Freshwater Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare · family Cichlidae
Parameters
- Temperature
- 24–30 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Hardness
- 5–13 °dGH
- Tank volume
- from 200 L
- Maximum size
- up to 15 cm
- Group size
- min 2, ideal 5
- Temperament
- Semi-aggressive
- Swimming zone
- Middle
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Lifespan
- 8–15 years
Description
The freshwater angelfish is a tall-bodied cichlid with long thread-like fins. It needs a tall tank (at least 50 cm in height) — otherwise the fins become deformed.
A group of juveniles forms a pair, then drives the rest away. Aquariums typically hold a pair or a group of 5+. Groups of three or four lead to relentless bullying of the weakest fish.
Care
Tank height
Minimum 50 cm. Length — from 100 cm for a pair. Tall narrow tanks are better than wide shallow ones.
Feeding
A balanced diet: cichlid flakes or pellets + frozen bloodworm and brine shrimp. Add a plant component 1–2 times a week.
Compatibility
- Discus
Symphysodon aequifasciatus
Compatible biotope, but angelfish carry parasites discus are sensitive to.
Caution - Good
- Avoid
- Caution
- Avoid
- Caution
FAQ
- How many angelfish should be kept together?
- A bonded pair, or a group of 5+ in a large tank. A trio is the worst option — the third fish becomes a constant scapegoat.
Goldie editorial team
Practising aquarists with a combined 30+ years of experience · Biologists and editors, fact-checking against FishBase and Seriously Fish · Every piece is reviewed by a qualified ichthyologist before publication
Scientific board — ichthyologists and veterinarians
Ichthyologists and veterinarians with university degrees · Reference FishBase, Seriously Fish and peer-reviewed literature · Sign every reviewed article with their credentials shown
Sources
- FishBase: Pterophyllum scalare · FishBase · 2026-05-22
- Seriously Fish: Pterophyllum scalare · Seriously Fish · 2026-05-22