Scientific Name: Pterophyllum Scalare
Common Names: Angelfish, Scalare Angelfish
Temperament: Peaceful (can become territorial during breeding)
Care Level: Moderate
Life Span: 10 to 12 years on average
Species Overview and Background:
- The Angelfish species (Pterophyllum Scalare) was first discovered in the Amazon River basin in South America. It has a wide distribution throughout the Amazon, Orinoco, and Essequibo river systems, spanning countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela.
- In their natural habitat, Angelfish inhabit slow-moving rivers, flooded forests, and lagoons. They are commonly found in areas with dense vegetation, such as submerged roots, fallen trees, and aquatic plants. They often live together with others of the same species.
- In the wild, Angelfish feed on a variety of small invertebrates, including insects, crustaceans, and worms. They may also consume plant matter, such as algae and aquatic vegetation.
- Angelfish are generally peaceful, but they can become territorial and aggressive during breeding. They are known to pair up and form monogamous relationships. They prefer to live in small groups or pairs rather than large schools.
- Angelfish were introduced to the aquarium hobby in the early 20th century, with the first successful captive breeding reported in the 1930s. They quickly gained popularity among hobbyists due to their striking appearance and graceful swimming behaviour.
- Angelfish have become famous in the hobby for their unique shape, elegant fins, and vibrant coloration. They are known for their triangular body shape, long dorsal and anal fins, and extended ventral fins. They come in various colour variations, including silver, black, gold, and various patterns such as marble and veil.
- Angelfish are considered common in the aquarium hobby and are readily available in pet stores and from breeders.
- The ideal minimum group size for Angelfish in a tank is a pair, as they form strong bonds with their chosen mates. A tank size of at least 75 litres (20 gallons) is recommended for a pair of Angelfish.
- The Angelfish (Pterophyllum Scalare) is not a cross of other species. The first captive-bred Angelfish appeared in the 1930s, and the breeding efforts were pioneered by various aquarists.
General Water Parameters:
- pH Range: 6.5 to 7.5
- Temperature Range: 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F)
- GH Range: 3 to 8
- KH Range: 3 to 5
- TDS Range: 100 to 250 ppm
Colour & Appearance:
- Angelfish have a distinctive triangular body shape, with long, flowing fins. They can grow up to 15 to 20 centimetres (6 to 8 inches) in height and have a wingspan of about 15 to 18 centimetres (6 to 7 inches).
- The base coloration of Angelfish can vary, ranging from silver to black, with some individuals displaying a golden or bluish hue. They may also have various patterns, such as stripes or marbling, which can be enhanced or reduced depending on genetics and selective breeding.
- There are several recognized colour variations of Angelfish, including the standard silver, black, and gold varieties. Additionally, there are more elaborate varieties such as koi, marble, and veil, which exhibit unique patterns and fin shapes.
Care and Requirements:
- Angelfish are considered moderate in terms of care requirements. While they are not overly demanding, they do require specific conditions to thrive.
- Provide a well-maintained aquarium with stable water parameters within the recommended ranges. Regular water testing and maintenance are essential to ensure optimal conditions for Angelfish.
- Angelfish are omnivorous and have a diverse diet. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of high-quality flake or pellet food formulated for cichlids. Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and small insects.
- It is important to provide a varied diet to ensure proper nutrition and promote optimal health.
- Angelfish are generally hardy, but they can be sensitive to poor water quality. Maintain good filtration and perform regular water changes to keep the water clean and free from toxins.
- Angelfish are diurnal and active during the day. They enjoy exploring their environment and may display interesting behaviours such as fin flaring and courtship rituals.
- While they do not spend all their time hiding, Angelfish appreciate the presence of plants, driftwood, and other decorations in the aquarium. These provide them with shelter, spawning sites, and areas to establish territories.
- Angelfish prefer a moderate water flow in their tank. A gentle water current created by a filter, or a circulation pump is sufficient. Avoid strong water flow, as it may stress the fish and make swimming difficult for them.
- Angelfish may graze on microorganisms and biofilm present on tank surfaces and plants. This natural behaviour helps supplement their diet and provides enrichment.
Diet:
- Angelfish have a varied diet in the wild, and it is important to replicate this diversity in their aquarium diet.
- Offer high-quality flake or pellet food specifically formulated for cichlids as the staple diet. Look for brands like Hikari Cichlid Gold, TetraCichlid, or New Life Spectrum Cichlid Formula.
- Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and small insects. These can be provided as occasional treats to enhance their diet and provide additional nutrients.
- Angelfish may also nibble on vegetable matter. You can offer blanched spinach or lettuce leaves as a source of plant material.
Ideal Tank Setup:
- Tank size: A minimum tank size of 75 litres (20 gallons) is recommended for a pair of Angelfish. Larger tanks provide more swimming space and can accommodate additional tankmates.
- Substrate: Use fine-grained substrates like sand or smooth gravel to mimic their natural environment. Avoid sharp or coarse substrates that may injure their delicate fins.
- Plants: Angelfish appreciate the presence of live plants in the aquarium. Species such as Amazon sword, Java fern, and Vallisneria provide cover, hiding spots, and help create a natural-looking environment. Ensure that the plants are securely anchored to avoid uprooting.
- Decorations: Provide driftwood or branches to create vertical structures and hiding places. Rocks and caves can also be added to create additional territories for the fish.
- Lighting: Angelfish prefer subdued lighting conditions. Use low to moderate intensity aquarium lights or provide floating plants to create diffused lighting.
- Filtration: A good filtration system is essential to maintain water quality. Use a reliable filter that provides mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration. Canister filters or hang-on-back filters are popular choices for Angelfish tanks.
- Water flow: Angelfish prefer a moderate water flow. Ensure the filter or circulation pump does not create a strong current, as it may stress the fish.
Compatible Tankmates:
- Angelfish can coexist with a variety of tankmates, but caution should be exercised when choosing companions. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
- Suitable tankmates for Angelfish include peaceful community fish such as tetras (e.g., neon tetras, cardinal tetras), rasboras, peaceful barbs, gouramis, corydoras catfish, and peaceful dwarf cichlids like Apistogramma species.
- Avoid keeping them with large, aggressive cichlids, as they may harass or intimidate the Angelfish.
- It's important to consider the adult size and activity level of the tankmates. Ensure that the tank is spacious enough to accommodate all the fish comfortably and provide ample swimming space.
Sexing:
- Sexing Angelfish can be challenging, especially in young individuals. However, there are some subtle differences that can help differentiate between males and females:
- Males generally have a more pointed and elongated dorsal fin compared to females.
- Females tend to have a rounder and fuller body shape, especially when they are ready to spawn.
- During breeding, both males and females develop a small tube-like structure called a papilla. In males, the papilla is pointed and thicker, while in females, it is rounder and more blunt.
Breeding:
- Breeding Angelfish in a hobbyist's aquarium is possible and can be a rewarding experience. To encourage successful breeding, provide the following conditions:
- A separate breeding tank with a capacity of at least 75 litres (20 gallons).
- Maintain pristine water conditions with regular water changes to stimulate spawning behaviour.
- Increase the temperature slightly to around 28°C (82°F) to simulate the warmer conditions that trigger breeding.
- Provide flat or vertical surfaces for the fish to lay their eggs. This can be accomplished by adding broad-leaved plants, spawning cones, or pieces of slate.
- Condition the breeding pair with a nutritious diet of live and frozen foods to ensure their reproductive health.
- Once the pair forms a bond and begins displaying courtship behaviour (e.g., lip locking, fin flaring), it is a sign that they are ready to spawn.
- The female will lay adhesive eggs on the chosen surface, and the male will fertilize them.
- After spawning, the parents may guard and fan the eggs to provide oxygen until they hatch, usually within 48 to 72 hours.
- Once the fry hatch, they can be fed with commercially available liquid fry food or newly hatched brine shrimp.
- It is advisable to separate the fry from the parents and provide them with their own rearing tank to ensure their survival.
Other Considerations:
- When introducing Angelfish to a new aquarium, it is important to acclimate them slowly to avoid stress. Float the sealed bag containing the fish in the aquarium for about 15-20 minutes to equalize the temperature. Then, open the bag and gradually add small amounts of aquarium water to the bag over the course of 30 minutes. Finally, use a net to transfer the fish gently into the tank.
- Avoid sudden changes in water parameters or temperature, as this can cause stress and lead to health issues.
Monitor the behaviour and health of your Angelfish regularly. Look out for signs of illness such as loss of appetite, abnormal swimming behaviour, or changes in coloration. If any issues are observed, take appropriate action to address them, such as adjusting water parameters, treating diseases, or consulting with a veterinarian or experienced aquarist.
- Angelfish can be prone to certain health conditions, including bacterial or fungal infections, parasitic infestations, and swim bladder issues. Providing a healthy environment, proper nutrition, and regular maintenance can help prevent these problems.
- It is important to note that Angelfish may exhibit aggressive behaviour during breeding or when establishing territories. Keep an eye on their interactions and provide ample space and hiding spots to reduce aggression.
- Avoid overcrowding the tank, as it can lead to increased stress and aggression among the fish. Follow appropriate stocking guidelines to ensure the well-being of all tank inhabitants.
- Regular maintenance, including water changes, filter cleaning, and substrate vacuuming, is essential for the overall health and longevity of Angelfish.
- Take care when handling Angelfish, as their delicate fins can be easily damaged. Use a soft net or your hands wetted with aquarium water to minimize stress and potential injuries.
- Lastly, remember that Angelfish have a relatively long lifespan, and they require a long-term commitment. Ensure that you are prepared to provide care for them throughout their lifespan, which can be up to 10 to 12 years with proper care.
In conclusion, Angelfish (Pterophyllum Scalare) are captivating and popular aquarium fish known for their graceful appearance and vibrant coloration. With proper care and attention to their specific needs, Angelfish can thrive in a home aquarium. Provide a well-maintained tank with stable water parameters, a balanced diet, and suitable tankmates. Creating a natural and stimulating environment with plants, driftwood, and an appropriate tank setup will enhance their well-being. Breeding Angelfish is also possible in a hobbyist's aquarium by providing the right conditions and closely monitoring their behaviours. Remember to introduce them carefully into a new aquarium and to be attentive to their health and behaviour throughout their lifespan. With proper care, Angelfish can bring beauty and elegance to any aquarium.