The term angelfish is applied to several unrelated fishes of the order Perciformes. The angelfishes, or scalares, popular in home aquariums are members of the genus Pterophyllum of the cichlid family. They are thin, deep-bodied fishes with elongated dorsal, anal, and pelvic fins. Depending on the authority, one to three species may be recognized: P. scalare, P. eimekei, and P. altum. These angelfishes are native to the fresh waters of South America and may grow to a length of about 6 inches (15 centimeters). They are commonly silvery with vertical dark markings but may be solid or partially black.
The brightly colored marine angelfishes seen among tropical reefs are members of the family Pomacanthidae. Sometimes placed with the similar butterfly fishes in the family Chaetodontidae, they are compressed, deep-bodied fishes with small mouths and rather rough scales; the largest grows about 18 inches (46 centimeters) long. In many species, coloring of the young differs greatly from that of adults. Among the better-known species are the black and gold angelfish (Centropyge bicolor) of the Indo-Pacific, the black and yellow French angelfish (Pomacanthus paru) of the Atlantic, and the blue and yellow queen angelfish (Holacanthus ciliaris) also of the Atlantic.
All species of angelfish are carnivorous. They feed on algae, invertebrates, and other fish. Fertilization is external: females lay unfertilized eggs, and males release sperm into the water over the eggs. Eggs and fry—very young fish—are protected and cared for by both parents.