Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

The freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a laterally compressed cichlid from slow, vegetated waters of the Amazon Basin and nearby drainages. It is the aquarium angelfish most people mean, separate from marine angelfishes. Wild-type fish have a tall triangular outline, long dorsal and anal fins, and vertical dark bars that help break up the body among roots and plants. Captive breeding has produced many strains, including silver, marble, gold, koi, zebra, black, and veil-fin forms.

Angelfish are common in community aquaria, but their height, pair bonding, and cichlid temperament need planning. Tall warm tanks with stable filtration suit them better than cramped setups, and long fins are easily damaged by fin-nipping tankmates. They take prepared foods, frozen foods, and small live foods, while breeding pairs often clean a leaf, filter pipe, or slate before laying eggs. Buyers should look for straight bodies, intact fins, clear eyes, and active feeding; quarantine is sensible because domestic lines vary widely in hardiness.