Freshwater Angelfish Types with Photos

Freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum) are a type of tropical fish that are native to the Amazon River in South America. They are popular aquarium fish and are known for their beautiful color patterns and long, flowing fins.

Pterophyllum is a genus of cichlid fish with three known species. These fish are unusual in shape due to their round, laterally compressed bodies and elongated triangular dorsal and anal fins. Most wild Pterophyllum specimens are also striped longitudinally, which helps them blend in with their surroundings. The most commonly kept species is Pterophyllum scalare, also frequently bred in captivity. Pterophyllum Altum is the second most common species in captivity, while Pterophyllum leopoldi is the smallest and least commonly found in the tropical fish-keeping hobby.

Wide varieties of freshwater angelfish are mainly derived from Pterophyllum scalare, including veil angelfish, marble angelfish, and koi angelfish. Freshwater angelfish are generally peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful community fish. They do best in a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a good filtration system.

Freshwater angelfish require a diet of high-quality dry and live foods, and they should be fed small meals several times a day. They are sensitive to water quality and require regular water changes to maintain good health.

I will list most of the known freshwater angelfish types and strains in this article.

Freshwater Angelfish Types:

1. Wild Angelfish or Silver Angelfish

2. Zebra Angelfish

Zebra Angelfish has silver body with black longitudinal stripes and sometimes come with blue shades on their bodies or the stripes.

Although Silver Zebra Angelfish are generally considered suitable for community tanks by tropical fish-keeping enthusiasts, they may need to be more compatible with smaller species due to their cichlid nature. When they are juveniles, they tend to school peacefully in small groups, but as they grow, they may become more territorial and pair off with a mate. When deciding which fish to keep with Silver Zebra Angelfish, it is important to keep this in mind.

3. Koi Angelfish

The Koi Angelfish is a breed of angelfish developed for its distinctive black and white mixed coloration. Most koi angelfish come with gold markings on their heads. When they are young, Koi Angelfish may have a reddish spot under their eyes that fades as they age. These fish are known for their striking appearance, and each individual tends to have its unique coloration, much like the popular Koi fish.