How to raise black feather fish
The black feather fish is a highly ornamental tropical fish named for its unique black feather-like fins. In recent years, with the increase in the number of aquarium enthusiasts, the breeding of black feathered fish has become a hot topic. This article will introduce in detail the breeding methods of black feathered fish, including water quality requirements, feed selection, breeding techniques, etc., to help you easily raise this beautiful fish.
1. Basic information about black feathered fish

Black feather fish, scientific namePterophyllum scalare, belongs to the Cichlididae family and is native to the Amazon River Basin in South America. It has an elegant body shape and slender fins, especially the dorsal and anal fins that resemble black feathers when spread out, hence its name. Black feather fish are suitable for living in neutral to slightly acidic soft water and have high requirements on water quality.
| Project | Specific content |
|---|---|
| scientific name | Pterophyllum scalare |
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | South America Amazon River Basin |
| Suitable water temperature | 24-28℃ |
| Suitable pH value | 6.5-7.5 |
| Suitable hardness | 5-12 dGH |
2. The breeding environment of black feathered fish
Black feathered fish has high requirements on the breeding environment, especially water quality and space. The following are some points you need to pay special attention to when breeding black feathered fish:
| environmental factors | Specific requirements |
|---|---|
| Fish tank size | It is recommended to be at least 50 liters and the height should not be less than 40 cm |
| water quality | Neutral to slightly acidic, soft water |
| water temperature | 24-28℃, heating rod required |
| Filtration system | Need to be equipped with a high-efficiency filter to keep the water clean |
| light | Moderate light, avoid direct sunlight |
| decoration | Fallen wood, aquatic plants, etc. can be placed to simulate natural habitats |
3. Feed selection for black feathered fish
Black feathered fish are omnivorous fish and have a variety of feed options, but they need to pay attention to nutritional balance. The following are common feed types:
| Feed type | Recommended brands/categories |
|---|---|
| artificial feed | Tropical fish pellet feed, flake feed |
| live bait | Bloodworms, water fleas, brine shrimp |
| frozen feed | Frozen bloodworms, frozen brine shrimp |
| plant feed | Spinach, peas (need to be cooked) |
4. Reproduction techniques of black feathered fish
The reproduction of black feathered fish requires specific conditions. The following are the key points to pay attention to when breeding:
| breeding conditions | Specific requirements |
|---|---|
| pairing | Choose healthy male and female fish of similar size |
| breeding tank | Prepare a separate breeding tank and keep the water temperature at 28°C |
| spawning substrate | Place broadleaf aquatic plants or spawning boards |
| hatch | The eggs hatch in about 2-3 days, and the water quality needs to be kept stable |
| Feeding of juvenile fish | Feed migratory water or microscopic insects in the early stage, and transition to small live bait in the later stage. |
5. Common problems and solutions
In the process of breeding black feathered fish, you may encounter some problems. The following are common problems and solutions:
| question | Solution |
|---|---|
| Broken fin | Check water quality and avoid mixing with aggressive fish |
| Loss of appetite | Check the water temperature and quality, and try to change the feed |
| white spot disease | Raise the temperature to 30°C and cooperate with white spot disease drug treatment |
| Water quality is turbid | Strengthen filtration and change water regularly |
6. Summary
Black feather fish is a beautiful and moderately difficult tropical fish, suitable for aquarium enthusiasts with certain experience. You can easily raise this fish by providing the right water quality, feed, and breeding environment. I hope this article can provide you with valuable reference, and I wish you happy breeding!
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