Green Sapphire Angel Fish (Pterophyllum scalare)

Green Sapphire Angelfish is a premium selectively bred freshwater angelfish admired for its deep emerald‑green to blue‑green iridescence and elegant body shape. Under proper lighting, mature specimens show a metallic “sapphire” sheen that makes them a centerpiece fish in planted and display aquariums.

 Species Overview

• Scientific name: Pterophyllum scalare
• Common name: Green Sapphire Angelfish
• Family: Cichlidae
• Adult size: 15 cm (6") body; up to 20 cm (8") tall with fins
• Lifespan: 8–12 years
• Temperament: Semi‑peaceful
• Care level: Intermediate
• Origin: Captive-bred (wild ancestors from the Amazon Basin)

 Coloration & Genetics

• Rich green to teal body coloration with blue iridescent highlights
• Color intensity increases with age, diet, and lighting
• Minimal to no vertical striping compared to wild‑type scalare
• Color is genetically stable in well-bred lines, unlike “diet-based” colorations

 Dark substrates and planted tanks dramatically enhance sapphire sheen.

Ideal Tank Requirements

• Minimum tank size:
  • Single specimen: 30 gallons
  • Pair or group: 55+ gallons
• Tank height: Important (18"+ vertical space recommended)
• Temperature: 24–28 °C (75–82 °F)
• pH: 6.0–7.2
• GH: 3–8
• KH: 1–5
• Flow: Low to moderate
• Aquascape: Planted with vertical structures (Amazon swords, driftwood)

• A calm, well-structured aquarium reduces stress and improves coloration.

 Diet

Omnivorous—thrives on a varied diet:

• High-quality angelfish pellets or flakes
• Frozen foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms, mysis)
• Occasional live foods
• Vegetable matter (spirulina-based foods)

 Foods rich in carotenoids and spirulina help maintain deep green coloration.

Tank Mates

Compatible with:

• Larger tetras (rummynose, emperor)
• Corydoras catfish
• Bristlenose plecos
• Peaceful dwarf cichlids (with space)

Avoid:

• Fin‑nippers (tiger barbs, some danios)
• Very small fish (neon tetras may be eaten as adults)
• Highly aggressive cichlids

 During breeding, pairs can become territorial.

Breeding Notes

Green Sapphire Angelfish breed similarly to standard P. scalare:

• Form monogamous pairs
• Lay eggs on vertical surfaces (leaves, slate, glass)
• Parents may guard fry, though first-time pairs can fail