Source: Wikimedia Commons
Angelfish
IntermediateIconic triangular silhouette synonymous with tropical fish. Many selectively bred varieties. Pair breeding is rewarding.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
22〜28℃
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
12-15cm (height exceeds 20cm)
Diet
Pellets, frozen food
About
The angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is an iconic cichlid native to the Amazon and Orinoco River basins of South America. Its instantly recognizable triangular silhouette — created by dramatically elongated dorsal and ventral fins — combined with vertical black striping on a silver body has made it one of the most beloved aquarium fish worldwide. Body length reaches 12–15 cm, but height including fins can exceed 20 cm, making a tall tank (45 cm+ height) essential. Wild-type coloring is silver with black vertical bands, but selective breeding has yielded gold, marble, bicolor, veil-tail, and many other varieties. Angelfish prefer slightly warm, slightly acidic to neutral water (25–30°C, pH 6.5–7.0). Though generally peaceful, they exhibit typical cichlid territorial behavior during breeding: bonded pairs will aggressively defend their spawning area. Small fish such as neon tetras risk predation when kept together. They accept most aquarium foods — pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp — readily. Pairs spawn on flat surfaces and both parents take turns guarding eggs and fry, displaying exceptional parental care.
Basic Info
Origin
Amazon and Orinoco River basins, South America
Lifespan
10-15 years
Size
12-15cm (height exceeds 20cm)
Temperature
22〜28℃
Diet
Pellets, frozen food
Care Guide
Tank
45cm+ tall tank recommended
Care Specifications
- pH
- 6–8
- Hardness (GH)
- 5–13 dGH
- Water Temp.
- 24–30℃
- Min. Tank
- 200 L
PeacefulGroup
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not CITES-listed
Sources: FishBase / Seriously Fish / CITES Appendices (Checklist)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Angelfish Listings
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