters: Temperature 76-84°F, pH 6.0-7.0, hardness level between 5-13 dGH.
- Tank Setup: Planted tanks with driftwood, dim lighting to showcase coloration. Allow open swimming space.
Feeding
- Diet: As omnivores, they eat brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, quality flakes/pellets along with some vegetable matter.
- Feeding Habits: Blue platinum angelfish are active, aggressive feeders. Provide 2-3 small meals daily that they can consume within 2 minutes.
- Suitable Foods: Frozen or live brine shrimp, bloodworms, mysis shrimp. Sinking pellets/flakes formulated for angelfish. Occasional blanched vegetables.
Breeding
- Reproduction: Blue platinum angelfish form pairs and exhibit courting behaviors before spawning on cleaned vertical surfaces. Parents care for eggs/fry.
- Breeding Requirements: Trigger spawning by performing large water changes and feeding high protein foods. Provide a vertical spawning slate.
- Spawning Process: The female deposits up to several hundred eggs on the spawning site which the male fertilizes. Free swimming fry emerge within 6-8 days after hatching.
Common Health Issues
Prone to ichthyophthirius (ich), bacterial/fungal infections, intestinal parasites if water quality declines. Maintain excellent conditions and varied diet. Use quarantine and treat any illness promptly.
Preventative measures include optimal water conditions, high quality varied diet, observing fish behavior/appearance, and quarantining new additions. Consult an exotic fish vet about persisting problems.
Special Considerations
- Compatibility: Avoid fin nippers. Suitable tankmates include similar sized tetras, rasboras, barbs, danios, dwarf cichlids, plecos, cory cats.
- Special Instructions: Perform regular partial water changes using softened, slightly acidic water. Give them ample swimming space.
- Legal Restrictions: None. Blue platinum angelfish are commonly available in the aquarium trade.
Suitable Blue Platinum Angelfish Tankmates
- Other angelfish types
- Mollies
- Platies
- Swordtails
- Tetras like neon, cardinal, rummynose
- Rasboras like harlequin
- Corydoras catfish
- Plecos
Differences Between Males & Females
Mature males develop a nuchal hump on the forehead and are generally larger than females. Males display more intense coloration while females exhibit more subdued tones. Pairs show synchronized swimming and spawning behaviors.
“How many species of Blue platinum angelfish?”
There is only one species, Pterophyllum scalare. Color morphs like blue platinum are developed through selective breeding.
“How to feed Blue platinum angelfish to make their color brighter?”
Carotenoid-rich foods like seafood and algae along with color enhancing pellets help intensify the blue hues. Spirulina also boosts color.
“How Big do Blue platinum angelfish Grow?”
At maturity, blue platinum angelfish typically reach 6-8 inches in length. Some captive bred lines can surpass 8 inches long.
“How fast do Blue platinum angelfish grow?”
With optimal conditions, they grow to full adult size within 10-14 months after hatching. Growth rate slows down after one year.
“How long do Blue platinum angelfish live?”
Average lifespan is 10-15 years with proper tank maintenance and care. Some specimens may exceed 15 years in optimal environments.
“How to take care of Blue platinum angelfish?”
Perform regular partial water changes, varied feeding, maintain warm, soft, acidic water, allow open swimming space, use subdued lighting.
“Which food products are the best for Blue platinum angelfish?”
Hikari, Cobalt Aquatics, Omega One, and New Life Spectrum angelfish formulas provide balanced nutrition.
“Is good to keep Blue platinum angelfish as Pets?”
Yes, their elegant appearance, graceful maneuvers, and striking colors make them exceptional freshwater centerpiece fish.
“Why my Blue platinum angelfish die?”
Common causes include poor water conditions, improper diet, bullying tankmates, infections/disease, or neglect. Promptly address any problems observed.
“Are Blue platinum angelfish Aggressive?”
Generally peaceful but can show mild aggression towards other angels, especially when spawning. Provide adequate tank space.
“Do Blue platinum angelfish kill other fish?”
Healthy specimens rarely kill tankmates, though they may eat smaller fish. Stressed/sick angelfish can show atypical aggression. Ensure proper care.
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