Fin's Fish Guide
The Freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae that grows up to 11 cm.
Tropical South America, in slow-flowing and still fresh water of the Amazon basin, among bank and aquatic plants.
Description
The freshwater angelfish is a tall, disc-shaped cichlid of the family Cichlidae reaching about 15 cm in height. Characteristic are the greatly elongated, sail-like dorsal and anal fins and the thread-like pelvic fins, making the fish look much taller than long. The silvery body bears several dark vertical bars that act as camouflage among water plants. The species lives in slow-flowing and still fresh water of the Amazon basin in South America, among bankside and water plants. As an omnivore it eats insect larvae, small crustaceans and fish fry. A pair lays the eggs on a leaf or stem and both parents guard and fan them. It is one of the most popular aquarium fish in the world.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Freshwater angelfish?
The Freshwater angelfish has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly silver-grey and shows a vertical stripes pattern. Deep-bodied, disc-shaped cichlid with strongly elongated, sail-shaped dorsal and anal fins and filamentous pelvic fins; silvery with dark vertical bars.
Where does the Freshwater angelfish live?
The Freshwater angelfish lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Tropical South America, in slow-flowing and still fresh water of the Amazon basin, among bank and aquatic plants.
How big does the Freshwater angelfish get?
The Freshwater angelfish grows to a maximum of about 11 cm.
Is the Freshwater angelfish dangerous to humans?
No, the Freshwater angelfish is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Freshwater angelfish edible?
The Freshwater angelfish is not usually eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Pterophyllum
More from the family Cichlidae
Want the complete picture on the Freshwater angelfish?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Freshwater angelfish is one of 12,519 species in the app.