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freshwaterAngelfish
Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
Also known as: Angelfish, Freshwater Angelfish, Scalare Angelfish
IntermediateSemi-aggressiveOmnivore
About
The freshwater angelfish is the familiar tall-bodied cichlid from the Amazon basin, usually referring to Pterophyllum scalare in shops. Domestic strains include silver, black, marble, koi, veil, and many others—these are line-bred forms of the same species. Juveniles often school; adults form pairs and may become territorial when breeding. They eat small fish that fit in the mouth, so avoid tiny nano species. Tall tanks suit their body shape; soft to moderately soft water and warm, stable conditions work best for wild-type preferences. Open substrate spawners on leaves or vertical surfaces.
Feeding & Diet
Cichlid pellets; frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, or mysis; include some vegetable matter; vary diet for fin development.
Frequency: 1–2× daily
Feed enough for tall growth; avoid only flake long-term.
Habitat
Native Region: South America (Amazon basin—slow streams and flood zones)
Vegetated margins, roots, and submerged wood in warm, soft water.
Tall aquarium (50+ cm height); plants and driftwood; gentle flow; watch fin nipping with long-finned fish.
Behavior
Activity Level: Moderate
Mid-water cruisers; territorial when breeding; may eat very small fish or shrimp.
Breeding
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Egg layer
Sexual Dimorphism: Breeding tube shape differs; males may develop forehead bump in some lines; ventral shape aids sexing in adults.
Pairs clean a vertical leaf or tube; both guard eggs and wrigglers; separate other fish during spawning.
Tank Setup
Substrate: Either
Plant Safe: Yes
Broad leaves or spawning cones for breeding; vertical wood for natural posture.
Your tanks
Add this species to a saved tank stocking list.
Care Requirements
Family
Cichlidae
Genus
Pterophyllum
Maximum Size
15 cm
Minimum Tank Size
200 liters
Temperature
24-28°C
pH Range
6-7.5
Tank Region
Middle
Lifespan
8–12 years
Growth Rate
Moderate
Activity Level
Moderate
Breeding Difficulty
Moderate
Breeding Type
Egg layer
Native Region
South America (Amazon basin—slow streams and flood zones)
Substrate
Either
Plant Safe
Yes
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