Pterophyllum Scalare sp. “Manacapuru Red” – Wild-Type Red Shoulder Angelfish

Pterophyllum scalare sp. “Manacapuru Red”, often called the Manacapuru Red Shoulder Angelfish, is one of the most beautiful wild-type angelfish varieties available in the aquarium hobby. Originating from the Rio Manacapuru region of the Amazon Basin in Brazil, this angelfish is highly prized for its distinctive red to orange coloration on the upper body (shoulder area) combined with elegant vertical black bars and tall flowing fins.

Unlike many domesticated angelfish strains, Manacapuru Red maintains a more natural wild-type appearance and behavior, making it particularly attractive to aquascapers and enthusiasts who prefer authentic Amazonian fish species. As they mature, the red coloration on their shoulders becomes more intense, especially under proper lighting, diet, and water conditions.

This species is ideal for planted aquariums, biotope tanks, and peaceful community setups. Their graceful swimming style and tall body shape create a striking visual centerpiece in aquariums. When kept in groups during juvenile stages, they display interesting social behaviors before forming pairs as adults.

Key Features

• Rare wild-type angelfish from the Rio Manacapuru

• Distinctive red/orange shoulder coloration

• Elegant long fins and tall body shape

• Ideal centerpiece fish for planted aquariums

• Suitable for peaceful community tanks

• Highly valued by aquascapers and collectors

• Natural Amazonian species with striking appearance

Size

• Adult size: 12 – 15 cm body length

• Total height (including fins): up to 20 – 25 cm

• Juveniles are typically 4 – 6 cm when sold

Females tend to have a slightly rounder body, while males may develop a more pronounced forehead as they mature.

Temperament

Pterophyllum scalare “Manacapuru Red” is generally peaceful but semi-territorial as it matures.

• Calm and graceful swimmer

• Can become territorial during breeding

• Best kept in groups of 5–6 when young

• Adult pairs may establish territories

They are suitable for community tanks but should be kept with fish of similar size and temperament.

Water Conditions

Maintaining stable water parameters helps bring out the best coloration and health.

• Temperature: 25 – 29°C (77 – 84°F)

• pH: 6.0 – 7.2

• GH: 3 – 10 dGH

• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm

• Nitrate: < 20 ppm

Regular 20–30% weekly water changes help maintain optimal water quality.

Tank Setup

Manacapuru Red Angelfish thrive in aquariums with vertical space and natural décor.

• Tall aquarium design preferred

• Live plants such as Amazon swords and Vallisneria

• Driftwood and roots to mimic Amazon habitats

• Soft or sandy substrate

• Moderate water flow and good filtration

Minimum tank size: 150 liters (~40 gallons) for a small group or breeding pair.

Feeding Habits

Manacapuru Red Angelfish are omnivorous and accept a wide range of foods.

Recommended foods include:

• High-quality angelfish pellets or flakes

• Frozen foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis shrimp)

• Live foods for conditioning and coloration

• Occasional vegetable-based foods

Feed 2–3 small meals daily to maintain healthy growth and coloration.

Tank Mates

Best kept with peaceful or moderately active fish.

Suitable tank mates:

• Tetras (larger species)

• Corydoras catfish

• Dwarf cichlids

• Rainbowfish

• Peaceful gouramis

Tank mates to avoid:

• Very small fish (may be eaten)

• Fin-nipping species

• Large aggressive cichlids

Care and Maintenance

• Provide tall tanks with vertical swimming space

• Maintain stable warm water conditions

• Perform regular water changes

• Feed varied high-quality diet

• Provide plants and structures for security

With proper care, Manacapuru Red Angelfish can live 8–10 years in captivity.

Why Choose Manacapuru Red Angelfish?

• Rare wild-type angelfish from the Amazon

• Stunning red shoulder coloration

• Elegant fins and graceful swimming

• Ideal centerpiece for planted aquariums

• Popular among aquascapers and collectors

Pterophyllum scalare sp. “Manacapuru Red” is a spectacular and elegant angelfish that brings natural Amazonian beauty to aquariums. Its striking red shoulder coloration, peaceful nature, and graceful movement make it a standout centerpiece fish for planted and community tanks. 🐟🌿