Angelfish

The Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a frequently-misunderstood animal, and often seems to be purchased by new aquarists with little appreciation of its true nature.

A medium-sized South American cichlid, the angel is really only suitable for the medium-sized community or larger, or for species and biotope set-ups. All-too-frequently bought as a small specimen, the fish soon grows up to be a predator of small fishes, as is its nature. A semi-shoaling fish, they are forced to live in close proximity in the wild during the dry seasons, but during the wet season are not restricted and become less tolerant. Thus, it can prove highly aggressive and territorial when an adult pair have formed a bond and want to start breeding. I suggest keeping either a single specimen, a pair ( and be prepared to separate them if they turn out to be incompatible) or a large shoal of six-plus in a roomy tank. Much like three-spot gouramis, a bit of pecking order squabbling is to be expected.

At all costs, keep these fish away from small fish such as neon tetras or similar! These fish are not for everyone, and some discretion is advised when thinking about buying them.