Freshwater angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
intermediate careOverview
The freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a graceful, disc-shaped cichlid and a long-time community favourite. Tall trailing fins and a calm glide make it a superb centrepiece — but two facts catch new keepers out: angelfish grow large and tall, and they are cichlids that will eat small fish. Plan around both and they are rewarding, long-lived fish.
Tank & water
Angelfish need height, not just volume — at least 150 litres (40 gallons) in a tall tank around 45 cm high for a small group.
- Temperature: 24–28 °C, held steady with a good heater; a bigger tank is easier to buy for in our heater guide.
- Water: pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard. Check parameters with a test kit.
- Space and structure: tall plants and driftwood mimic their flooded-forest home and break sightlines.
- Upkeep: a mature filter and steady water changes.
Feeding
Angelfish are omnivores with hearty appetites. Feed a quality flake or pellet staple plus frequent frozen or live bloodworm, brine shrimp and daphnia for colour and condition. Vary the diet and feed small amounts once or twice daily; avoid overfeeding a tall, deep tank where waste settles.
Tankmates
Pick fish too large to be eaten but too peaceful to shred angel fins. Good matches include larger tetras, rasboras, boesemani rainbowfish, corydoras and peaceful Bolivian rams. Avoid fin-nippers such as tiger barbs, and avoid tiny fish and shrimp that become snacks. For stocking limits, see how many fish in an aquarium.
Freshwater angelfish — frequently asked questions
Why do angelfish need a tall tank?
Angelfish are laterally compressed and grow as tall as they are long — up to about 20 cm from fin tip to fin tip. A tall tank of at least 45 cm high lets them stretch their fins and swim naturally. A short, shallow tank cramps them and can bend their posture.
Will angelfish eat other fish?
Yes, they can. Angelfish are cichlids and will eat anything that fits in their mouth, so tiny fish like neon tetras and shrimp are often treated as food, especially as the angels mature. Choose tankmates too large to swallow but too peaceful to nip their long fins.
Are angelfish aggressive?
They are semi-aggressive and become territorial as they pair off and breed. A group of juveniles usually sorts into pairs, and a bonded pair can dominate a tank at spawning time. Give them space and plants, and watch for bullying within the group.
Found your model? Buy it at the right price.
UniverTrack tracks the real price of your aquarium gear across several retailers, spots fake discounts and warns you when it's genuinely the right moment to buy — with an AI assistant to guide you.