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Pearlscale Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
Animalia›Chordata›Actinopterygii›Cichlidae
Variety of Silver Angelfish · pearlscale
📍 Amazon Basin, South America
A captive-bred variety expressing the pearlscale gene, which causes each scale to have a raised, pearlescent centre giving the fish a textured, almost jewelled appearance. Often combined with other colour genes (gold, marble, koi) to produce striking show specimens.
Care Guide
Diet
Feed high-quality cichlid pellets as a staple once daily, supplemented 3-4 times weekly with frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia to promote color and condition. Occasional vegetable matter like blanched spinach supports digestive health. Vary foods to prevent nutritional deficiencies and maintain the distinctive pearlescent scale appearance.
Behavior
Pearlscale Angelfish are graceful mid-water swimmers that display territorial behavior, especially during breeding. They are generally peaceful but may nip at smaller fish or long-finned species; keep in pairs or small groups with adequate space and vertical structures. They are curious and respond well to feeding routines, often recognizing their keeper.
Breeding
Breeding in captivity is moderately difficult but achievable with proper conditioning and water parameters. A bonded pair will lay eggs on vertical surfaces (plants, driftwood, or breeding cones) and exhibit strong parental care, aggressively defending fry. Separate fry to a nursery tank after 5-7 days and feed infusoria or liquid fry food before transitioning to micro pellets.
Tank Mates
Similar water parameters; schooling behavior reduces aggression toward them
Similar size and temperament but may compete for territory; requires careful monitoring
Peaceful algae eater that occupies different water column; minimal interaction
Schooling fish that prefers mid-water; compatible water parameters and peaceful nature
Common Diseases
Ich (White Spot Disease)
White spots on body and fins, rapid breathing, flashing against objects, lethargy
Raise temperature gradually to 28-30°C, perform 25% water changes daily, use aquarium salt (1 tsp per 5 gallons) or commercial ich treatment for 7-10 days
Fin Rot
Frayed or deteriorating fin edges, discoloration at fin bases, lethargy
Improve water quality with frequent partial changes, reduce tank stress, use antibacterial medication if severe; ensure ammonia and nitrite remain at 0 ppm
Hole-in-the-Head (HITH)
Small pits or holes developing on head and lateral line, loss of appetite
Perform large water changes, improve diet with varied foods and vitamin supplementation, use metronidazole if parasitic; maintain excellent water quality
Bacterial Infection
Cloudy eyes, torn fins, open sores, color loss, behavioral changes
Isolate affected fish, perform daily 50% water changes, use broad-spectrum antibiotic treatment; maintain pristine water conditions and reduce stocking density
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Varieties
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Quick Facts
- diet
- Omnivore – cichlid pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, flake
- lifespan
- 10–12 years
- max size
- 15 cm (5.9 in) body; up to 30 cm (11.8 in) fin-to-fin height
- tank size
- 30 gallons minimum (taller is better)
- temperament
- Semi-aggressive, especially when breeding
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–7.5
- ammonia
- 0 ppm
- nitrate
- <20 ppm
- hardness
- 3–8 dGH
- temperature
- 75–86°F (24–30°C)