Red Devil Angelfish - Pterophyllum scalare

Red Devil Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

The Red Devil Angelfish, Pterophyllum scalare, is a dramatic captive-bred freshwater angelfish variety selected for strong red to orange colouration, bold dark markings and the tall, elegant body shape that makes angelfish such popular centrepiece fish. Like other domestic angelfish, it is peaceful for a cichlid when kept correctly, but adults can become territorial during pairing or breeding. This strain is best suited to a mature tropical aquarium with height, stable water quality, calm tank mates and plenty of cover.

Common Name:
Red Devil Angelfish, Red Angelfish, Red Devil Angel, Freshwater Angelfish, Scalare Angelfish.

Scientific Name (Latin):
Pterophyllum scalare
Captive-bred Red Devil colour form.

Maximum Size:
Usually around 12–15 cm body length, with a much taller overall profile when the dorsal and anal fins are included.

Water Type:
Freshwater

Origin / Natural Habitat:
The Red Devil Angelfish is a captive-bred ornamental strain and does not occur as a natural wild population. The wild species, Pterophyllum scalare, is native to tropical South America, where it inhabits swamps, flooded areas and slow-moving waters with dense aquatic and marginal vegetation. FishBase records the species from clear or silty vegetated habitats and lists a maximum length of 15 cm.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–28°C
pH Range: 6.0–7.5
Hardness or Salinity: Soft to moderately hard freshwater; captive-bred angelfish are adaptable, but stable conditions and good water quality are essential.

Temperament:
Peaceful to semi-territorial. Young angelfish are often sociable and can be grown on in groups, while adults may form pairs and defend a chosen area. They are not suitable with very tiny fish that may fit into their mouths, and they should not be mixed with aggressive or persistent fin-nipping tank mates.

Diet:
Omnivorous with a strong carnivorous element. Offer quality tropical flakes, cichlid granules, micro pellets, frozen bloodworm, brineshrimp, mysis, daphnia and mosquito larvae. Occasional spirulina or vegetable-based foods can be included for variety. A mixed diet helps maintain colour, body condition and fin quality.

Minimum Tank Size:
A minimum of 180 litres is recommended for a pair or small group of juveniles, with larger aquariums preferred for adult groups. A tall aquarium is important, as angelfish need height as well as swimming room. Seriously Fish recommends a minimum aquarium footprint and height of around 100 × 40 × 50 cm for adult Pterophyllum scalare.

Behaviour & Activity:
A graceful mid-water cichlid that cruises between plants, wood, roots and open swimming areas. Juveniles often behave socially, but mature fish may pair off and become more territorial. Breeding pairs may lay eggs on broad plant leaves, vertical wood, filter pipes or aquarium glass and guard the site closely.

Aquarium Category:
Semi-Aggressive
Best kept with peaceful, non-nipping tank mates such as larger tetras, peaceful rasboras, Corydoras, small to medium gouramis, rainbowfish, non-aggressive catfish and other calm community fish. Avoid tiger barbs and other fin-nippers, very small fish such as tiny neon-sized tank mates, aggressive cichlids and boisterous fish that may stress them.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
Provide a mature, well-filtered tropical aquarium with stable water conditions, gentle to moderate flow and plenty of vertical cover. Tall plants, bogwood, roots and shaded areas help angelfish feel secure. The red colouration can vary between individuals and may improve with maturity, good nutrition, clean water and suitable lighting. Avoid sharp decor, rough ornaments and overcrowding.

Suitable for:
Beginner to intermediate fishkeepers

Availability:
Occasional in trade / Captive-bred strain

All images are a visual representation of the fish you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.