How to Identify Freshwater Angelfish

To identify Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare), look at these key features.

Physical Characteristics

Body shape

compressed

Coloration

Wild type: Silver body with four prominent vertical black stripes. Cultivated varieties exhibit a vast array of colors including black, marble, gold, koi, albino, and various combinations. Stripes can be solid, broken, or absent depending on the morph.

Scale type

ctenoid

Mouth position

superior

Distinctive features

Laterally compressed, disc-shaped body, Greatly elongated dorsal and anal fins, giving a triangular or crescent shape, Elongated, filamentous pelvic fins, Small, upturned mouth

Dorsal fin

Very tall and triangular, extending from just behind the head to the caudal peduncle, often with 11-13 spines and 26-30 soft rays.

Tail fin

Fan-shaped, typically with 16-18 rays, often with the upper and lower rays slightly elongated.

Pectoral fin

Small and rounded, positioned high on the body.

Distinctive fins

Pelvic fins are extremely elongated and filamentous, often extending beyond the caudal fin, serving as sensory organs.

Identification Tips

1. 1

   Body Shape

   The most defining characteristic is its highly compressed, disc-like body, which is much taller than it is long.

2. 2

   Fin Structure

   Look for the exceptionally long, triangular dorsal and anal fins, and the distinctive, thread-like pelvic fins.

3. 3

   Coloration (Wild Type)

   Wild P. scalare typically have a silver body with four prominent vertical black stripes. These stripes can fade or intensify based on the fish's mood or environment.

4. 4

   Size

   Adults can reach up to 15 cm (6 inches) in body length and 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) in height, including fins.

Explore Freshwater Angelfish