The scalar or angelfish is a very popular aquarium fish and belongs to the cichlid family. Their correct latin name is Pterophyllum scalare. Like many other, tropical fish the scalar originates from South America, where he is domestic to the Amazon region. Pterophyllum altum, the deep- or altum angelfish is very popular and usually available in its wildform. This one is built even higher and more elongated than the regular angelfish Pterophyllum scalare.