Silver Angelfish
Silver angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are seen as the standard angelfish but that doesn’t mean they aren’t stunning. Their silver bodies with black vertical stripes and the red eyes present in some individuals are a great sight within almost any community aquarium.
Angelfish are easy-going cichlids that do well in almost any community tank. They can tolerate a wide range of pH values and are peaceful enough to be kept with most tetras and other peaceful cichlids.
Breeding
Breeding angelfish can often be achieved by giving them a vertical, flat surface to spawn on, such as a leaf of an Amazon Sword or a piece of slate leaning against the wall. Fry will be cared for until a few weeks after they are free swimming, though you can remove them once they are active and swimming independently.
| Species | Pterophyllum scalare |
|---|---|
| Size (adult) | 3 to 5 inches |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Water Conditions | Neutral to slightly alkaline pH, 24–28°C |
FAQ
What kind of tank setup is best for silver angelfish?
A community tank with plenty of open space and hiding spots is ideal. Include plants like Amazon Sword for spawning surfaces and maintain stable water conditions.
Can silver angelfish be kept with other fish?
Yes, they are generally peaceful and can coexist with most tetras and other non-aggressive cichlids.
How do I encourage silver angelfish to breed?
Provide a vertical, flat surface such as an Amazon Sword leaf or a piece of slate for spawning. The fish will lay eggs on the surface, and the fry will remain in the tank for a few weeks until they become free-swimming.
Fiona Scott –
The silver angelfish are beautiful and calm. They fit well in my 55-gallon tank with neon tetras and dwarf corydoras. They don’t chase other fish and look great in the tank.
Brian May –
I’ve had them for three months and they’re still active and healthy. The black stripes stand out well in the light. I didn’t have any issues with aggression or water parameters.
Deirdre Campbell –
Easy to care for and very attractive. The red-eyed individuals are especially striking. I added a leaf from an Amazon Sword, and they started spawning after a few weeks.