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Leopold's Angelfish
Pterophyllum leopoldi
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Cichlidae
📍 Amazon Basin, South America
The smallest and rarest Pterophyllum species. Distinguishable from P. scalare by its more elongated body, a distinctive black spot on the dorsal base, and an absence of the pre-dorsal notch. Rarely available in the trade and best kept by experienced keepers. Requires soft, acidic conditions similar to the altum.
Care Guide
Diet
Leopold's Angelfish are omnivores requiring a varied diet of high-quality micro pellets, small frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia), and occasional live foods. Feed small portions once daily, offering only what they can consume in 2-3 minutes. Supplement with vegetable matter like blanched spinach or quality flake food to support long-term health.
Behavior
This species is notably shy and reclusive compared to common angelfish, preferring densely planted areas for security. Leopold's Angelfish are semi-aggressive during breeding and territorial, but generally peaceful with non-competing species when not spawning. They are mid-water swimmers that benefit from vertical tank space and appreciate subdued lighting.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is rare and challenging, requiring experienced keepers and pristine soft, acidic water conditions (pH 5.0–6.0, 1–3 dGH). Pairs are difficult to establish and may be aggressive toward each other; successful breeding typically occurs only in dedicated breeding tanks with minimal disturbance. Fry are extremely small and require infusoria or liquid fry food initially.
Tank Mates
Peaceful algae eater compatible with soft, acidic water; won't compete with angelfish
Thrives in identical soft, acidic Amazon conditions; small size prevents predation concerns
Prefers soft water and mid-water zone; schooling behavior provides security without aggression
May be predated upon if very small; larger adults generally safe in heavily planted tanks
Common Diseases
Ich (White Spot Disease)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, flashing against objects, lethargy
Raise temperature gradually to 28–29°C, perform 25% water changes daily, use ich medication if needed; maintain pristine water quality
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fin edges, discoloration at fin bases, reduced activity
Perform frequent water changes, improve water quality, remove decaying plants, use antibacterial medication if severe
Bacterial Infection
Lesions, open sores, cloudy eyes, loss of appetite, color fading
Isolate affected fish, maintain pristine water conditions, use broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment if necessary
Hole-in-the-Head Disease
Pits or holes developing on head and lateral line, lethargy, loss of appetite
Improve water quality, increase water change frequency, ensure varied diet with quality foods, use metronidazole if bacterial
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Omnivore – small live or frozen foods, quality micro pellets
- lifespan
- 8–12 years
- max size
- 10 cm (3.9 in) body; 20 cm (7.9 in) fin-to-fin height
- tank size
- 30 gallons minimum
- temperament
- Semi-aggressive when breeding, shyer than P. scalare
Water it likes
- ph
- 5.0–7.0
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <15 ppm
- hardness
- 1–6 dGH
- temperature
- 77–84°F (25–29°C)