Koi Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare "Koi") Care Guide
The Koi Angelfish is a selectively bred color form of Pterophyllum scalare, a tall-bodied Amazonian cichlid for community aquariums.
Overview
The Koi Angelfish is a selectively bred color form of Pterophyllum scalare, the freshwater angelfish. It carries orange, white and black koi-like patterning on the typical tall, laterally compressed angelfish body. The underlying species is a cichlid native to the Amazon Basin.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cichlidae
- Genus: Pterophyllum
- Scientific name: Pterophyllum scalare "Koi"
- Note: "Koi" denotes a captive-bred color form, not a separate species
Habitat
Pterophyllum scalare is native to the Amazon Basin across Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana. It inhabits swamps and flooded areas with dense vegetation, where the water may be clear or silty, and prefers gentle water flow.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L (53 gal)
- Temperature: 24-29 °C (75-84 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Group size: at least 4 individuals
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
Pterophyllum scalare is omnivorous; wild fish feed predominantly on zoobenthos. Captive-bred angelfish accept pellets and flakes and relish live or frozen foods such as bloodworm and brine shrimp.
Compatibility
It is generally a peaceful cichlid that may squabble with its own kind and is best kept in small groups. Because adults may eat very small fish such as tiny tetras, those should be avoided as tank mates; otherwise it makes a good community fish.
Breeding
Angelfish are substrate spawners that lay eggs on vertical surfaces such as broad leaves, slate or glass. Pairs typically form from a group of juveniles raised together. Parents guard the eggs and fry; fry are offered newly hatched brine shrimp after they absorb their yolk sacs.