Red Koi Angelfish | Pterophyllum scalare

The Red Koi Angelfish is one of the most striking and popular freshwater angelfish varieties in the aquarium hobby. This beautiful fish features a bright white and orange body with vibrant red markings on the head, resembling the coloration of traditional Japanese koi fish.

As they mature, the red coloration on the head and upper body can become more intense, creating a bold and eye-catching appearance. Combined with their tall body shape and flowing fins, Red Koi Angelfish make a stunning centerpiece fish for planted aquariums and community tanks.

Like most ornamental angelfish varieties, Red Koi Angelfish are tank-bred, making them hardy and well adapted to aquarium life.

Why Aquarists Love Red Koi Angelfish

• Beautiful koi-like pattern with red, orange, and white coloration
• Bright red head markings that intensify with maturity
• Elegant body shape and graceful swimming behavior
• Perfect centerpiece fish for planted aquariums

Behavior & Compatibility

Red Koi Angelfish are generally peaceful cichlids compared to many other members of the cichlid family. They can live comfortably in a community aquarium with other calm fish of similar size.

However, like most angelfish, they may become territorial during breeding, especially when protecting eggs or fry.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Tetras
• Corydoras catfish
• Peaceful gouramis
• Larger rasboras

Avoid fin-nipping fish such as tiger barbs, as they may damage the angelfish’s long fins.

Ideal Aquarium Setup

Red Koi Angelfish thrive in planted aquariums with stable water conditions and gentle water movement.

A suitable aquarium setup may include:

• Live plants such as Amazon Sword, Vallisneria, or Java Fern
• Driftwood and natural decorations
• Open swimming areas
• Moderate lighting

Because of their tall body shape, aquariums with good vertical height are recommended.

Diet and Feeding

Red Koi Angelfish are omnivores and accept a wide variety of foods.

Recommended foods include:

• High-quality flakes
• Small pellets
• Frozen bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia

Providing a varied diet will help maintain healthy growth and vibrant coloration.

Recommended Tank Parameters

Temperature: 76 – 84°F (24 – 29°C)
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
KH: 2 – 12 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a pair

Size Information

Average Adult Size:
• Length: up to 6 inches (15 cm)
• Height: up to 8 inches (20 cm)

Typical Sale Size: 1.5 – 2.5 inches

Origin

Most Red Koi Angelfish available in the aquarium hobby are tank-bred ornamental strains derived from angelfish native to South American river systems.

Add vibrant color and elegance to your aquarium with the Red Koi Angelfish, a stunning freshwater angelfish admired for its koi-like patterns and graceful swimming behavior.