Red Devil Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

The Red Devil Angelfish is a stunning freshwater angelfish variety known for its intense red and orange coloration, often highlighted with contrasting dark markings across the body and fins. Its bold colors combined with the classic tall angelfish shape make it a striking centerpiece fish for planted aquariums and community tanks.

This variety is tank-bred, making it hardy, adaptable, and well suited for home aquariums. With their graceful swimming style and vibrant appearance, Red Devil Angelfish quickly become the focal point of any aquarium display.

Why Hobbyists Love Red Devil Angelfish

• Bright red and orange coloration that stands out in any aquarium
• Elegant body shape and slow, graceful swimming behavior
• Hardy tank-bred fish that adapts well to aquarium life
• Can be kept in peaceful community aquariums with compatible species

Natural Background

Angelfish originate from the slow-moving waters of the Amazon Basin in South America, where they inhabit areas rich in plants and submerged branches. Although the Red Devil Angelfish is a selectively bred aquarium strain, it still appreciates an environment that mimics its natural habitat.

Aquariums with soft water, gentle flow, and plenty of vegetation will help these fish thrive and display their best colors.

Ideal Aquarium Setup

Red Devil Angelfish do best in aquariums that include a combination of plants, driftwood, and open swimming space. Because of their tall body shape, aquariums with greater vertical height are preferred.

Recommended plants include:

• Amazon Sword
• Anubias
• Java Fern
• Cryptocoryne species

Hardscape elements such as driftwood and river stones can create a natural environment and provide structure within the aquarium. Botanicals like Indian Almond Leaves or alder cones can also help add beneficial tannins to the water.

Diet and Feeding

Red Devil Angelfish are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. A balanced diet will support strong health and maintain their vibrant coloration.

Recommended foods include:

• High-quality flakes or pellets
• Frozen bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia
• Occasional live foods

Offering a varied diet is the best way to keep these fish healthy and active.

Tank Mates and Compatibility

Red Devil Angelfish are generally peaceful but may become territorial during breeding. They do well with other calm fish of similar size.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Tetras
• Corydoras catfish
• Peaceful rainbowfish
• Other non-aggressive community fish

Avoid aggressive species or fin-nipping fish, which may stress angelfish.

Shrimp Compatibility

Angelfish are not considered shrimp-safe. Adult angelfish may prey on ornamental shrimp and shrimp fry, so they are best kept in aquariums without small shrimp species.

Breeding Information

Red Devil Angelfish can be bred in aquariums with proper conditions. They form monogamous breeding pairs and usually lay their eggs on flat surfaces such as broad plant leaves, decorations, or aquarium glass.

For successful breeding:

• Maintain clean water conditions
• Keep water slightly acidic
• Maintain temperature around 80°F (27°C)

Recommended Tank Parameters

Temperature: 75 – 82°F (24 – 28°C)
pH: 6.5 – 7.5
KH: 2 – 10 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons

Size Information

Average Adult Size: 5 – 6 inches (12.7 – 15.2 cm)
Typical Sale Size: 1 – 2 inches

Origin

Most Red Devil Angelfish in the aquarium trade are tank-bred by professional breeders, making them more adaptable to aquarium conditions.

Bring bold color and elegance to your aquarium with the Red Devil Angelfish, a vibrant and eye-catching freshwater angelfish that makes an exceptional centerpiece for planted and community aquariums.