Redcap Angelfish

Redcap Angelfish (Pterophyllum Scalare)

The Redcap Angelfish is a stunning beauty known for its unique red cap that adorns its head. Its body is a mesmerizing display of contrast, with the red cap standing out against a lighter body, creating a mysterious ambiance in any aquatic environment.

The unique red cap trait makes this angelfish a standout. Each Redcap Angelfish is a unique, tranquil presence, reaching up to 6 inches in adulthood. This angelfish variety adds a touch of mystery and depth, making it a prized addition to any aquarium.

Angelfish are known to shoal rather than school and appreciate the company of their own kind. A group of 5 to 6 individuals creates a sense of security and reduces squabbling. While generally peaceful fish, but can be aggressive in overcrowded aquariums, in small group sizes, or during the breeding season.

Opportunistic in nature, angelfish will eat anything that fits into their mouth. Suitable tank mates include larger tetras and rasboras, gouramis, peaceful barbs, rainbowfish, corydoras, and other medium-sized catfish. Avoid housing them with smaller fish, fin-nipping, or aggressive fish.

Their diet should include a mix of high-quality flakes, pellets, brine shrimp, bloodworms, krill, daphnia, and plant matter.

The ideal habitat for these fish features a soft, sandy substrate or fine dark natural-colored gravel. Their tank should be well-planted with tall, broad-leaved plants like Amazon Sword, Java Fern, Jungle Vallisneria, and Corkscrew Vallisneria. Shorter groundcover plants like Microsword and Java Fern add aesthetic appeal. Vertically shaped driftwood, smooth rocks, and slate inclined at an angle provide natural hiding spots and encourage egg-laying behavior.

Lighting for angelfish should be moderate to mimic the dappled sunlight of their natural habitat and accentuates their vibrant colors. Including shaded and secluded spots within the tank allows them to seek shelter and retreat from direct lighting when desired.

Angelfish prefer a tank with ample open vertical space, allowing them to glide freely through the water at various levels. Therefore, providing a vertically oriented aquarium will accommodate their natural swimming behavior and enhance their overall comfort.

The minimum aquarium size for these fish is 55 gallons, but a community aquarium should ideally be 100 gallons or more. They prefer warm, soft, slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.0- 7.5, a hardness within the 5- 12 dGH range, and a temperature of 76- 86°F (24-30°C).

Angelfish thrive in an aquarium environment with minimal water movement. However, it is important to have sufficient water flow which properly distributes gases and nutrients throughout the tank. Most canister and power filters provide a gentle water flow well suited for angelfish. If you notice that your fish are straining or struggling to swim due to the filters current, it may be necessary to adjust the return flow to reduce its strength.

Due to their quick movements when startled, a tight-fitting lid is recommended to prevent them from leaping out of the tank.