Angelfish

• ExerciseLow

  A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• GroomingEasy tank upkeep

  No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment10–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Ich (white spot) · Fin rot · Swim bladder disorder

The angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a South American cichlid from the slow, densely vegetated rivers and flooded forests of the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Its laterally compressed, disc-shaped body stands about 15 cm tall and up to 20 cm long with fins, and it lives 10–12 years. In the wild its stripes camouflage it among vertical roots and stems. Because of their height, angelfish need a tall tank of at least 120 litres, warmed to 24–28°C with a pH of 6.0–7.5. They swim in the mid-water and appreciate tall plants, driftwood and open swimming lanes. Juveniles shoal, but adults form territorial breeding pairs and can bully smaller tankmates, so plan stocking carefully. Angelfish are omnivores that thrive on quality flake and pellets rotated with frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp. Their territorial streak means they may eat neon tetras and nip slow, long-finned fish, so choose robust mid-sized companions. Watch for ich, fin rot and hexamita (hole-in-the-head); clean water, good diet and low stress keep these regal fish healthy.

• How active is a Angelfish?

  Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• How much maintenance does a Angelfish need?

  Easy tank upkeep. No grooming here — steady water quality and routine tank care do it.

• What tank size does a Angelfish need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Angelfish a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Angelfish live?

  10–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Angelfish?

  Keep an eye out for Ich (white spot), Fin rot, Swim bladder disorder. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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