Blushing Red Koi-Sunset Angel 4.5cm

Blushing Red Koi Sunset Angelfish

There probably isn't a better example of how far selective breeding has taken the humble Angelfish than the Blushing Red Koi Sunset. Rather than displaying the silver body and dark vertical bars associated with wild Pterophyllum scalare, this variety has been selectively developed for brilliant orange-red colouration, irregular Koi patterning and the characteristic translucent gill plates of the Blushing trait. Every fish can develop slightly differently, making a mature group incredibly varied despite all belonging to the same strain.

The Blushing Red Koi Sunset Angelfish generally develops a creamy white to pale silver base covered with irregular patches of yellow, orange and increasingly rich red colouration. Juveniles may initially appear considerably paler, with much of the stronger orange and red pigmentation developing as the fish matures. Darker markings can occasionally appear across portions of the body depending on the individual, creating the unpredictable patterning that gives Koi Angelfish much of their appeal. The Blushing trait reduces pigmentation over the gill plates, allowing the underlying red gills to show through as distinctive pink to crimson cheeks. Combined with the warm Sunset colouration across the body, this can produce an incredibly vibrant adult fish. Against dark backgrounds and green plants, the oranges and reds become particularly noticeable.

Males and females can be extremely difficult to distinguish visually, particularly whilst young. The easiest method of obtaining a breeding pair is to raise several fish together and allow compatible individuals to pair naturally. Once formed, the pair will clean a broad leaf, piece of slate or another vertical surface before depositing and fertilising rows of adhesive eggs. Both parents will guard their spawning site and developing fry, becoming noticeably more territorial during this period.

Tank Recommendations for Your Blushing Red Koi Sunset Angelfish

Blushing Red Koi Sunset Angelfish can reach around 15 cm and develop considerable height once their fins are included. A minimum aquarium size of 150 litres is recommended for a small group or compatible breeding pair.

A taller aquarium containing driftwood, broad-leaved plants and plenty of open swimming space provides an excellent environment. Good filtration and regular water changes will help maintain their colour and finnage. Dark backgrounds are particularly effective with this strain as they contrast beautifully against the white, orange and red body colouration.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Blushing Red Koi Sunset Angelfish are peaceful cichlids and work extremely well in larger community aquariums.

Usually Compatible

Cardinal tetras, rummynose tetras, Corydoras, bristlenose catfish, Congo tetras, pearl gouramis and other peaceful community species too large to be considered prey.

Sometimes Compatible

German blue rams, keyhole cichlids, rainbowfish and larger peaceful tetras can work well where adequate space is available, although breeding Angelfish may defend the immediate area around their eggs.

Rarely Compatible

Tiger Barbs and other persistent fin nippers should generally be avoided. Oscars, Jaguar Cichlids and other large, aggressive species may also overpower or continually stress Angelfish.

Feeding Your Blushing Red Koi Sunset Angelfish

Blushing Red Koi Sunset Angelfish will readily accept pellets, flakes and frozen foods. A quality slow-sinking cichlid pellet or flake makes an excellent staple and can be supplemented with frozen bloodworms, blackworms and brine shrimp. A varied diet containing quality natural colour-enhancing ingredients will also help maintain the brilliant orange and red pigmentation of this strain.