Easy care
They are generally peaceful, but can be aggressive eaters and may become territorial while breeding. All levels of the aquarium. dweller
At a glance
Species profile Pterophyllum scalare
Adult size
15 cm
Swimming level
All levels of the aquarium.
Lifespan
8 - 10 years
Water type
Freshwater
Size to scale
15 cm adult length, shown to scale against an iPhone 15 Pro (14.66 cm).
Water
Singapore tap water vs its needs
Adjusting pH the natural way — Singapore tap water (pH ~8.0) sits above this fish's ideal. Soften and gently lower pH the natural way — driftwood, catappa (Indian almond) leaves or other botanicals. Skip chemical "pH-down".
In the aquarium
How it lives in the tank
Swims at every level of the tank
Gensou's take
2/5
Sensitivity Index — Hardy
Hardy and beginner-friendly; keep up routine water changes and it will thrive.
Our own read on how forgiving this species is of water changes — not a formal standard.
Feeding
Recommended food
Compatibility
Best tankmates
Community
