Pterophyllum scalare was one of the first species to be kept in captivity and to this day it is still one of the most common in the market. It’s popularity led to many cross-breedings so now there are many different varieties. In the wild, these fish are silver with dark vertical stripes, however, in the market it is possible to find many varieties like Black, Gold, Marble and more. The Koi variety is the same as the Gold Marbled variety but its orange coloration is more intense and has less marbling.

These fish are diamond shaped, they have a round, laterally compressed body, triangular dorsal and anal fins and they can reach 6 inches in length and 8 inches or more in height. Due to their height, a tall aquarium is essential to keep these fish, a 30 gallon tank is the bare minimum, however, if there is more than one individual the tank needs to be larger. The water should have temperatures ranging from 76ºF to 86ºF and pH between 6.0 and 7.4. The tank should also have rocks, hardy plants, open area for swimming and subdued lighting. This species is peaceful and can be kept in a community aquarium with tankmates of its size, it may eat any smaller fish present in the aquarium. These fish school in the wild, as such, they should be kept in a group, when they are older they will pair off and will get territorial. New fish should never be added to an already existing group.