Manacapuru Angelfish

Manacapuru Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

Red Head Manacapuru Variant

A sought-after wild-type locality strain of angelfish originating from the Manacapuru region of Brazil, where the Rio Negro meets the Amazon. This distinctive variant is prized for its vivid red coloration on the face and head that extends upward toward the dorsal fin — a trait that intensifies with age and under ideal soft, acidic water conditions. Unlike many heavily line-bred strains, the Manacapuru retains much of the elegant wild character while offering striking color that sets it apart from standard angelfish.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: Up to 15 cm / ~6 inches (body and fins).
• Appearance: Tall, laterally compressed body with the classic angelfish silhouette. The standout feature is the intense red head and facial coloration that contrasts beautifully against the silvery body and vertical barring. Color develops more richly in soft, acidic water and with maturity. Both standard and veil-fin forms are available.
• Fin Details: Long, graceful dorsal and anal fins typical of the species; veil-fin variants exhibit even more dramatic, flowing finnage.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 90 gallons for a small group or pair (larger is strongly recommended for adults).
• Water Parameters: Soft, acidic to slightly acidic tropical freshwater; 78–84°F (26–29°C), pH 6.0–7.0 (ideally 6.0–6.5 for best color development), low hardness. Excellent water quality with regular partial changes is essential. Use RO or aged water with tannins (driftwood or Indian almond leaves) to maintain soft, acidic conditions. Provide tall plants, driftwood, or vertical décor to complement their tall body shape while leaving open swimming space.
• Diet: Omnivorous — accepts high-quality flakes, pellets, frozen foods (bloodworm, brine shrimp, beef heart mixes), and live invertebrates or insects. A varied diet supports health and vibrant coloration.
• Behavior: Relatively peaceful for an angelfish when kept in appropriately sized tanks with plenty of structure. Best kept in groups when young, forming pairs as adults. Can be territorial toward other angelfish or similarly shaped fish and may eat very small tankmates. Captive-bred specimens (aquacultured in Asia) are hardier and more adaptable than wild-caught fish.

IUCN Status Not Applicable (wild-type locality strain; captive-bred)

Add authentic Amazonian character, striking red head coloration, and graceful presence to your planted or blackwater aquarium with the beautiful Manacapuru Angelfish!