Freshwater Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

The freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is the tall, laterally compressed cichlid familiar in aquariums, originally from slow-moving, vegetated waters of the Amazon Basin and nearby South American drainages. It should not be confused with marine angelfishes, which are unrelated reef fishes. Wild-type angelfish have vertical bars, long triangular fins, and a narrow body that slips among roots and plants. Domestic strains add marble, gold, koi, black, veil-fin, and other forms.

Angelfish need more vertical room than many small community fish, plus warm stable water and tankmates that will not nip their fins. They are cichlids, so pairs may defend a spawning site and become pushy when breeding. Good care includes steady filtration, varied prepared and frozen foods, and attention to body shape, fin damage, and internal parasites. Breeders select for color, finnage, size, and pair behavior, but extreme fins or weak lines should be balanced against health and normal movement.