Bulgarian Seal Point Angelfish

The Bulgarian Seal Point Angelfish is a beautiful and elegant freshwater fish, known for its graceful fins and a unique coloration that develops into adulthood. While it's a specific color variation, its care requirements are generally similar to other angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare). Here is a comprehensive care guide to help you provide the best environment for your Bulgarian Seal Point Angelfish.

Tank & Environment

• Tank Size: Angelfish have a tall body shape, so the height of the tank is as important as the length and width. A minimum of a 30-gallon tank is recommended for a single angelfish, but a 40-55 gallon tank or larger is ideal for a pair or small group.

• Substrate: Fine gravel or sand is a good choice.

• Decor: Provide a well-planted aquarium with tall plants like Amazon Sword and Vallisneria. These plants offer a natural environment and provide hiding places. Add driftwood and rocks to create additional cover and territory markers.

• Water Flow: Angelfish prefer gentle to moderate water flow. A good filter is essential to maintain water quality, but avoid strong currents that can stress the fish.

Water Parameters

Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for the health of angelfish.

• Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C).
• pH: 6.5-7.5. Angelfish can tolerate a slightly wider pH range, but this is the optimal range for their health.

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (3-8 dGH). High mineralization can sometimes affect egg hatching if you plan to breed them.

Diet

Bulgarian Seal Point Angelfish are omnivores and should be fed a varied diet to ensure optimal health and coloration.

• Staple Diet: High-quality flake or pellet food formulated for angelfish.

• Frozen/Live Foods: Supplement their diet with protein-rich foods such as frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

• Vegetable Matter: Include plant-based foods like spirulina-based flakes or blanched vegetables.

Behavior & Compatibility

• Temperament: Angelfish are generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially during breeding. They are semi-aggressive.

• Tank Mates: Choose tank mates carefully. Suitable companions include other peaceful community fish of a similar size, such as:

  • Larger tetras (e.g., Black Skirt Tetras, Congo Tetras)

  • Gouramis

  • Corydoras catfish

  • Peaceful barbs

  • Rainbowfish

  • Other angelfish (in a large enough tank to allow for territory)

• Avoid:

  • Fin-nippers (e.g., Tiger Barbs) that may damage the angelfish's long, flowing fins.

  • Very small, delicate fish that the angelfish may see as prey.

  • Dwarf shrimp and other small invertebrates.

Breeding

Angelfish are egg-layers and form monogamous pairs. If you wish to breed them, consider the following:

• Pairing: The easiest way to get a breeding pair is to purchase a small group of juveniles (6 or more) and allow them to pair off naturally as they mature.

• Spawning: Once paired, they will clean a flat, vertical surface (like a broad plant leaf, a piece of slate, or a special breeding cone) to lay their eggs.

• Parental Care: The parents will guard and tend to the eggs and fry. Many captive-bred angelfish have lost their natural parenting instincts, and may eat their eggs.

Health & Maintenance

• Water Changes: Regular water changes are essential to maintain stable and clean water, which is key to preventing disease and keeping your angelfish healthy. A 10-25% water change every 1-2 weeks is a good starting point.

• Filtration: A good filter is necessary to remove waste and maintain water quality.

• Observation: Regularly observe your angelfish for any signs of disease, such as lethargy, clamped fins, white spots (ich), or other abnormal behavior.

By providing a suitable environment, a balanced diet, and compatible tank mates, you can enjoy the majestic beauty of the Bulgarian Seal Point Angelfish for many years.