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.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available 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. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
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.
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
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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. Find quality Freshwater Angelfish fish food for this species.
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.
Similar Species
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.
Green Terror
Andinoacara rivulatus
A large, incredibly colorful, and highly aggressive South American cichlid. Known for their striking metallic green/blue scales and vibrant orange or white tail margins. As their name suggests, they are highly territorial and require very careful tankmate selection, usually only coexisting with other large, robust cichlids or armored catfish in very large tanks.
Oscar
Astronotus ocellatus
A highly intelligent, large, and personable South American cichlid often described as a 'water dog'. They are notoriously messy eaters, heavy waste producers, and will enthusiastically rearrange tank decor and uproot plants. Any fish small enough to fit in their mouth will be eaten. They require excellent filtration and strict water maintenance.
Pictus Catfish
Pimelodus pictus
An extremely active, striking silver catfish with black spots and incredibly long barbels, native to South America. While peaceful toward similarly sized tank mates, they are highly effective nocturnal predators that will easily swallow small fish (like Neon Tetras) whole. They are scaleless and possess sharp pectoral spines that can easily become entangled in aquarium nets.
Jaguar Cichlid
Parachromis managuensis
A massive, apex predator from Central America known for its striking jaguar-like pattern and extreme aggression. Jaguars are highly intelligent, wet-pet fish but require enormous aquariums and heavy filtration. They will consume any fish that fits in their mouth and aggressively rearrange their environment.
Uaru
Uaru amphiacanthoides
A large, relatively peaceful but highly gregarious South American cichlid. Often kept with Discus due to their shared need for very warm, pristine, acidic water. They are notorious herbivores that will devour almost any aquatic plant, and they actually require grazing on driftwood for proper digestion. They must be kept in groups.