While we make every effort to ensure that our online stock levels are accurate and up to date, some products—particularly those that are perishable or subject to daily changes—may vary in availability. This includes livestock, fish, corals, and both fresh and frozen foods. Due to the nature of these items and their dependence on factors such as shipment schedules, health status, and in-store demand, availability can change rapidly and may not always be reflected in real time on our website.
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Our friendly team will be happy to assist and provide the most up-to-date information on current stock.
Elegant, intelligent, and instantly recognisable, the Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a long-time favourite among aquarists for its striking triangular profile, flowing fins, and calm yet commanding presence. Originating from the slow-moving rivers and floodplains of the Amazon Basin, this cichlid brings a touch of the wild to community tanks, all while maintaining an air of refined beauty.
Species: Pterophyllum scalare
Common Names: Freshwater Angelfish, Scalare Angelfish
Origin: Amazon River Basin – Peru, Brazil, Colombia
Light Requirements: Moderate
Diet: Omnivorous – enjoys high-quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and the occasional veggie matter like zucchini or spinach
Maximum Size: 12–15 cm body length; up to 20–25 cm tall including fins
Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can be territorial when breeding
Care Level: Easy to moderate
Aquarium Setup:
Best kept in aquariums of 120 litres or more, with tall dimensions to accommodate their vertical fin span. Angelfish thrive in planted tanks with driftwood, tall plants, and a gentle current. They prefer warm, soft, slightly acidic to neutral water, with plenty of cover and vertical structures. Avoid sharp décor to protect their long, delicate fins.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH: 6.5–7.5
Hardness: 4–12 dGH
Growth and Maintenance:
Pterophyllum scalare are relatively hardy and adapt well to most stable, well-maintained aquariums. With the right care, they can live 8–10 years or more. Angelfish are intelligent and often recognise their keepers. They can become territorial during spawning, especially if kept in pairs, but are generally peaceful in larger groups or with suitable tankmates.
Care Tips:
✔ Provide tall tanks with calm flow and gentle filtration
✔ Keep singly, in peaceful groups, or bonded breeding pairs
✔ Offer a varied, colour-enhancing diet for health and vibrancy
✔ Avoid housing with fin-nippers or overly aggressive tankmates
✔ Ensure consistent water quality to prevent stress-related illness
Compatibility:
Well-suited to peaceful community tanks with larger tetras (rummy-nose, black phantom), Corydoras, peaceful gouramis, and dwarf rainbowfish. Avoid very small fish (like neon tetras) which may become prey once angelfish reach full size. Do not house with aggressive cichlids.
Availability:
Readily available in the Australian aquarium trade in a wide range of colour morphs and fin types, including marble, koi, veil-tail, and platinum varieties. Ask us about current availability, tankmate suggestions, or compatible planted tank options.
Disclaimer:
"Angelfish are peaceful but may show territorial behaviour, particularly during breeding. Provide sufficient space, structure, and group dynamics to reduce aggression."