Zebra Lace Angelfish: Graceful Stripes with a Lacy Twist

The Zebra Lace Angelfish is a stunning and elegant variety of freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare), known for its striking black vertical stripes and delicate lace-like finnage. A true showpiece in any community or planted aquarium, this variant combines the bold pattern of zebra angelfish with the flowing, translucent fins of the lace type—creating a mesmerizing appearance in motion.

A Beautiful Twist on a Classic

Derived from selective breeding of wild angelfish, the Zebra Lace variety inherits the best of both worlds: extra vertical barring (usually four or more dark stripes) from the zebra gene and elongated, lacey fins from the veil trait. The result is a shimmering, graceful fish that adds movement and visual interest to the mid and upper levels of your tank.

Care and Compatibility

Zebra Lace Angelfish are relatively hardy and well-suited for intermediate aquarists. They thrive in peaceful community setups with calm, non-fin-nipping tankmates.

Basic Care Info:

• Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare

• Temperament: Semi-peaceful

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (taller tanks preferred)

• Temperature: 76–82°F

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Diet: Omnivorous – enjoys flakes, pellets, frozen, and live foods

• Lifespan: 8–10 years with proper care

Ideal Tankmates:

• Tetras (except small ones like neon when angels are full-grown)

• Gouramis

• Corydoras catfish

• Peaceful barbs (avoid fin-nippers like tiger barbs)

• Rainbowfish

• Other peaceful cichlids

Avoid housing with aggressive or very small fish that may either harass or be eaten by mature angelfish.

Tank Setup Tips:

• Vertical decorations like driftwood or tall plants mimic their natural Amazon habitat

• Moderate current and good filtration are recommended

• Dim or diffused lighting enhances their metallic shine

• Use a secure lid—while not jumpers, they can leap when startled

Breeding Potential

Zebra Lace Angelfish are known to form monogamous pairs and will lay eggs on flat surfaces like broad leaves or aquarium glass. If you’re looking to breed them, provide a calm, species-only setup and remove eggs or parents depending on your method.

Why Choose a Zebra Lace Angelfish?

• Eye-catching combination of zebra stripes and flowing fins

• Peaceful and elegant centerpiece fish

• Pairs beautifully in planted or natural aquascapes

• Great for peaceful community tanks

Whether you're just starting with angelfish or expanding your collection, the Zebra Lace Angelfish offers beauty, movement, and personality in equal measure.

Let their gentle glide and striking patterns bring a graceful presence to your freshwater aquarium today.