Tricolor Angelfish (Pterophyllum Scalare)

 Species Details & Characteristics

• Name Meaning: The genus name Pterophyllum comes from Greek, meaning "leaf-like fin," describing their unique shape. The species name scalare is Latin, meaning "ladder," which refers to the black stripes on their body.

• Appearance: They have a distinct, disc-shaped body that is laterally compressed, with long, flowing dorsal and anal fins. Wild-type specimens are silver-gray with four prominent vertical black bars. The intensity of these bars can change based on the fish's mood.

• Sexing: It is very difficult to tell males and females apart visually outside of breeding season. During breeding, females develop a breeding tube (ovipositor) that is larger and blunter than the male's.

• Interesting Behavior: Angelfish engage in a social behavior called "mouth-fighting" or "jaw-locking," which establishes hierarchy without causing serious injury.

 Aquarium Setup & Care

• Tank Size: Due to their height, a tall tank is necessary. A minimum height of 20 inches (50 cm) is recommended. For a group, a tank length of 48 inches (120 cm) or more is ideal.

• Aquascaping: They thrive in planted tanks with broad-leaved plants like Amazon Swords or Vallisneria, which mimic their natural habitat. Driftwood and rocks can provide hiding spots. Always leave open swimming areas.

• Water Quality: While adaptable, they need clean, well-filtered water. Regular water changes are essential to prevent disease.

• Tank Mates: Choose tank mates carefully. Avoid very small fish (like neon tetras) that will be eaten, and fin-nippers (like tiger barbs). Good companions include larger tetras, peaceful cichlids, corydoras catfish, and plecos.

 Diet & Breeding

• Feeding: They are not picky eaters. A high-quality flake or cichlid pellet should be the staple. Supplement this with frozen or live foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp for optimal health and color.

• Breeding: Angelfish are monogamous and form pair bonds. They are substrate spawners that prefer to lay their eggs on a vertical surface (like a broad leaf, slate, or piece of driftwood). Parents will guard the eggs and the resulting fry, fanning them with their fins to provide oxygen.