Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

Family: Cichlidae

A semi-aggressive omnivore cichlidae from Peru, Colombia, Brazil — moderate care.

Care parameters

Water temperature: 24–30 °C
pH: 6–8
GH hardness: 5–13 dGH
Adult length: 7.3–10.5 cm
Minimum tank: 105 L
Water layer: Mid-water swimmer
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Origin: 东亚淡水水系

Species overview

Pterophyllum scalare is a Cichlidae. In the aquarium it stays semi-aggressive. Plan on 7.3–10.5 cm of adult fish at 24–30 °C. Related profiles: Pterophyllum altum, Pterophyllum leopoldi.

Native biotope

Habitat: Clear streams, rivers and still waters
Flow: Still to very gentle water
Dissolved O₂: Average oxygen needs

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate: Dark fine gravel or sand
Hardscape: Driftwood, water-worn stones and shelters that mimic the native biotope
Plants: Mixed planting with open swimming lanes

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling: Solitary, pairs or small groups
Diet: Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety
Recommended tankmates: Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs
Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs
Acheilognathus gracilis — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with: Fin-nipping species — Its fins become targets

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism: Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied
Breeding method: Egg-scatterer over fine plants; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes

Frequently asked questions

Is Angelfish easy to keep?

Intermediate difficulty. Semi-aggressive; solitary, pairs or small groups.

What temperature and water chemistry does Angelfish need?

Aim for 24–30 °C. Heater required for stable tropical warmth; 24–30 °C recorded range.

How big does Angelfish get, and what tank size?

Expect 7.3–10.5 cm as an adult, living mid-water swimmer. A 105 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Angelfish eat?

Omnivore; quality prepared foods with variety. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Angelfish live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Semi-aggressive — pair it with Amur False Gudgeon — Similar size and water needs, Striped Bitterling — Similar size and water needs, Acheilognathus gracilis — Similar size and water needs and skip Fin-nipping species — Its fins become targets.

Where does Angelfish come from?

Comes from 东亚淡水水系: clear streams, rivers and still waters. Expect still to very gentle water and average oxygen needs.

How does Angelfish breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer over fine plants; condition with rich foods and simulate seasonal changes. Males are typically slimmer and more intensely colored; females fuller-bodied.