Assorted Angelfish

Freshwater angelfish, scientifically named Pterophyllum scalare, are elegant and popular aquarium pets known for their unique, triangular shape and graceful swimming style. They originate from the slow-moving waters of the Amazon River Basin in South America. Their long, flowing fins and wide variety of color patterns ranging from silver to black, gold, and even marbled, make them a striking addition to any aquarium.

Just like clown loaches, angelfish thrive in soft, acidic waters. They prefer a pH under 7, ideally between 6.0 and 6.5. Water hardness should be kept between 3 and 8 dH. The water temperature should be maintained between 78 to 84°F (25 to 29°C).

Angelfish are relatively large for aquarium fish, and can grow up to 6 inches in length and 8 inches in height (including the fins), so they require a spacious tank. A 20-gallon tank could house a pair, but a larger tank would be better, especially if you plan to keep a group.

The tank should also contain plenty of plants and hiding places to mimic their natural habitat and help them feel secure. However, be sure to leave plenty of open space for swimming.

As for diet, angelfish are omnivorous. They do well on a diet of high-quality flake food, supplemented with live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms.

Angelfish are social creatures and do well in groups, but they can be semi-aggressive, especially around spawning time. It's important to choose tank mates carefully to avoid conflicts.

Maintaining clean water is crucial for the health of your angelfish. Regular water changes, at least once a week, can help prevent the buildup of harmful chemicals.

With the appropriate care and environment, freshwater angelfish can be a rewarding pet for any aquarium hobbyist, displaying both beauty and interesting behaviors.