The most iconic South American Cichlid, known for its distinct arrowhead shape and majestic fins. While domestic strains are hardy, they remain cichlids: they are semi-aggressive predators that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras). They form loose shoals as juveniles but pair off and become territorial as they mature. Height is more important than length for this species.
Freshwater Angelfish At a Glance
Freshwater Angelfish Tank Requirements
Will Freshwater Angelfish fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Freshwater Angelfish needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Freshwater Angelfish against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Freshwater Angelfish Water Parameters
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Freshwater Angelfish Temperament & Compatibility
Freshwater Angelfish Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard (Short Fin)
The standard domestic Angelfish. Includes all color morphs (Koi, Marble, Gold, Black) with standard fin length. Hardy and adaptable.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Silver, Zebra, Koi, Marble, Gold, Blushing, Smokey
Veiltail (Long Finned)
Bred for excessively long, flowing fins. These fish are slower swimmers and prone to fin damage from high flow or nippy tankmates (like Tiger Barbs).
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Super Veil, Combtail
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Young Angelfish sold at small sizes (coin-sized). They can be kept in smaller tanks temporarily but grow vertically very fast. Must be upgraded to 150L+ within 6-9 months.
Differs in 7 traits from base species
Also known as: Dime Size, Quarter Size, Baby
Freshwater Angelfish Care Guide Summary
The Freshwater Angelfish, scientifically known as Pterophyllum scalare, belongs to the Cichlids - South American family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 15 cm and have a compressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and surface zones of the aquarium and produces a medium level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Freshwater Angelfish requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 150 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 30°C, with a pH range of 6–7.8 and a general hardness of 3–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Freshwater Angelfish is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 3 varieties: Standard (Short Fin), Veiltail (Long Finned), and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Freshwater Angelfish Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Freshwater Angelfish, a low water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and surface zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise adequate surface area with floating cover to make them feel secure near the waterline and open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement. Useful additions include driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement, light plant coverage for partial shade, and dense planting to provide cover, break sightlines, and reduce stress.
Freshwater Angelfish Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Freshwater Angelfish is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, avoid housing with slow-moving or long-finned species that may become targets for fin nipping, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions, conspecific aggression can be intense, especially in smaller tanks, and territorial behaviour may cause issues if hiding spots or floor space are limited. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and surface zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Freshwater Angelfish Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Freshwater Angelfish.
40 Gallon Breeder
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
Show 9 more tank sizes
Freshwater Angelfish Feeding & Diet Considerations
The Freshwater Angelfish is a predatory species that will readily consume small fish, so nano or bite-sized tankmates should be avoided and will hunt and eat ornamental shrimp, making it unsuitable for shrimp-focused setups.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Freshwater Angelfish
How big does Freshwater Angelfish get?
Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 15 cm. They have a compressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Freshwater Angelfish need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 150 litres and a tank length of at least 90 cm are recommended for Freshwater Angelfish. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Freshwater Angelfish need?
Freshwater Angelfish thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–30°C, a pH between 6 and 7.8, and a general hardness of 3–15 dGH. A low water flow is preferred.
Is Freshwater Angelfish peaceful or aggressive?
Freshwater Angelfish is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 6 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Freshwater Angelfish live alone?
Yes, Freshwater Angelfish can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Is Freshwater Angelfish safe with shrimp?
No. Freshwater Angelfish is known to eat ornamental shrimp and is not recommended for shrimp tanks. Even larger shrimp species like Amano Shrimp may be at risk.
Does Freshwater Angelfish have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Freshwater Angelfish benefits from plants - densely covered, driftwood (digestion/hiding), and plants - lighly covered in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Plants That Suit Freshwater Angelfish
These plants pair well with Freshwater Angelfish based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Beckett's Water Trumpet
Cryptocoryne beckettii
Broad-leaved Crypt
Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia
Carolina Fanwort
Cabomba caroliniana
Crypt Wendtii
Cryptocoryne wendtii
Cryptocoryne Lutea
Cryptocoryne walkeri var. lutea
Dwarf Crypt
Cryptocoryne parva
Fish Similar to Freshwater Angelfish
Chocolate Cichlid
Hypselecara temporalis
A large, deep-bodied South American cichlid famous for its 'gentle giant' temperament. They undergo significant color changes as they mature, eventually displaying rich chocolate browns, greens, and vibrant reds. Though peaceful for their size, they are still cichlids and will consume any fish small enough to fit in their mouths.
Blue Acara
Andinoacara pulcher
A stunning and relatively peaceful South American cichlid. While they possess classic cichlid traits—such as digging and territoriality during breeding—they are generally far more tolerant of tank mates than their larger cousins (like the Green Terror). They will, however, eagerly consume any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras).
Peacock Bass Temensis
Cichla temensis
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Agassiz's Dwarf Cichlid
Apistogramma agassizii
A stunning South American dwarf cichlid known for its distinct spade-shaped tail and brilliant color morphs. They are bottom-dwelling micro-predators that sift sand for food. While generally peaceful in community tanks, they are highly territorial when breeding. They thrive in soft, acidic blackwater conditions.
Parrot Cichlid
Hoplarchus psittacus
The 'True' Parrot Cichlid is a large, stunning South American species known for its brilliant emerald green coloration and distinctive dark facial markings. It should NOT be confused with the man-made 'Blood Parrot' hybrid. Originating from blackwater rivers, it is highly sensitive to water quality and requires pristine, warm, soft, and acidic water. Due to its massive adult size, it requires a massive aquarium and will consume any fish small enough to fit in its mouth.
Golden Dwarf Cichlid
Nannacara anomala
A striking South American dwarf cichlid known for its metallic sheen and fascinating behavior. While generally peaceful and excellent for community tanks, they exhibit extreme sexual dimorphism. Females are infamous for becoming hyper-aggressive 'terrors' when guarding eggs or fry, willing to attack fish many times their size.