Pterophyllum

Pterophyllum is a genus of tropical freshwater fish in the cichlid family, commonly known as angelfish. The genus presently includes three widely recognized species: Pterophyllum scalare (the common angelfish), Pterophyllum altum (altum angelfish), and Pterophyllum leopoldi (Leopard angelfish). They are native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in northern South America, where they inhabit slow-moving, vegetation-rich waters.

Architecturally, Pterophyllum species have a laterally compressed, diamond-shaped body with tall dorsal and anal fins and often elongated pelvic fins. Wild individuals are typically silvery with vertical bars, but captive breeding has produced numerous color morphs and patterns. Size varies by species: scalare generally reaches about 15 cm (6 in) total length, altum can exceed 20 cm (8 in), and leopoldi is around 15 cm.

In the wild they prefer soft, acidic to neutral water with abundant plant cover and submerged roots. They are omnivorous and opportunistic, feeding on small invertebrates and plant matter. In aquaria, they require stable conditions and generous vertical space due to their tall fins.

Care and husbandry: A tall, well-filtered tank is recommended, with a temperature of ~24–28 C (75–82 F), pH 6.0–7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. Provide a varied diet of high-quality flakes or pellets supplemented with live or frozen foods. They are relatively peaceful but can be semi-territorial, especially toward their breeding pair; keep them with suitably sized tank mates.

Reproduction: Pterophyllum species are biparental mouthbrooders. A pair lays eggs on a flat surface; both parents incubate the eggs in the mouth for about 8–12 days and later guard the free-swimming fry while offering tiny foods.