Description
Koi Red Devil Angelfish is a bold and eye-catching variety of Pterophyllum scalare, selectively bred for its vivid orange-red head, marbled black patterning, and koi-like colour distribution. With its graceful, upright form and long trailing fins, this angelfish makes a striking centrepiece in freshwater aquariums. Like other angelfish, it is semi-aggressive, intelligent, and best kept in a calm, well-planted tank with appropriate tank mates.
Features of Koi Red Devil Angelfish
• Grows up to 15–18 cm tall (including fins)
• Intense red-orange colouration on the head, with marbled black and white patterning across the body
• Elegant, laterally compressed shape with elongated dorsal and anal fins
• Territorial during breeding, but generally peaceful in stable groups
• Forms monogamous pairs and exhibits advanced parental care
• Lifespan ranges from 8 to 10 years with proper care
The best aquarium size for Koi Red Devil Angelfish
A minimum of 120 litres is recommended for a group of juveniles or a bonded pair. For community tanks or larger groups, a tank of 200 litres or more with a minimum height of 45 cm is ideal. Vertical swimming space is important due to their tall fin structure.
Tank Mate Compatibility for Koi Red Devil Angelfish
• Rummy Nose Tetra
• Bronze Corydoras
• Bristlenose Pleco
• Mollies
• Swordtails (non-aggressive types)
Diet for Koi Red Devil Angelfish
This angelfish is omnivorous with a strong preference for high-protein foods. Provide a balanced diet of quality flakes or pellets, and supplement with frozen or live options like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. Add occasional spirulina or blanched vegetables to support digestion and overall health. Feed in small, controlled portions once or twice daily.
Aquarium Setup Koi Red Devil Angelfish
Aquarium Filtration
Use a high-efficiency filter with gentle to moderate flow. Angelfish prefer calm waters, so avoid strong currents. Maintain excellent water quality with ammonia and nitrite at 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm. Perform regular water changes.
Aquarium Plants
Incorporate tall, broad-leaf plants such as Amazon swords, Vallisneria, and Java fern. These provide shelter, reduce stress, and support natural behaviours. Floating plants can further diffuse lighting and provide a sense of security.
Aquarium Lighting
Moderate lighting is ideal to highlight the vivid red and black colours without creating glare. Soft, natural-spectrum LED lighting brings out their tones while supporting plant growth.
Aquarium Heating
Maintain a stable water temperature between 25–28 °C. Use a reliable heater with a thermostat and monitor temperature regularly, especially in tanks with fluctuating room temperatures.
Aquarium Substrate
Use dark, fine gravel or sand to enhance the fish’s colours and reduce glare. A soft substrate also supports rooting of live plants and prevents injury to bottom-dwellers.
Aquarium Decorations
Add vertical driftwood pieces, smooth rocks, and caves to create natural boundaries and reduce territorial stress. Avoid sharp or abrasive objects that could damage their long, flowing fins. Leave open swimming areas, especially in the mid to upper water column.
