Common Name: Super Red Koi Angelfish
Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare
Other Names: Super Red Koi Angel, Koi Angelfish
The Super Red Koi Angelfish is a selectively bred variant of Pterophyllum scalare, developed for its intense red-orange coloration over a silvery-white base with variable black marbling. Its long, graceful fins and laterally compressed body give it the elegant triangular profile that angelfish are known for. This variety is particularly striking due to its vivid red coverage, often concentrated on the head and upper body. Like all angelfish, it is intelligent, interactive, and well-suited to planted or semi-planted community aquariums.
Habitat and Distribution:
While the natural form of Pterophyllum scalare originates from the Amazon River Basin, including slow-moving tributaries and floodplains in Brazil, Peru, and Colombia, the Super Red Koi variety is a man-made strain selectively bred in captivity. Wild angelfish inhabit warm, soft, acidic waters densely populated with aquatic vegetation and submerged roots, where they glide through the vertical spaces created by plants and branches.
Size and Lifespan:
Super Red Koi Angelfish typically grow to 6 inches (15 cm) in body length, with fins that can reach up to 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) in height. With proper care, they can live for 8-10 years in captivity.
Diet and Behavior:
Angelfish are omnivores and benefit from a varied diet. In captivity, they do well on high-quality flakes or floating pellets, supplemented with frozen or live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms, and chopped tilapia. Occasional vegetable matter like spirulina flakes or blanched spinach supports overall health. Super Red Koi Angelfish are semi-aggressive cichlids that develop complex social hierarchies, especially during breeding. They are best kept in groups with care taken to manage compatibility as they mature.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Angelfish are relatively easy to breed in captivity. They form monogamous pairs and prefer to spawn on vertical surfaces such as broad leaves or aquarium glass. After laying eggs, both parents typically guard the nest and fan the eggs to ensure oxygenation. Fry hatch in 2–3 days and can be fed baby brine shrimp or powdered fry food. The Super Red Koi variety breeds true for its coloration but may show variability in pattern intensity.
Aquarium Care and Tank Requirements:
A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for a small group, though 55+ gallons is ideal for adult pairs or larger groups. The tank should include a soft substrate, vertical structures like driftwood and tall plants, moderate lighting, and gentle water flow. Strong filtration is needed, but water movement should not be excessive. These fish benefit from stable water quality and regular maintenance.
Ideal Tank Mates:
Super Red Koi Angelfish do best with peaceful to semi-aggressive tank mates that are not small enough to be seen as prey. Suitable companions include Corydoras, Bristlenose Plecos, Dwarf Cichlids (like Apistogramma), Swordtails, Mollies, Rainbowfish, and larger Tetras such as Bleeding Hearts or Black Skirts. Avoid fin-nipping species such as Tiger Barbs and very small fish like Neon Tetras which may be eaten as they mature.
Difficulty Level:
Beginner to Intermediate. While hardy, they do best in stable, well-maintained tanks and can become territorial during breeding.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C)
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- General Hardness (GH): 4-12 dGH
- Carbonate Hardness (KH): 3-8 dKH
- Ammonia: 0 ppm
- Nitrite: 0 ppm
- Nitrate: <20 ppm
Additional Information:
- Their bright red and white coloration can intensify with age, especially under good lighting and diet.
- A calm environment helps prevent fin damage and supports their elegant appearance.
- They form strong pair bonds and may become protective of their space during breeding.
The Super Red Koi Angelfish is a showstopping freshwater species that brings grace, color, and personality to community aquariums. With the right care, they make a rewarding and interactive centerpiece fish for hobbyists of all experience levels.
