Freshwater Angelfish
(Pterophyllum scalare)
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Animal Type
Fish
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Exhibits
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Range
South America
Overview
Freshwater angelfish have black vertical stripes and long ventral fins. Their triangular body shape helps them swim through plants and find prey. Freshwater angelfish primarily live in areas with dense vegetation and slow-moving waters. They attach their eggs to plants, roots, submerged branches and other surfaces. Both the male and female guard their eggs from predators.
Quick Facts
Learn more about freshwater angelfish! Did you know they're the size of a sesame seed when they hatch?
They are native to the Amazon River Basin and many other rivers in South America.
Freshwater angelfish eat insects, worms, fish fry, fish eggs and algae.
They can grow up to 7 inches long and usually weigh less than an ounce.
Their population is not threatened.
Predators like large fish, birds and caimans prey on freshwater angelfish.
Explore Exhibit Residents
Learn more about the animals that share an exhibit with this one.
Giant South American River Turtle (Podocnemis expansa)
The giant South American river turtle is one of the largest freshwater turtles in the world.
Emerald Tree Boa (Corallus caninus)
They can reach over 6 feet in length.
White-Blotched River Stingray (Potamotrygon leopoldi)
This stingray has a distinctive pattern of dots, helping it blend into its riverbed habitat.
Silver Arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum)
Arowana feed on fish found close to the surface.
Giant Waxy Tree Frog (Phyllomedusa bicolor)
These frogs prevent themselves from drying out by wiping wax over their bodies.