Angelfish Variety · Domestic line-bred variety (wild type native to the Amazon basin)
Veil
A fin type, not a colour — long, trailing fins that flow like a veil.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Veil (veiltail) angelfish is a fin variety with greatly elongated, flowing fins that can appear on any colour. The long fins are graceful but tear more easily and slow the fish down, so it needs gentle tankmates.
Veil: At a Glance
| 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 | Any colour with greatly elongated, flowing fins |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive cichlid; slow, graceful swimmer |
| Best suited to | Larger planted tanks (110+ L); peaceful, non-fin-nipping tankmates |
History & Origins
The Veil trait is a dominant fin mutation that lengthens the dorsal, anal and tail fins. It combines with every colour variety — veil silver, veil koi and so on. The trailing fins are delicate, so sharp décor and fin-nipping fish must be avoided.
Veil Fun Facts
- Veil is a fin type, so it appears on every colour variety.
- The elongated fins are caused by a dominant gene.
- Long fins tear more easily and need gentle tankmates.
- Veil angelfish swim more slowly than standard-finned fish.
Veil 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.
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.
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.
Swim bladder disorder
Problems with the gas-filled swim bladder leave fish floating, sinking or swimming oddly, often from overfeeding, constipation or poor water quality.
Care: Improve diet and water quality and avoid overfeeding; soak dry foods and fast briefly if constipation is suspected.
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