The Scalars: Aquatic Majesty at Home

In the vast kingdom of ornamental fish, scalars stand out as a gem of aquarium hobby. Scientifically known as Pterophyllum scalare, these aquatic beings are a symphony of elegance and grace, a dance of shapes and colors that captures the eye and beautifies any space with its presence.

An Evolutionary Beauty The scalars, with their tall, laterally compressed body, appear to have been sculpted by an artist who sought to combine functionality and aesthetics. Their long, undulating fins not only give them agile mobility in the water but are also a visual spectacle, especially in the veil and supervelo varieties, where the length of the fins can be four times greater than the length of their body.

A Spectrum of Colors The color palette of scalars is as varied as the imagination. From silver tones and green highlights to dark stripes that intensify with the fish's mood, scalars are a living canvas that reflects their environment and well-being.

Habitat and Care Native to the Amazon River basin, these fish prefer warm, soft waters, with dense vegetation that provides them shelter and security. In captivity, recreating these conditions is essential for their health and happiness. A spacious aquarium, with stable water parameters and a balanced diet, will ensure that the scalars show their maximum splendor.

Reproduction and Conservation The reproduction of scalars in captivity is a testament to the dedication and knowledge of aquarists. By providing them with a suitable environment, these fish can thrive and contribute to the conservation of the species, avoiding overexploitation of their wild populations.
There are three main species within the genus Pterophyllum, commonly known as scalar or angelfish:

• Pterophyllum scalare: It is the best known and most popular species in aquariums. It is characterized by its laterally flattened body and prominent dorsal and anal fins.
• Pterophyllum altum: Known as the scalar altum, it is the largest species, and can exceed 30 centimeters in height. Requires aquariums with a water column greater than 60-70 centimeters.
• Pterophyllum leopoldi: It is the least common species and is distinguished by having a smaller body and narrower and more numerous vertical stripes.

Conclusion Scalars are not just an ornament for our homes; They are ambassadors of aquatic ecosystems, living reminders of the beauty and fragility of nature. By caring for them, we learn to respect life in all its forms and value the biodiversity that our planet has to offer.