Peruvian Scalare Angelfish (Wild)

The Peruvian Scalare Angelfish represents wild P. scalare collected from flooded forest margins and oxbow lakes across the Peruvian Amazon lowlands. These specimens typically show a slightly deeper body depth ratio, more prominent red eye colouration, and a crisper three-bar pattern than most long-established captive lines that have undergone genetic drift.

This is an excellent choice for the aquarist who wants the authentic wild scalare body form and colouration without the extreme water chemistry demands of P. altum or the rarity of P. leopoldi. Peruvian scalare are more adaptable than many wild angelfish, tolerating moderately hard water if acclimatised gradually.

As with all wild-caught angelfish, quarantine is essential before introduction to a display tank. Once settled, Peruvian scalare are hardy, long-lived, and will often spawn without special inducement if provided appropriate water conditions.

Water: Temperature 24–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, GH 1–10, KH 1–5; moderately soft water ideal; weekly partial water changes. Tank: 200 L tall aquarium; Amazon-style decor with driftwood and broad-leaved plants suits this species perfectly. Feeding: Frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, black mosquito larvae; transition to quality cichlid pellets over several weeks. Breeding: Pair bond forms naturally in groups; provide flat vertical surfaces such as broad leaves or slate for spawning. Compatibility: Works well with robust Amazonian community species; avoid fin-nippers and very small fish.