Description
Koi Angel (Pterophyllum scalare)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare
Common Names: Koi Angelfish, Tricolor Angel, Orange Marble Angel
Family: Cichlidae
Order: Cichliformes
Origin: Captive-bred variant of Pterophyllum scalare from the Amazon River Basin (Peru, Brazil, Colombia)
Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches) body length; 25 cm (10 inches) tall including fins
Lifespan: 8 – 10 years
Tank Zone: Middle to upper levels
🌊 Water Parameters
Temperature: 25 – 29°C (77 – 84°F)
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Hardness: 3 – 10 dGH
TDS: 100 – 250 ppm
🐟 Characteristics
Body Shape: Elegant triangular shape with long flowing fins.
Coloration: Beautiful white or silvery base body adorned with vibrant orange or red patches on the head and upper body, along with irregular black marbling on the body and fins.
Fins: Long and graceful, often tipped with black or orange highlights.
Eyes: Usually red or bright orange, enhancing the contrast.
Behavior: Calm, social, and graceful swimmer; can show mild territorial behavior during breeding.
Unique Feature: The name “Koi” comes from its color resemblance to Koi carp, with the combination of white, orange, and black markings.
🍽️ Diet
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: High-quality flakes, color-enhancing pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Feeding Frequency: Twice daily in small portions.
Tip: Foods rich in carotenoids (like krill or spirulina) enhance the orange coloration.
🛠️ Tank Maintenance
Tank Size: Minimum 120 liters (30 gallons) for a pair; 200 liters+ for community setups.
Filtration: Gentle flow with strong biological filtration.
Substrate: Smooth sand or fine gravel.
Decor: Planted aquariums with tall plants, driftwood, and open swimming spaces.
Lighting: Moderate to bright — highlights the orange and black patterns beautifully.
Water Change: 25–35% weekly to maintain water clarity.
👥 Social Behavior
Nature: Peaceful community fish; territorial when breeding.
Tank Mates: Works well with Corydoras, Rainbowfish, Mollies, Gouramis, and peaceful Barbs and Tetras.
Avoid: Fin-nippers or aggressive Cichlids.
Breeding: Forms pairs; lays eggs on vertical surfaces such as plant leaves or glass.
✅ Do’s
• Keep in warm, stable water conditions.
• Provide balanced diet with both plant and protein food.
• Maintain low to moderate lighting for natural color display.
❌ Don’ts
• Don’t keep with aggressive or fast-moving fish.
• Avoid overfeeding or poor water quality.
• Don’t keep in small or unfiltered tanks.
⭐ Quick Tip:
The Koi Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is one of the most colorful and sought-after angelfish varieties. Its vivid orange, white, and black pattern gives it a stunning, artistic appearance reminiscent of Koi carp — making it a centerpiece fish in any aquarium setup.
