Manacapuru Red Neck Angelfish (Pterophyllum Scalare)

Wild, vibrant, and breathtakingly beautiful — the Manacapuru Red Neck Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a stunning wild-type angelfish variety from the Manacapuru region of Brazil, prized for its distinctive vivid red to orange-red colouration on the neck and head area. One of the most colourful and sought-after wild-type angelfish varieties, it brings a touch of Amazonian wildness to any large aquarium.

Overview

Appearance

The Manacapuru Red Neck Angelfish displays the classic wild-type angelfish silver body with dark vertical bars, but with a striking vivid red to orange-red colouration concentrated on the neck, throat, and head area — the distinctive “red neck” marking that gives this variety its name. The contrast between the silver body, dark bars, and vivid red neck creates a bold, naturally beautiful appearance that is unique to this Manacapuru locality form. The intensity of the red colouration is most vivid in well-conditioned fish.

Water Parameters & Tank Setup

• Temperature: 75 – 84°F (24 – 29°C)
• pH: 6.0 – 7.0 (slightly acidic water preferred)
• General Hardness (GH): 2 – 8 dGH
• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a pair; 55+ gallons for a group
• Substrate: Dark substrate enhances the red neck colouration
• Plants & Decor: Tall plants, driftwood, and open swimming space; Amazon-style setups suit them perfectly

Diet & Feeding

• Staple: High-quality flake food, pellets, and angelfish-specific foods
• Treats: Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and small feeder insects
• Tip: Colour-enhancing foods rich in carotenoids help maintain the vivid red neck colouration

Feed 2–3 times daily.

Compatibility & Tank Mates

Best kept with similarly sized, peaceful fish. Good tank mates include larger tetras, Corydoras, gouramis, and peaceful cichlids. Avoid very small fish and aggressive fin-nippers.

Breeding

Angelfish are open spawners and breed readily in captivity. Pairs form strong bonds and spawn on broad plant leaves or flat surfaces. Eggs hatch in 48–60 hours and fry become free-swimming within a week.

The Manacapuru Red Neck Angelfish is a wild and vibrant fish that brings Amazonian beauty and bold colour to any aquarium. A stunning and sought-after variety for the serious angelfish enthusiast.