đŧ Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)
The Freshwater Angelfish is one of the most elegant and recognizable cichlids in the aquarium hobby. With their tall, compressed bodies and flowing fins, angels are a centerpiece fish that can live for over a decade with proper care. Despite their angelic name, they are still cichlids with semi-aggressive tendencies.
đ Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Pterophyllum scalare |
|---|---|
| Adult Size | 6 inches long, 8+ inches tall (15-20+ cm) |
| Minimum Tank | 30 gallons for pair, 55+ for group |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive cichlid |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years |
| Origin | Amazon Basin, South America |
â ī¸ Important Considerations
- Will eat small fish - Neon tetras, guppy fry are food
- Need tall tanks - Height more important than length
- Can become territorial - Especially when breeding
- Sensitive to water quality - Need pristine conditions
đ Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: 30 gallons minimum, 55+ for groups
- Tank Height: At least 18 inches tall
- Plants: Love Amazon swords and tall plants
- Filtration: Strong but diffused flow
- Driftwood: Appreciated for hiding and aesthetics
Water Parameters
| Temperature | 76-84°F (24-29°C) |
|---|---|
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Hardness | 3-8 dGH (soft to moderate) |
| Ammonia/Nitrite | 0 ppm |
| Nitrate | <20 ppm |
đŊī¸ Diet & Feeding
Omnivores with carnivorous preferences.
- High-quality cichlid pellets/flakes - Staple
- Frozen bloodworms - Favorite treat
- Frozen brine shrimp
- Live foods - Occasional treat
- Blanched vegetables - Peas, spinach
Feed 2-3 times daily. Adults can be fed once daily.
đ Compatibility
Good Tankmates
- Larger tetras (Congo, Bleeding Heart, Serpae)
- Corydoras catfish
- Bristlenose plecos
- Rainbowfish
- Peaceful larger barbs
- Keyhole cichlids
Avoid
- Small fish - Neons, small rasboras (will be eaten)
- Fin nippers - Tiger barbs, serpae tetras
- Aggressive cichlids
- Very active fish - May stress angels
đĢ Keeping Groups
- Best kept in pairs or groups of 5+
- Avoid groups of 3-4 (odd fish gets bullied)
- Will establish hierarchy
- Pairs may become aggressive when breeding
đĄ Tips for Success
- Choose tank height over length
- Don't keep with small fish they can eat
- Provide tall plants for security
- Maintain excellent water quality
- Be prepared for territorial behavior during breeding
đ Summary
Angelfish are stunning centerpiece fish that combine elegance with the interesting behaviors of cichlids. They require a tall tank, excellent water quality, and tankmates too large to eat. With proper care, these majestic fish can live over a decade and become true pets that recognize their owners.