Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are offered here in a range of size grades. Choose the size that suits your aquarium and check the selected option for its current availability. A small purchase size does not mean the fish will remain small: the adult-size guide below is 15 cm.

Choosing a size

The listed grades are 1 cm, 1.5–2 cm, 2.5–3 cm, 3–3.5 cm, 4–5 cm, 5–5.5 cm, L (5.5–6 cm), XL (6–7 cm) and XXL (over 7.5 cm). These describe the purchase size, rather than the adult size. The size options do not specify a sex or an established breeding pair.

Quick facts

Aquarium setup

Freshwater angelfish should be planned around stable water and a mature aquarium: start with at least 150 litres; keep temperature around 24-28C; aim for pH 6-7.5. Add cover, open swimming space and a steady routine before introducing new livestock.

Behaviour and tank mates

Freshwater angelfish needs stocking choices that respect its behaviour: temperament is listed as semi-aggressive; it usually uses the middle area of the aquarium.

Freshwater angelfish should be matched with tank mates using the adult size, temperament, water parameters and feeding behaviour on this page. Introduce carefully and watch the first week after delivery.

Feeding and routine care

Use flakes, pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp as the feeding guide for freshwater angelfish. Offer small portions, vary the diet where appropriate, and remove uneaten food so water quality remains stable.

Health, delivery and acclimation

Only add freshwater angelfish to a mature aquarium with stable water. When your order arrives, float and acclimate slowly, keep the lights low, and avoid feeding heavily on the first day. Watch breathing, posture, colour and appetite during the first week.

Planning your order

Prepare the aquarium before ordering and check the selected size against your existing fish. Read the delivery and live-arrival information so you can receive the parcel in person and settle the fish into a prepared aquarium.

Before you order

Use the facts on this page as a final check before adding freshwater angelfish to your basket. Confirm the adult size, water conditions, feeding style and behaviour suit the aquarium you already have, then choose tank mates that will not outcompete, bully or stress it after delivery.

If you are building a new setup, let the aquarium mature first and avoid mixing livestock with very different temperature, pH or temperament needs. A careful match at the start is usually the difference between a calm community tank and avoidable losses later.

Compare angelfish forms

For another angelfish form, explore the separate Marble Angelfish care guide. Compare each listing’s size options and requirements before choosing fish for your aquarium.