Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)
Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)
Species: Pterophyllum scalare
Growth Form: Laterally compressed, tall-bodied cichlid with long flowing fins
Coloration: Wide variety – silver, marble, koi, zebra, platinum, veil forms
Temperament: Semi-aggressive; can be territorial, especially during breeding
Tank Size: 30 gallons (pair), 55+ gallons (group)
Placement: Mid-water swimmer; prefers tall aquariums
Lighting: Low to moderate
Flow: Low to moderate
Diet: Omnivore (flakes, pellets, frozen, live foods)
Feeding: 1–2 times daily; varied diet recommended
Reef Safe: N/A (freshwater species)
Care Level: Moderate
Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)
Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare
Common Names: Freshwater Angelfish, Angel Fish
Family: Cichlidae
Origin: Amazon River Basin (Brazil, Peru, Colombia)
Overview
Freshwater angelfish are one of the most iconic and widely kept cichlids in the aquarium hobby. Known for their elegant triangular shape, long flowing fins, and graceful swimming style, they bring a striking vertical presence to any tank. Selective breeding has produced numerous color morphs including koi, marble, zebra, platinum, and veil varieties.
Size
- Adult Size: 6 inches (body length)
- Height (including fins): Up to 8–10 inches
- Growth Rate: Moderate
Lifespan
- Typically 8–12 years with proper care
Temperament
- Semi-aggressive (especially as they mature)
- Can become territorial during breeding
- May prey on very small fish (e.g., neon tetras)
- Best kept with similarly sized, peaceful to semi-aggressive tank mates
Tank Requirements
- Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons (pair), 55+ gallons (group)
- Ideal Tank Shape: Tall aquariums preferred due to vertical body shape
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
- Aquascape: Driftwood, tall plants (Amazon swords, Vallisneria), open swimming space
- Filtration: Moderate flow; avoid strong currents
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–10 dGH)
- Prefer stable, clean water conditions
Diet
- Omnivorous
- Accepts a wide range of foods:
- High-quality flakes or pellets
- Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp)
- Live foods (blackworms, daphnia)
Feeding
- Feed 1–2 times daily
- Provide a varied diet for optimal coloration and health
- Avoid overfeeding (prone to digestive issues)
Tank Mates
Compatible:
- Larger tetras (e.g., rummynose, black skirt)
- Corydoras catfish
- Dwarf gouramis
- Rainbowfish
Avoid:
- Fin-nippers (e.g., tiger barbs)
- Very small fish (may be eaten)
- Highly aggressive cichlids
Breeding
- Egg layers; form monogamous pairs
- Lay eggs on flat surfaces (leaves, slate, glass)
- Parents may guard eggs and fry, though some may eat them in captivity
- Fry require infusoria or baby brine shrimp initially
Reef Safe
- Not applicable (freshwater species)
Care Level
- Moderate
- Suitable for intermediate hobbyists, though beginners can succeed with proper research and stable tank conditions
Special Notes
- Sensitive to poor water quality—regular water changes are essential
- Tall tanks are highly recommended to prevent fin deformation
- Long-finned varieties require extra care to avoid fin damage
- Social hierarchy may develop when kept in groups