Iquitos Angelfish (Wild)

The Iquitos Angelfish is a wild Pterophyllum scalare collected from Amazonian white and clearwater tributaries in the Iquitos region of northern Peru. This population represents the classic P. scalare body form — robust, deep-bodied, with strong three-bar vertical patterning and vibrant red eye coloration — and is the geographic origin of many early captive angelfish lines.

Iquitos angels are moderately adaptable compared to altum or leopoldi, tolerating a wider pH range while still benefiting from softer, slightly acidic water. They are an excellent introduction to wild-caught angelfish for the intermediate aquarist moving beyond domestic strains.

Wild specimens arrive carrying natural gut fauna and should be quarantined and treated prophylactically for common parasites before introduction to a display tank. Once established, they are hardy and long-lived.

Water: Temperature 25–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, GH 1–10, KH 1–5; moderately soft water with good circulation and weekly partial changes. Tank: 200 L tall aquarium; Amazon-style setup with driftwood, leaf litter, and subdued lighting. Feeding: Frozen bloodworm, artemia, and black mosquito larvae; gradually transition to quality cichlid pellets. Breeding: Spawns readily once conditioned; softer, slightly acidic water significantly improves egg hatch rates. Compatibility: Best with robust Amazonian companions; avoid territorial cichlids and nano fish.