freshwater
Freshwater Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
Deep, compressed disk-like body with extended, flowing dorsal and anal fins and elongated thread-like ventral fins. Displays vertical dark stripes over a silvery or yellowish base body coloration.
- Habitat
- Tropical freshwater habitats of the Amazon River basin i…
- Size & weight
- Reaches up to 6 inches (15 cm) in body length and can ha…
- Diet
- Omnivorous feeder consuming small crustaceans, insects,…
Identified More freshwater →
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Physical characteristics
Deep, compressed disk-like body with extended, flowing dorsal and anal fins and elongated thread-like ventral fins. Displays vertical dark stripes over a silvery or yellowish base body coloration.
Habitat & distribution
Tropical freshwater habitats of the Amazon River basin in South America, typically found in slow-moving waters, floodplains, and areas with submerged roots and dense vegetation.
Behavior
Generally peaceful yet territorial during breeding, forming loose social hierarchies and swimming with a slow, graceful, vertical posture.
Diet
Omnivorous feeder consuming small crustaceans, insects, aquatic worms, and plant matter.
Reproduction
Forms monogamous pairs, laying adhesive eggs on flat surfaces such as broad plant leaves or submerged wood, with both parents actively guarding and tending to the eggs and fry.
Ecological role
Acts as an intermediate predator in the freshwater food web, helping to control small aquatic invertebrates and micro-organisms while serving as prey for larger fish and aquatic birds.
Similar species
Other members of the Pterophyllum genus, such as Pterophyllum altum and Pterophyllum leopoldi, which can be distinguished by subtle differences in head profile, body shape, and stripe patterns.
Identification tips
Look for the distinct triangular, steeply compressed body profile coupled with elongated, filamentous pelvic fins and characteristic dark vertical striping.
Interesting facts
Freshwater angelfish belong to the Cichlid family and possess complex social behaviors and parental care strategies unusual in many other fish species.