Angelfish – Pterophyllum scalare

Angelfish, known in Latin as Pterophyllum scalare, are among the most iconic and elegant aquarium fish. Their tall, triangular bodies and graceful fins make them a centerpiece of any community tank, while their relatively peaceful nature allows them to coexist with many other species. For aquarists who appreciate both beauty and behavior, angelfish are an inspiring choice that can transform an ordinary setup into a truly captivating underwater scene.

Natural habitat, behavior and appearance

In the wild, Pterophyllum scalare inhabit the slow-moving tributaries of the Amazon and its surrounding river systems. These waters are typically warm, soft and slightly acidic, with dense vegetation and numerous roots and branches. The angelfish’s laterally compressed body and long fins help them navigate through plants and submerged roots, making them masters of maneuvering in tight, overgrown spaces. Understanding this natural environment is the first step to recreating optimal conditions in the home aquarium.

Wild angelfish are usually silver with vertical dark bands, which serve as camouflage among plants and shadows. Selective breeding in the aquarium hobby has produced an impressive variety of color and fin patterns: marble, koi, veil-tail, zebra, ghost, platinum and many more. These varieties maintain the same basic anatomy and care requirements as the wild form, but offer a wide range of aesthetic options for aquarists who wish to design a uniquely styled tank.

Behaviorally, angelfish are generally peaceful but can be assertive, especially during feeding or breeding. They are cichlids, and like many cichlids they establish hierarchies and territories within the aquarium. Angelfish are often described as intelligent fish, capable of recognizing their caretakers and showing curiosity when someone approaches the tank. This interactive nature is one of the reasons so many hobbyists become attached to them.

Their body shape also influences how they interact with the environment. Because they are tall rather than long, they use vertical space in a tank more than many other fish. They like to swim among tall plants and near driftwood, occasionally pausing in open areas. When stressed or threatened, they may darken their body bars and tuck their fins closer to the body, while relaxed, healthy individuals display fully extended fins and vivid patterns.

Tank requirements and equipment

To keep angelfish healthy and comfortable, the aquarium must reflect their natural conditions as closely as practical. A key factor is tank height. Because Pterophyllum scalare grow tall, a deeper tank is much better than a shallow one. A volume of at least 120–150 liters is recommended for a small group, with a height of around 45–50 cm or more. This gives the fish enough vertical room to swim freely without cramped fins.

Water parameters should remain stable. Optimal temperature ranges from 24 to 28 °C, with slightly acidic to neutral pH, roughly 6.5–7.2. Soft to moderately hard water is usually ideal; however, many tank-bred angelfish are adaptable, as long as conditions do not swing dramatically. Maintaining such stable parameters is easier with a reliable heater, quality filter and appropriate monitoring equipment. MB Store offers a wide selection of aquariums, filters, heaters and thermometers that help maintain these essential conditions.

Filtration must be effective yet gentle. Strong, turbulent currents are not ideal because these fish originate from calm waters. A well-sized internal or external canister filter with adjustable flow works well. Many aquarists also use sponge filters in breeding and grow-out tanks, as they are gentle on fry and provide additional biological filtration. Combined filtration supports both mechanical and biological processes, ensuring clear water and stable nitrogen cycling.

Aquascaping plays a major role in angelfish well-being. Tall plants such as Amazon swords, Vallisneria and stem plants provide vertical structure and hiding spots. Driftwood and root-like decorations mimic their natural environment and create visually appealing focal points. Open swimming space should be preserved in front of the tank, while dense areas are arranged toward the back and sides. MB Store supplies both ready-made tanks and a variety of aquarium equipment, including lighting, substrates, decorations and plant care accessories, allowing hobbyists to design and maintain layouts tailored to their angels’ needs.

Lighting need not be extremely intense; moderate light is usually sufficient, especially if combined with live plants. Excessive brightness without adequate shade can make angelfish feel exposed and stressed. Timers are useful to ensure a consistent day-night cycle, usually around 8–10 hours of light per day. A stable, predictable rhythm supports the fish’s immune system and reduces the risk of stress-related diseases.

Feeding and nutrition

Pterophyllum scalare are omnivorous with a strong preference for protein-rich foods. In nature they consume small invertebrates, insect larvae, crustaceans and occasionally plant matter. In the aquarium, a varied diet is essential to support growth, immune function and coloration. High-quality flakes and granules made specifically for cichlids can serve as a staple, but they should be complemented by frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp and daphnia.

Feeding should be controlled to avoid obesity and water pollution. Angelfish quickly learn to beg for food and may appear hungry even when they have eaten enough. It is better to feed small portions two to three times a day, offering only what they can consume in a few minutes. Overfeeding leads to excess waste and can strain the filtration system, contributing to high nitrate levels and algae growth.

Young angelfish require more frequent feeding with smaller food particles. Specialized fry foods, powdered flakes and freshly hatched brine shrimp are ideal for early growth stages. As they mature, they can gradually transition to larger granules and whole frozen foods. Ensuring that every fish in the group receives adequate nutrition may require observing them closely during meals, adjusting the distribution of food across the tank.

A diverse menu also enhances coloration and fin development. Ingredients like spirulina and natural carotenoids can intensify reds, oranges and golds in some varieties. While angelfish will often nibble on soft plant matter or algae, they are not efficient algae eaters, so relying on them for algae control is not realistic. Instead, zooplankton-rich foods support both energy levels and natural behavior, encouraging them to hunt and explore.

Community tank compatibility

One of the major appeals of Pterophyllum scalare is their compatibility with a wide range of community fish, provided that tank mates are chosen carefully. Because adult angelfish can grow quite large, they may see very small fish as prey. Tiny species like neon tetras, small rasboras or juvenile shrimp are at risk of being eaten, especially in smaller or sparsely planted tanks. For a peaceful community, medium-sized, calm species are usually a better match.

Good tank mates include larger tetras, peaceful barbs, rainbowfish and many types of Corydoras catfish. These species generally occupy different sections of the water column and do not compete aggressively with angels. Bottom dwellers such as loaches and some plecos can coexist well if the tank provides enough territory and hiding spots. Avoid nippy fish that are prone to fin-biting, such as certain barbs or serpae tetras, because the long fins of angelfish make tempting targets.

Other cichlids can be considered but with caution. Dwarf cichlids like Apistogramma or Mikrogeophagus can sometimes work in larger aquariums with clear territories and dense planting. However, combining angels with highly aggressive or territorial cichlids, such as many Central American species, is usually problematic. Such combinations often result in persistent stress, ripped fins or serious injuries.

When building a community tank, stocking levels and social dynamics are crucial. A small group of angelfish, typically four to six individuals, tends to distribute aggression more evenly than just two, which may lead to bullying. However, this requires a sufficiently large tank and robust filtration. MB Store offers complete aquarium sets and standalone filters, heaters and other accessories, making it easier to create balanced communities tailored to the size and number of fish.

Breeding Pterophyllum scalare

Breeding angelfish is one of the most rewarding projects in freshwater aquaristics. These fish form monogamous pairs that display fascinating courtship and parental behavior. The first step toward breeding is obtaining a compatible pair, which often develops naturally from a group of juveniles raised together. Over time, two individuals may bond, defend a territory and begin cleaning a vertical surface such as a leaf or tank glass in preparation for spawning.

Once ready, the female deposits a line of adhesive eggs on the chosen surface, followed closely by the male, who fertilizes them. This process repeats until hundreds of eggs cover the area in neat rows. Both parents take turns fanning the eggs with their fins to provide oxygen and pick off any unfertilized or fungus-infected eggs. At typical aquarium temperatures, the eggs hatch in about two to three days, turning into wrigglers that remain attached to the spawning site by tiny threads.

After several more days, the fry become free-swimming and start searching for food. Parents often accompany them in tight schools, herding them like a cloud around the tank. At this stage, feeding is crucial. The smallest foods, such as infusoria, liquid fry food or newly hatched brine shrimp, are necessary to sustain rapid growth. Many breeders prefer to move the eggs or very young fry to a dedicated rearing tank to protect them from potential predators and to control water quality more precisely.

Caring for breeding pairs and fry requires extra attention to hygiene. Regular, small water changes and gentle filtration help maintain clean conditions without disturbing the tiny fish. Sponge filters are particularly useful because they provide biological filtration without the risk of sucking in fry. MB Store supplies breeding-friendly equipment such as sponge filters, air pumps and appropriately sized rearing tanks, allowing aquarists to set up specialized breeding systems tailored to their goals.

Health, disease prevention and maintenance

Like all aquarium fish, angelfish are vulnerable to stress and disease if conditions are poor. Common problems include parasitic infections, bacterial diseases and fungal growths. Many of these issues arise when water quality declines, stocking is excessive or new fish are introduced without proper quarantine. Prevention through stable conditions, good nutrition and careful observation is the most effective strategy.

Regular maintenance routines are essential. Partial water changes of 20–30% once a week, combined with gravel vacuuming, help remove excess waste and maintain low nitrate levels. Test kits for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate and pH allow aquarists to spot problems before they become serious. Visual inspection of the fish is equally important; clamped fins, loss of color, rapid breathing or unusual hiding behavior can indicate issues that require intervention.

Quarantine tanks are invaluable for introducing new fish safely. Keeping newcomers isolated for a few weeks allows observation for signs of disease and prevents pathogens from entering the main display tank. Many health issues spread quickly through shared water, so this extra step can save a great deal of trouble. MB Store offers smaller aquariums and necessary accessories that function perfectly as quarantine or hospital setups, giving hobbyists flexibility and control over health management.

Stress reduction also plays a big role in preventing disease. Overcrowding, constant aggression, unsuitable tank mates and poor hiding opportunities can weaken angelfish immune systems. Adequate space, carefully chosen neighbors and a thoughtfully designed aquascape help reduce tension. When fish feel secure, they display their full range of natural behaviors and vibrant coloration, making the aquarium more engaging and enjoyable to watch.

Choosing equipment and support from MB Store

Setting up an ideal environment for Pterophyllum scalare is much easier with access to specialized products and reliable advice. MB Store provides a broad range of aquariums, filters, heaters, lighting systems and other essential accessories, allowing hobbyists to assemble systems tailored precisely to angelfish requirements. Whether the goal is a simple community tank, a lush planted display or a dedicated breeding installation, it is possible to find suitable components that work together effectively.

Quality equipment directly affects fish health and owner satisfaction. A stable, accurate heater protects angelfish from temperature swings; efficient filters keep water clear and well-oxygenated, while appropriate lighting supports plant growth and enhances the visual appeal of the aquascape. MB Store focuses on offering reliable products that help maintain stable conditions over the long term, reducing the need for constant troubleshooting and emergency interventions.

Beyond hardware, MB Store also supports aquarists with knowledge and inspiration. Blog articles, product descriptions and practical guides help newcomers avoid common mistakes and assist experienced hobbyists in refining their setups. This combination of equipment and information makes it easier to plan coherent systems, from substrate and decoration choices to filtration capacity and automation. As a result, angelfish keepers can spend more time enjoying their pets and less time dealing with preventable problems.

Whether starting a first aquarium or upgrading an existing one, investing in appropriate tanks and gear pays dividends in fish longevity and well-being. Thoughtful planning, informed by the natural needs of Pterophyllum scalare, leads to thriving, dynamic displays. With the support of MB Store’s product range and expertise, creating a beautiful and sustainable angelfish habitat becomes an attainable, enjoyable project for aquarists at every level.

FAQ

How big do angelfish grow in a home aquarium?
Adult Pterophyllum scalare usually reach around 15 cm in body length, but their tall fins can make their overall height exceed 20 cm. Growth rate depends on genetics, diet and water quality. In smaller or overcrowded tanks, growth may be stunted. Providing adequate volume, stable parameters and varied food helps them achieve their full, impressive size without health issues.

Can angelfish live with small tetras or shrimp?
Angelfish may coexist with small tetras or shrimp in heavily planted, spacious aquariums, but there is always a risk they will view tiny tank mates as food, especially as they mature. Very young or very small fish are most vulnerable. For a safer community, choose medium-sized species and provide plenty of cover. Shrimp colonies usually fare better in separate, dedicated tanks.

How many angelfish can I keep together?
A modest group of four to six angelfish works well in a sufficiently large tank, typically from 200 liters upward. Keeping just two individuals can lead to bullying if they do not form a compatible pair. Larger groups distribute aggression more evenly, but require more space and strong filtration. Always consider adult size when planning stock, not just the size of juvenile fish.

What is the ideal temperature and pH for angelfish?
Angelfish are most comfortable at 24–28 °C, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.5 and 7.2. They can adapt to somewhat different parameters if changes are gradual and conditions remain stable. Sudden swings in temperature or pH are far more dangerous than steady values that are slightly outside the textbook range. Consistent monitoring helps prevent harmful fluctuations.

How often should I feed my angelfish?
Feeding two to three small meals per day is usually best. Offer only as much food as they can consume within a few minutes to avoid excess waste. Young fish may require more frequent, smaller portions to support rapid growth. A varied diet, including quality dry foods and occasional frozen or live items, keeps them healthy and active while minimizing the risk of obesity.