Golden Scaled Angelfish

Introduction: The Golden Scaled Angelfish, a striking variant of Pterophyllum scalare, is known for its shimmering golden scales and elegant, elongated fins. Native to the slow-moving waters of the Amazon Basin in South America, this freshwater fish is popular among aquarists for its beauty, graceful swimming, and adaptability to aquarium life.

Scientific Name: The Golden Scaled Angelfish belongs to the species Pterophyllum scalare.

Water Quality and Temperature:

• Temperature: Maintain a water temperature between 76°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C) to replicate the warm waters of their natural habitat.
• pH Level: A pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal, reflecting the slightly acidic to neutral conditions they prefer.
• KH Level: Aim for a carbonate hardness (KH) of 3 to 8 dKH for stable water chemistry.

Feeding: The Golden Scaled Angelfish is omnivorous and requires a balanced diet, including:

• Flakes and Pellets: High-quality flake or pellet food formulated for angelfish provides essential nutrients.
• Frozen and Live Foods: They enjoy live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia for extra protein.
• Vegetables: Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables like spinach or zucchini to satisfy their herbivorous side.

Tank Mates: The Golden Scaled Angelfish is semi-aggressive, especially during breeding or when defending territory. They are best kept with peaceful tank mates such as larger tetras, gouramis, or other non-aggressive cichlids. Avoid smaller fish or fin-nippers like barbs, as they can stress or injure the Angelfish.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: A soft, sandy substrate is ideal for the Golden Scaled Angelfish. Incorporate driftwood, rocks, and live plants to provide them with hiding places and territories to claim. These decorations will mimic their natural environment and reduce stress, while also offering areas for foraging.

Suitable Plants: Include live plants such as Amazon Swords, Anubias, or Vallisneria in the tank, as these fish thrive in planted aquariums. These plants not only enhance the aquarium’s aesthetics but also provide shelter and spawning surfaces.

Sexing: Distinguishing between male and female Golden Scaled Angelfish is difficult, as they look similar. Males may have slightly larger bodies and more pointed dorsal fins, while females typically have a rounder belly, especially when preparing to spawn.

Breeding: Breeding Golden Scaled Angelfish is relatively straightforward in the right conditions. They are monogamous, forming strong breeding pairs. Provide a breeding tank with clean water, a flat surface like a broad leaf or a piece of slate for egg-laying, and ensure proper nutrition. The parents will guard the eggs and fry until they are free-swimming, which usually occurs within a week.

Maximum Size and Longevity: The Golden Scaled Angelfish can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in length. With proper care and a well-maintained environment, they can live for 10 to 12 years in captivity.

General Information: The Golden Scaled Angelfish stands out with its vibrant gold coloration and shimmering scales. This eye-catching fish is perfect for planted aquariums, where its beauty and peaceful swimming behavior can be fully appreciated. They are relatively hardy and adapt well to different tank conditions, making them a great addition to community tanks.

A Fun Fact: Angelfish, including the Golden Scaled variant, are known for their curious and interactive nature. They can recognize their owners and may even swim to the front of the tank when someone approaches, showcasing their engaging personality.