Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare

UncommonCichlidaeHarmless

ID points

Extremely flattened, triangular body
Dorsal and anal fins drawn out into long points above and below
Pelvic fins turned into two long filaments

Basics

Family: Cichlidae
Length: 12–15 cm
Depth: 0-5 m
Regions: Estuary & freshwater
Distribution: Amazon basin of South America (freshwater)
Habitat: Slow, plant-filled Amazon rivers
Diet: Small fish, insect larvae

Easily confused with

ArcherfishFour to six wedge-shaped black bars on silvery white flanks

BatfishAlmost circular body, extremely flattened

ButterflyfishFlattened disc-shaped body with a protruding snout

Fun fact

Once a pair of angelfish has formed, the two stay together for a long time, guarding their eggs and their fry side by side. They are one of the clearest examples of parental care among fish.

Open in the field guide - stacking filters and ID training >