Description

Philippines Blue Angel (Pterophyllum scalare)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare

• Common Names: Philippines Blue Angel, Blue Philippine Angelfish, Blue Veil Angel

• Family: Cichlidae

• Order: Cichliformes

• Origin: Selectively bred in the Philippines from wild Amazonian Pterophyllum scalare strains — known for their intense metallic blue sheen.

• Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches) body length; 20–25 cm (8–10 inches) tall including fins.

• Lifespan: 8 – 10 years

• Tank Zone: Mid to upper levels

🌊 Water Parameters

• Temperature: 25 – 29°C (77 – 84°F)

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5

• Hardness: 3 – 10 dGH

• TDS: 100 – 250 ppm

🐟 Characteristics

• Body Shape: Tall, triangular body with long, graceful fins.

• Coloration: Striking iridescent blue body with a silvery metallic sheen; may show faint vertical lines under stress.

• Fins: Elongated, veil-like fins that flow elegantly; males often have slightly longer dorsal and anal fins.

• Behavior: Peaceful yet territorial during breeding; intelligent and responsive to owners.

• Unique Feature: Selective breeding gives this variety an extra-deep electric blue glow, more intense than standard blue angels.

🍽️ Diet

• Type: Omnivorous

• Diet: Flake and pellet foods, frozen or live treats like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.

• Feeding Frequency: Twice daily in small portions.

• Tip: Feed color-enhancing foods rich in spirulina or carotenoids to maintain their vivid blue shine.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 120 liters (30 gallons) for a pair; 200+ liters for a group.

• Filtration: Efficient with gentle flow; they prefer calm water.

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.

• Decor: Vertical plants, driftwood, and tall ornaments to provide cover.

• Lighting: Soft to moderate; enhances blue reflection.

• Water Change: 25–30% weekly for optimal health.

👥 Social Behavior

• Nature: Generally peaceful; suitable for community tanks with non-aggressive fish.

• Tank Mates: Compatible with Corydoras, peaceful Barbs, Gouramis, Rainbowfish, and medium-sized Tetras.

• Avoid: Fin-nippers or overly aggressive Cichlids.

• Activity: Graceful, slow-moving swimmers; thrive in calm, well-planted tanks.

✅ Do’s
• Maintain warm, stable water conditions.
• Provide vertical hiding and breeding spaces.
• Use subdued lighting to accentuate color.

❌ Don’ts
• Don’t house with fin-nippers like Tiger Barbs.
• Avoid sudden water parameter changes.
• Don’t overcrowd — they need open swimming space.

⭐ Quick Tip:
The Philippines Blue Angel is a highly sought-after variant of the freshwater angelfish, admired for its vibrant metallic blue hue and elegant movement. A perfect centerpiece for planted aquariums, combining beauty, grace, and peaceful temperament.