Red Devil Angelfish

Red Devil Angelfish is a beautiful colour strain of Pterophyllum scalare, prized for its fiery red to orange tones and classic tall-bodied angelfish shape. This freshwater ornamental fish stands out in planted aquariums and display tanks, especially when given calm surroundings, good water quality, and enough vertical swimming space. It suits hobbyists who want a graceful centerpiece fish with bold colour and elegant movement.

Compared to many small community fish, Red Devil Angelfish grows taller and develops long flowing fins, so it does best in a properly sized aquarium with stable filtration and peaceful to semi-peaceful tank mates. Its colour can look deeper and more intense under quality lighting, dark backgrounds, and a balanced diet. As with most angelfish, juveniles are easier to settle into community tanks before they become territorial with age.

Key Features

• Appearance: Tall, laterally compressed angelfish body with long dorsal, anal, and trailing fins that give it a graceful, premium display look.
• Size: Commonly sold as a juvenile, but can grow to around 15 cm body length with greater overall height including fins in a home aquarium.
• Colors: Selectively bred for striking deep red to orange coloration, often with stronger colour development as the fish matures in good conditions.
• Lifespan: With proper care, angelfish can live for several years and become a long-term feature fish in a freshwater setup.
• Temperament: Generally calm to semi-aggressive; may become territorial during pairing or breeding and can outcompete very small fish.
• Water Type: Freshwater species best kept in clean, well-filtered aquariums with steady parameters and low stress.

Care Requirements

• Tank Size: A tank of at least 75 to 100 litres is recommended for juveniles, while larger tanks are better for adults or groups because angelfish need both swimming room and height.
• Water Parameters: Ideal temperature is around 24 to 30°C with a pH near 6.5 to 7.5. Sudden swings in temperature or water chemistry should be avoided.
• Diet: Feed a varied omnivorous diet including quality flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods, and occasional protein-rich treats to support colour and healthy growth.
• Tank Mates: Best with peaceful to moderately active fish that are not fin nippers. Avoid very tiny tank mates that may be seen as food and aggressive species that harass long fins.
• Care Tips: Maintain regular water changes, provide plants or vertical décor for security, and avoid overcrowding to reduce territorial stress and fin damage.
• Aquascape: A planted tank with open swimming space works very well. Taller tanks help show off the fish’s body shape and finnage more naturally.

For best results, acclimate Red Devil Angelfish slowly after arrival and add it only to a cycled aquarium. Strong filtration, clean water, and a calm environment will help this angelfish settle quickly and display its best colour and form.