Green Avatar Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

Green Avatar Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) — Iridescent Elegance for the Planted Aquarium

The Green Avatar Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a stunning colour variant of the classic freshwater angelfish, prized for its shimmering blend of cool green and electric blue iridescence that shifts and glows under aquarium lighting. With its iconic triangular profile, flowing fins, and graceful movement, this is a centrepiece fish that commands attention in any mid-to-large planted aquarium.

A Living Prism

Under the right lighting, the Green Avatar Angelfish is nothing short of spectacular. Its scales catch and refract light in shifting hues of teal, jade, and cobalt — a dynamic, ever-changing display that makes it one of the most visually rewarding angelfish variants available. Pair it with lush green planting and dark substrate to make those iridescent tones truly pop.

Care Profile

• Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare
• Origin: Amazon Basin, South America — slow-moving rivers and flooded forests
• Size: Up to 15 cm body length; up to 25 cm tall including fins
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive; generally peaceful with similarly sized tankmates but may prey on very small fish
• Diet: Omnivore — accepts high-quality flake, pellet, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, and live foods
• Water Temperature: 24–30°C
• pH: 6.0–7.5 (prefers soft, slightly acidic water)
• Tank Size: Minimum 150L; taller tanks preferred to accommodate their vertical fin span
• Note: Avoid housing with fin-nipping species such as tiger barbs or very small nano fish

Aquascape Compatibility

The Green Avatar Angelfish thrives in tall, heavily planted aquariums with driftwood, broad-leaved plants such as Amazon swords and Anubias, and open swimming space in the midwater column. It pairs beautifully with other South American species — corydoras, tetras, and dwarf cichlids — in a biotope-inspired setup. Its vertical body shape and flowing fins make it a natural focal point in any aquascape.

Shimmering, statuesque, and endlessly graceful — the Green Avatar Angelfish is the iridescent jewel your planted aquarium has been waiting for.