Angel Fish – Pterophyllum Scalare

The unique shape and majestic, calm swimming style of the Angel Fish (Pterophyllum Scalare)  are just a few of the reasons why this fish is one of the most popular of all aquarium fish.

Angel Fishs are laterally compressed and look like a disk on the edge with long fins protruding from the top and bottom with 2 “antennas” in front of the anal fin. The Bandeiras were selectively bred, resulting in a wide variety of color shapes, in both regular and long fin varieties.

Angel Fish are best kept in pairs or, better yet, in small groups. They are generally peaceful, however larger mature specimens can eat smaller fish such as neons.

 

Maximum size

Up to 14cm

Water quality

Tolerates a wide range of water conditions, but prefers slightly acidic soft water.

Temperature: 25°C – 29°C

pH: 6.5 – 7.0

General Hardness: 50 – 150 ppm

Coloring and varieties

The eye is usually dark red, but many color strains now have black eyes. The wild form’s body color is silvery white with 4 dark vertical bars running through it. Many color strains were developed by fish breeders around the world such as blue, gold, marble, koi, black and other color variations now available.

Also known as Angel Fish, they were selectively bred for their scale patterns. For example, Pearlscale or Diamond An-gel have very attractive diamond-like scales.

 

Aquarium Setup

Angels do best in a deep tank at least 40 centimeters high to accommodate the shape of their tail.

Dark color background decorations allow your fine colors to show through to the fullest extent. 3mm black gravel and river sand; approximately 10:50kg ratio – mix black gravel into the sand to create a mottled effect.

Make sure the water conditions are set according to the desired ranges for the angelfish, they appreciate a well-planted pond with plenty of open space for swimming.

 

food

They will eat most aquarium fish foods, but they will thrive and will be much better able to breed on a very varied diet, including some live, dehydrated or fresh foods occasionally. Angels of small size, about 3 to 4 cm, are still considered fingerlings and require balanced feeding and in ideal proportions like Nutrafish.