Description

Golden Angel (Pterophyllum scalare)

📌 Basic Info

• Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare

• Common Names: Golden Angel, Gold Angelfish, Yellow Angelfish

• Family: Cichlidae

• Order: Cichliformes

• Origin: Selectively bred from wild Amazonian Pterophyllum scalare (native to Peru, Brazil, and Colombia) — developed for its bright golden coloration and metallic sheen.

• Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches) in 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, laterally compressed body with long, flowing fins.

• Coloration: Brilliant golden-yellow hue that can vary from soft champagne gold to deep metallic yellow; often shows subtle silver undertones near the head.

• Fins: Long, veil-like fins that shimmer with a golden gloss.

• Behavior: Peaceful and elegant swimmer; may show mild territorial behavior when spawning.

• Unique Feature: Selective breeding has enhanced the intensity of gold pigment, making this variant one of the brightest among angelfish.

🍽️ Diet

• Type: Omnivorous

• Diet: Flake or pellet food, supplemented with live or frozen items such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

• Feeding Frequency: Twice daily in small portions.

• Tip: Feed high-quality color-enhancing foods to maintain vibrant golden tones.

🛠️ Maintenance

• Tank Size: Minimum 120 liters (30 gallons) for a pair; larger tanks for groups.

• Filtration: Gentle, efficient filtration — avoids strong current.

• Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.

• Decor: Driftwood, vertical plants, and open swimming space.

• Lighting: Moderate to bright; enhances the golden shine.

• Water Change: 25–30% weekly to maintain clarity and color vibrancy.

👥 Social Behavior

• Nature: Generally peaceful; suitable for community tanks with calm species.

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

• Avoid: Fin-nippers or overly aggressive cichlids.

• Activity: Calm, elegant swimmer; enjoys planted, quiet environments.

✅ Do’s
• Maintain stable, warm water conditions.
• Provide natural decor with vertical hiding spots.
• Use balanced lighting to highlight the golden hue.

❌ Don’ts
• Don’t mix with fin-nipping species.
• Avoid sudden water parameter changes.
• Don’t overcrowd — they need open swimming space.

⭐ Quick Tip:
The Golden Angel is a symbol of beauty and tranquility in freshwater aquariums. Its shimmering yellow-gold body and graceful movements make it a radiant centerpiece for community setups. Hardy, peaceful, and visually striking — perfect for both beginner and experienced aquarists.