Description
Pinoy Angel (Pterophyllum scalare “Pinoy”)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare “Pinoy”
Common Names: Pinoy Angelfish, Pinoy Blue Angel, Philippine Blue Angel
Family: Cichlidae
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Captive-bred hybrid (developed from dark and blue strains of P. scalare, originally in the Philippines)
Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches)
Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Middle
🌊 Water Parameters
Temperature: 26 – 30°C (79 – 86°F)
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Hardness: 3 – 10 dGH
🐟 Characteristics
Body Shape: Classic triangular angelfish form with tall fins.
Coloration: Striking metallic blue-black sheen that deepens with age; some varieties show iridescent blue highlights on the body and fins.
Fins: Long, elegant fins with subtle dark edging.
Eyes: Usually bright red or orange.
Behavior: Graceful, peaceful, and social—ideal for community tanks.
Unique Feature: The “Pinoy” gene gives it a dark body combined with a beautiful blue metallic glow, making it one of the most stunning modern angelfish strains.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flake food, slow-sinking pellets, frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Tip: A mix of color-enhancing foods brings out the vivid blue hue.
🛠️ Tank Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 120 liters (30 gallons) for a pair; 200+ liters for groups.
Filtration: Gentle flow; maintain stable, warm water.
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel.
Decor: Tall plants (Amazon swords, Vallisneria), driftwood, and soft lighting to highlight the fish’s blue shimmer.
Lighting: Moderate; accentuates the metallic blue body.
Water Change: 25–30% weekly for best color and health.
👥 Social Behavior
Nature: Peaceful but territorial during breeding.
Tank Mates: Compatible with Discus, peaceful Tetras, Corydoras, Dwarf Gouramis.
Avoid: Fin-nippers or aggressive fish.
Breeding: Pair bonds form naturally; both parents care for eggs and fry.
✅ Do’s
• Keep in stable, clean, warm water.
• Use soft lighting to enhance color.
• Feed high-quality color-enhancing foods.
❌ Don’ts
• Avoid overstocking or poor water quality.
• Don’t keep with fin-nipping species.
• Avoid fluctuating temperatures.
⭐ Quick Tip:
The Pinoy Angel is a modern hybrid Angelfish that combines deep jet-black tones with brilliant electric-blue sheen, originally line-bred in the Philippines—making it a prized choice for aquarists who love unique, metallic coloration.

