PisciDex Species Profile
Angelfish
Tall-bodied freshwater cichlid popular in larger planted aquariums.
Pterophyllum scalare
Cichlidae | South America | Amazon basin
Core Requirements
Tank Size
29 gallons minimum
Adult Size
6 inches
Group Size
Solo/bonded pair
Bioload
6/10
Water Parameters
Temperature
76-82 F
pH
6.5-7.5
Plant Safe
Yes
Invert Safe
No
Data Confidence
high
Temperature note: Recommended and tolerated temperature ranges currently match the primary care profile.
Care Warnings
- Can be kept solo or as a bonded pair, but random adult pairs may fight.
- Adult angelfish may eat small slender fish such as neon-sized tetras.
Behavior & Husbandry
Temperament
Semi-Aggressive
Aggression
5/10
Diet
Omnivore
Difficulty
Intermediate
Lifespan
10 years
Breeding
Intermediate
Schooling
No
Compatibility Tags
CommunityLarge TankSemi AggressiveTerritorialMid WaterPlant SafeSoftwater
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Species Compatibility
Database-driven compatibility notes for planning community aquariums.