Pterophyllum scalare

A Little More Information...

Pterophyllum scalare is a captive-bred variety of Pterophyllum scalare, best known by the trade name Avatar Moscow. This form is distinguished by a predominantly metallic blue and silvery-grey coloration, sometimes enhanced by darker shades depending on the strain and lighting. Like other angelfish, it has a tall, laterally compressed body and long vertical fins. This popular Amazonian cichlid is generally peaceful when kept in a spacious, stable and well-arranged aquarium. Its elegant appearance suits a carefully planned community tank with companions of appropriate size.

General species description

Pterophyllum scalare belongs to the angelfish group, cichlids recognized by their strongly vertical body shape. Avatar Moscow is a form selected in captivity rather than a distinct geographic population. Its behavior is usually peaceful, although it may become territorial as a pair, especially during spawning. It appreciates a tall aquarium with open swimming areas and planted sections that provide shelter. This variety is considered very common in the aquarium trade. Young fish often live in groups; adults establish territories and may defend a spawning surface from their tank mates.

Geographic origin and biotope

Reference countries: Brazil, Peru and Colombia, within the Amazon Basin. Pterophyllum scalare comes from tropical environments where the water is usually warm, soft and low in mineral content. It inhabits quiet margins, side channels and flooded areas associated with riverside forests. Light is often subdued by vegetation, branches and emergent plants. In the aquarium, stable water around 26 to 30 °C, slightly acidic to neutral, better reflects its general conditions than hard, alkaline water.

Precise location and local name

The most common Brazilian local name is acará-bandeira, a name referring to its fins held like a flag. The vernacular name “angelfish” is also widely used in the international aquarium trade. The species is associated with the Amazon Basin, but Avatar Moscow does not represent a collection locality: it is an ornamental strain reproduced in captivity. This distinction matters because its commercial coloration cannot be used to infer a precise regional origin.

Appearance and physical characteristics

Pterophyllum scalare has a strongly compressed body that is much taller than it is long, with long dorsal and anal fins that emphasize its triangular outline. The pelvic fins are filamentous, while the caudal fin remains comparatively compact. The Avatar Moscow form generally shows a silvery or bluish-grey base color, with intensity varying according to age, mood and lighting. Natural vertical bars may be visible or reduced depending on the selection. A tall aquarium is essential for harmonious fin development.

General diet

Pterophyllum scalare is an omnivore and readily accepts quality prepared foods. A base of high-quality cichlid pellets can be supplemented with frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and bloodworms. Young fish should receive small portions several times a day, while adults benefit from moderate meals to prevent obesity. A varied diet supports growth, coloration and overall condition. Remove leftovers promptly, since clean water remains essential to its health.

Essential data

• Native river name: Amazon River
• Local name used: Acará-bandeira
• Origin of the scientific name: A genus name and specific epithet drawing from Greek and Latin roots
• Full-name etymology: Pterophyllum means “winged leaf”; scalare refers to a ladder-like or stair-like form
• Common/vernacular names: Angelfish, freshwater angelfish, scalaire, acará-bandeira, Avatar Moscow
• Family: Cichlidae
• Subfamily: Cichlinae
• Name pronunciation: ter-oh-FIL-um skah-LAR-ay
• Discovery: Schultze, 1823
• Maximum adult size: About 15 cm body length; up to approximately 25 cm in total height with fins
• Water temperature and pH: 26 to 30 °C; pH 6.0 to 7.5
• Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: Quiet or slow-moving water, often shaded, with branches, roots and dense vegetation along the margins
• Typical tank mates: Hemigrammus rhodostomus, Corydoras agassizi, Mikrogeophagus ramirezi, sturdy small characins, peaceful loricariids
• Temperament and behavior: Generally peaceful; territorial as a pair and potentially predatory toward very small fish
• Water depth: Shallow to medium-depth areas near banks and vegetation
• Sexual dimorphism: Difficult to determine outside breeding condition; the genital papilla is more useful in mature fish ready to spawn
• Bottom configuration and flow: Fine to sandy substrate with leaves and plant debris; low to moderate current

In your aquarium

To keep Pterophyllum scalare successfully, provide a tall, fully cycled aquarium with open swimming space. Efficient filtration, regular water changes and a stable temperature are essential. Keep it with peaceful companions that are neither small enough to be swallowed nor aggressive enough to damage its fins. A group of juveniles may develop together, but territorial management becomes important when pairs form. Warm, stable water, a varied diet and a planted layout are the main keys to long-term success.