Angelfish Variety · Domestic line-bred variety (wild type native to the Amazon basin)

Marble

Irregular black, white and silver marbling makes every marble angelfish unique.

By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated June 2026

Medium8–10 years with good careSemi-aggressive cichlid; territorial when breeding

Marble angelfish — Irregular black, white and silver marbling makes every marble angelfish unique.

In brief

The Marble angelfish shows an irregular mix of black, white and silver marbling instead of clean bars, so no two fish look the same. The pattern can shift slightly as the fish matures.

Marble: At a Glance

Key facts about the Marble angelfish variety
Origin	Domestic line-bred variety (wild type native to the Amazon basin)
Size	Medium (to ~15 cm long and ~20 cm tall including fins)
Typical size	Body to ~15 cm long; very tall finnage
Lifespan	8–10 years with good care
Pattern & fins	Irregular black, white and silver marbled pattern
Temperament	Semi-aggressive cichlid; territorial when breeding
Best suited to	Larger planted tanks (110+ L); peaceful, non-fin-nipping tankmates

History & Origins

The Marble pattern arose from a colour mutation and was fixed by aquarists in the mid-20th century. Marbling intensity varies with genetics and age, and gold or orange highlights appear in some lines. Care matches all other angelfish varieties.

Marble Fun Facts

No two marble angelfish share the same pattern.
Marbling can change a little as the fish grows.
Some marbles develop gold or orange highlights.
The pattern comes from a long-established colour mutation.

Marble Common Health Issues

Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.

Ich (white spot disease)

A parasite producing white salt-like spots, flicking and rapid breathing — highly contagious between aquarium fish.

Care: Treat promptly with proprietary remedies and correct temperature and water quality; quarantine new fish.

Fin rot

Bacterial or fungal infection that frays and discolours the fins, usually triggered by poor water quality or injury.

Care: Improve filtration and water changes and treat with appropriate medication; remove sharp décor.

Hexamita (hole-in-the-head)

A protozoan infection causing pitting lesions on the head and lateral line, linked to stress and poor water quality.

Care: Improve water quality and diet; an experienced aquarist or vet can advise on metronidazole-based treatment.

Help animals in need

World Animal Rescue Network funds partner-led rescue, veterinary care and protection programmes across South Asia, Southeast Asia and South America.

Donate to WARN Wildlife guides

Marble FAQs

What is a Marble angelfish?

The Marble angelfish shows an irregular mix of black, white and silver marbling instead of clean bars, so no two fish look the same. The pattern can shift slightly as the fish matures.

Is the Marble angelfish hard to keep?

Variety does not change the basics — all angelfish need a tall, planted, well-filtered tank of 110+ litres, stable warm water and calm tankmates. The Marble suits keepers who can maintain steady water quality and avoid fin-nipping fish.

How big does a Marble angelfish get?

Like other Pterophyllum scalare varieties, the Marble grows to around 15 cm long and, with its tall fins, up to about 20 cm from top to bottom. Plan tank height and tankmates around that adult size, not the small juvenile sold in shops.