Overview

The Striped Silver Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is the classic wild-type form of the popular freshwater angelfish. Recognised by its elegant silver body and bold vertical black stripes, this species is a graceful centrepiece fish for planted tropical aquariums.

Origin: Amazon Basin, South America

Size: Body length 12–15 cm; total height including fins up to 20 cm

Lifespan: 8–12 years with proper care

Temperament: Semi-aggressive, especially when breeding

General Appearance

This angelfish features a bright silver body with distinctive vertical black bands that help it blend among submerged roots and plants in its natural habitat. The tall triangular shape formed by the dorsal and anal fins gives the fish its iconic silhouette.

Males and females look similar, although mature males may develop slightly broader foreheads.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 25–28°C
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: 3–10 dGH
• Water Movement: Gentle to moderate

Stable water conditions and good filtration are essential for maintaining healthy angelfish.

Tank Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 150 litres for a pair; 200+ litres for a group
• Tank Height: Important due to their tall body shape
• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel
• Plants: Amazon swords, Vallisneria, and floating plants
• Décor: Driftwood and vertical structures
• Filtration: Reliable filtration with gentle flow

Arrange plants and décor along the edges while leaving open swimming space in the centre of the aquarium.

Diet

Striped Silver Angelfish are omnivorous and benefit from a varied diet:

• High-quality tropical pellets or flakes
• Frozen foods such as bloodworms, mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp
• Occasional live foods to encourage natural behaviour

A varied diet helps maintain good health and strong colouration.

Behaviour and Compatibility

Angelfish are generally peaceful when young but can become territorial as they mature.

• Compatible with medium-sized peaceful fish such as larger tetras, rainbowfish, and Corydoras
• Avoid very small fish that may be eaten
• Avoid fin-nipping species such as tiger barbs

Keeping a group of juveniles allows natural pairs to form as they mature.

Breeding

Angelfish are egg layers and form monogamous pairs:

• Eggs are laid on vertical surfaces such as plant leaves or aquarium glass
• Both parents usually guard and fan the eggs
• Eggs hatch in 2–3 days depending on temperature
• Fry become free-swimming after about a week

Parents may raise the fry successfully in peaceful aquariums, though some breeders remove eggs for controlled hatching.

Conclusion

The Striped Silver Angelfish is a timeless aquarium favourite that combines elegance with fascinating behaviour. With adequate tank height, stable water conditions, and suitable tankmates, this species becomes a beautiful centrepiece in planted tropical aquariums.