Care guide, husbandry, breeding, disease, and sourcing intelligence on Platinum Angelfish - written by the Fast Aquatics editorial team.
Platinum Angelfish at a glance
Adult size: 6 inches · Min tank/pond: 55 gallons · Difficulty: intermediate · Diet: omnivore · Lifespan: 8-10 years.
Platinum Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare (var)) is a popular freshwater fish in the aquarium and pond hobby. Suitable for keepers with 6-12 months of stable-tank experience.
Where Platinum Angelfish comes from
Platinum Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare (var)) is native to specific tropical and subtropical freshwater systems. Captive-bred specimens at most LFS come from generations of farmed stock and are generally hardier and more colorful than wild-caught equivalents.
Platinum Angelfish tank size and setup
Platinum Angelfish requires a minimum of 55 gallons for healthy adults. The minimum is based on 6 inches adult size and territorial range. Plan a tank sized for adult footprint, HOB or canister filter rated 4-6x volume, dechlorinated water, appropriate temperature heater, and stocking-appropriate hardscape.
Water parameters for Platinum Angelfish
Platinum Angelfish prefers freshwater parameters: temperature 74-80°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-12 dGH, KH 3-8 dKH, ammonia + nitrite 0 ppm, nitrate under 20 ppm. Use dechlorinator on every water change.
What Platinum Angelfish eats
Platinum Angelfish is a omnivore. Provide a varied diet of pellets, frozen foods, and supplemental greens. Feed twice daily in small portions. Browse our food guides for product recommendations.
Platinum Angelfish tankmates and compatibility
Platinum Angelfish works in community tanks with peaceful species in similar size class. Avoid mixing aggressive with passive species.
Platinum Angelfish adult size and lifespan
Platinum Angelfish reaches 6 inches at adulthood with a captive lifespan of 8-10 years with proper care.
Can you breed Platinum Angelfish?
Platinum Angelfish can be bred in dedicated breeding tanks with appropriate setup and water-chemistry triggers. Research the species-specific breeding requirements before attempting.
Common Platinum Angelfish diseases and problems
Platinum Angelfish is susceptible to standard freshwater diseases (ich, columnaris, fin rot, bacterial infections). Quarantine new Platinum Angelfish for 4 weeks before adding to display.
Where to buy Platinum Angelfish online
Platinum Angelfish is sold at LFS, online retailers, and direct from breeders. Browse live Platinum Angelfish from vetted Fast Aquatics vendors with carrier-tracked overnight shipping, climate-aware hold logic, and a 4-hour DOA window with photo-evidence claims.
Related freshwater species you might also keep
Other species in the same category with care profiles on Fast Aquatics. Click any name for the full husbandry breakdown.