Pterophyllum scalare (Freshwater Angelfish)
Photo © Pond Life
Family: Cichlidae
Scientific name: Pterophyllum scalare
Common name: Freshwater Angelfish
Synonyms: Platax scalaris, Zeus scalaris, Pterophyllum eimekei
Origin: South America: Amazon River basin in Peru, Colombia, and Brazil. Amazon, Amapa, Ucayali and Solimoes rivers. Rio Oyapock in French Guiana, Essequibo River in Guyana.
Adult size: 12-15cm
Lifespan: 10 years
Sex: There are no discernable differences except during the breeding season; the genital papilla on the male is pointed and on the female it is rounded.
Minimum aquarium size: 80cm
Aquarium decor: Plants
Temperature: 24-28°C
Water chemistry: pH 6.0-8.0. Hardness 5-13°dGH
Diet: Omnivore; live, frozen, flake, tablet, supplement with lettuce or spinach
Swimming level: Middle
Compatibility: Generally considered to be a community fish but can become territorial and is best not kept with small fish.
Comments: Feed mosquito larvae as a treat in small amounts. Angelfish will readily over-eat which can kill them.
