Pterophyllum sp. "Manacapuru" is a variant (often considered to be a local form of Pterophyllum scalare) from the Manacapuru region ("Rio Solimões / Amazonas", Brazil). It can be distinguished by its very slender body, very high fins and often a characteristic orange-red "shoulder" or "red back/shoulder" marking.

Behaviour & care

• A moderately peaceful aquarium fish, it can become territorial during the breeding season.
• It should be kept singly or in pairs, or in small groups in a sufficiently large, high tank. The very flattened body and long fins require height.
• Can cohabit well with calm tropical freshwater species; avoid very small or fast fish that could be harassed or used as prey.

Diet

• Omnivorous: accept quality pellets or flakes for cichlids, live or frozen supplements (artemia, worms, daphnia) to stimulate vitality and colouration.
• Vary the diet to enhance red/shoulder marking, body quality and fins.

Water quality

• Recommended temperature: 24 - 28°C (ideal for this Amazonian form).
• pH: 6.0 - 7.0 (soft, slightly acidic water) depending on origin.
• Hardness (GH / KH): low to moderate; this form appreciates good quality, well-filtered water that is as stable as possible.

Setting & environment

• Sandy soil or fine gravel, tall plants, driftwood, open areas for swimming. The tank should be fairly high to allow the high fins to express themselves.
• Minimum recommended volume: around 150 litres, or even more depending on the group and the height of the tank.
• Moderate current, good oxygenation, calm environment; avoid overly powerful currents that could disturb the fish.

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota tip

To make the most of this beautiful Manacapuru shape, choose a dark or neutral background and moderate lighting to highlight the red shoulder marking. Introduce it into a mature tank (well cycled), favouring a couple and a high decor with plants, wood and open areas on the surface. Avoid introducing fish that are too small or likely to be harassed. Ensure regular water changes (20%/week) to maintain excellent water quality.