If we are looking for a tropical fish with elegant appearance and graceful movements, the giant angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) must be on the list. Its posture is like a ribbon fluttering in the wind, so it is nicknamed "angel fish".

It is the most common species of the angelfish genus, native to the Amazon River Basin in South America, and is a star member of many home aquariums.

Laterally flattened body and flowing fins: beauty of appearance

The biggest feature of the giant angelfish is its tall and laterally flattened body, coupled with dorsal and ventral fins that spread like wings, making it like an elegant dancer in the water. The grown-up fish can reach 18 cm in height, and it looks more slender and agile when the fins are spread. Common colors include silver gray, gold, black stripes, etc. There are also many artificially cultivated spotted or marbled varieties on the market, which have extremely high ornamental value.

Quiet personality from the rainforest

As we know, the giant angelfish comes from the Amazon tributaries with slow currents and dim light. Therefore, it has a relatively gentle personality, likes to swim slowly, and moves freely among the water plants. However, grown-up fish may become somewhat territorial during the breeding season, especially between male fish, and there will be slight expulsion behavior.

Water quality requirements: both delicate and worthwhile

For the healthy growth of giant angelfish, the water temperature should be controlled between 26°C and 28°C, which is warm. In terms of water quality, it likes an environment that is “slightly acidic (pH 6.5~7.0)”, and the water body needs to be kept clean and stable. We recommend using an aquarium with a heater and a filter, and changing the water regularly to avoid stress reactions caused by sudden changes in water quality.

Home breeding advice: space and matching are key

Giant angelfish are large in size and should not be mixed with fish that are too small or move too fast. It is best to choose fish of similar size and gentle personality as companions, such as red and green lights, pearl vests, etc. In addition, to avoid fighting, it is best not to keep too many males in one tank. A single pair or one male and two females is a more ideal combination.

Diet management: balanced nutrition is essential

They are omnivorous fish and like animal baits, such as bloodworms, water fleas, etc., and can also accept artificial fish food. In order to promote bright color and healthy growth, we recommend alternating between live bait and dry feed, and keep feeding at regular times and quantities every day. Remember not to overfeed to avoid deterioration of water quality.

Reproduction behavior: Parents participate together

When the great angelfish mature, they will form a pairing relationship. Before spawning, the male and female fish will clean the leaf or stone surface together, and then the female fish will lay eggs and the male fish will follow to fertilize. The fertilized eggs are usually attached to water plants, and the parents take turns to guard and fan the water for ventilation. It takes about 2-3 days to hatch, but we need to be aware that once the young fish hatch, the big fish may eat them by mistake, so it is best to separate the parent fish and raise them in a tank in time.

Who is suitable for raising?

Giant angelfish are sensitive to water quality and environmental changes, and are more suitable for friends with certain fish-raising experience. It is not suitable for too small aquariums, nor should it be frequently changed. But as long as we are willing to spend time to arrange a stable water world, they will bring extremely high ornamental value.

Lykkers, would you raise an "angel"?

Giant angelfish are not only beautiful in appearance, but also have rich behavioral characteristics and interactivity. They are the fascinating focus of the family aquarium. But behind the elegance is also a "delicate" thing, which requires our careful care and careful management.

Lykkers, are you also tempted? If you have raised angelfish before, please share your experience; if you are planning to get into it, you might as well tell us your aquarium plan. Let us work together to protect these "angels" in the water and bring the beauty of the rainforest into our lives.