Freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are an important "bread-and-butter" item for Florida's ornamental fish producers. An analysis of 214 cases presented to the University of Florida between 1987 and 1995 demonstrated that the most common problem encountered was parasitism which was present in 164 cases (77%). Although the most common single agent identified was Spironucleus vortens (previously known as Hexamita) which was identified in 93 cases (43%), infection with external protozoans was the most common problem encountered and was found in 133 cases (62%). Bacterial agents were identified in 95 cases (44%) and Flexibacter columnaris was the organism most frequently identified. Mycotic disease (Saprolegnia) was present in 18 cases (8%) and viral particles were identified (using transmission electron microscopy only) in 11 cases (5%). Although there is a great deal of public concern about possible viral or "plaque-like" diseases in freshwater angelfish, most fish examined at the University of Florida had problems which were readily identifiable and treatable.