Albino Manacapuru Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

The Albino Manacapuru Angelfish is a stunning color variant of the wild-type Manacapuru Angelfish, originating from the Manacapuru region of the Amazon River in Brazil. It combines the elegant tall-bodied shape of Manacapuru angels with distinctive albino coloration, featuring a pale golden to creamy body, red or pink eyes, and the characteristic red-orange coloration that develops across the back and shoulders as it matures.

Graceful, hardy, and full of personality, the Albino Manacapuru Angelfish makes an excellent centerpiece for planted and South American community aquariums. Its flowing fins, attractive body shape, and fascinating social behavior make it a popular choice for aquarists looking for a beautiful and unique freshwater angelfish.

What We Like About This Fish

• Beautiful albino coloration with distinctive red or pink eyes
• Develops the signature red-orange Manacapuru back with age and conditioning
• Elegant wild-type body shape with long, flowing finnage
• Hardy and adaptable when properly acclimated
• Excellent centerpiece fish for planted and community aquariums
• Fascinating pairing, territorial, and breeding behavior

Recommended Tank Parameters

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons (120 liters); taller tanks are strongly preferred
• Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• KH: 1–8 dKH
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate

Tall driftwood, broad-leaved plants, and vertical structures suit the body shape of the Albino Manacapuru Angelfish while providing cover, security, and suitable surfaces for spawning.

Care Guidelines

Diet: Omnivorous. Feed high-quality flakes and pellets along with frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and occasional live foods. A varied and nutritious diet helps maintain good health and can support the development of its natural red coloration.

Social Behavior: Peaceful to semi-aggressive. Young fish do well when kept in groups of 4–6, allowing pairs to form naturally as they mature. Adults may become territorial when breeding. Avoid fin-nipping tank mates and very small fish that may be viewed as prey.

Origin

South America – Amazon River Basin, Manacapuru, Brazil

Average Adult Size

15 cm (6 inches) tall and approximately 12 cm (5 inches) long

Average Purchase Size

Approximately 5 cm (1.5–2 inches) mouth to tail

Schooling Fish

No. Juveniles generally do well in groups, but adults typically pair off and may become territorial during breeding.

Shrimp Safe

No. The Albino Manacapuru Angelfish may prey on dwarf shrimp, fry, and other small invertebrates.

The Albino Manacapuru Angelfish is an excellent choice for aquarists who appreciate elegant body shapes, flowing finnage, and unique coloration. With proper care, a spacious tall aquarium, and a nutritious diet, this beautiful angelfish can become a stunning centerpiece in a planted or South American community aquarium.