Golden Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

Golden Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

The Golden Angelfish is a classic and elegant variant of Pterophyllum scalare, prized for its warm golden-yellow coloration and clean, refined appearance. Ranging from soft buttery tones to deeper metallic gold, this variety brings a bright yet natural look to any freshwater aquarium.

Unlike heavily patterned strains, the Golden Angelfish often displays a more uniform body color with subtle shading and occasional faint markings, allowing its coloration and graceful form to take center stage. Its tall body and flowing fins create a calm, gliding presence that contrasts beautifully against plants and darker tank setups.

Despite their peaceful look, Golden Angelfish are still cichlids with semi-aggressive tendencies and mild predatory instincts, particularly toward smaller tank mates.

Care & Husbandry

Tank Size:
A minimum of 29 gallons is suitable for a single angelfish, though 40+ gallons is recommended for pairs or community setups. Taller aquariums are preferred to support their vertical growth and finnage.

Diet:
Omnivorous and easy to feed, but thrives on a varied diet:

• High-quality cichlid pellets or flakes (staple diet)
• Frozen foods such as bloodworms, mysis shrimp, and brine shrimp
• Live foods (blackworms, feeder shrimp) for enrichment and conditioning
• Occasional spirulina or vegetable-based foods for balance

Feed 1–2 times daily in moderate portions.

Tank Mates:
Select tank mates carefully due to their semi-aggressive nature:

• Compatible: Larger tetras, gouramis, rainbowfish, Corydoras, plecos, and other semi-peaceful species
• Use Caution: Other angelfish (pairing and territorial behavior may occur), certain barbs depending on temperament
• Avoid: Small fish (neon tetras, guppies), shrimp, and fin-nipping species (tiger barbs, serpae tetras)

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 76–82°F
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Maintain clean, stable water with regular water changes