Pearlscale Blushing Angel 4.5cm

Pearlscale Blushing Angel

Angelfish have remained one of the most recognisable freshwater aquarium fish for decades, and selective breeding has resulted in an almost endless range of colours and patterns. One fascinating thing about angelfish is that some strains have also been selectively bred for differences in their scale structure, not just their colour. The Pearlscale Blushing Angelfish combines two of these traits, producing a fish with beautiful reflective scales and the characteristic pink to red cheeks that give blushing angelfish their name.

The Pearlscale Blushing Angelfish generally displays a pale silver to creamy white body, which provides the perfect base for its incredible scale patterning. Unlike the relatively flat scales of a standard angelfish, the pearlscale trait produces raised and highly reflective scales which catch aquarium lighting and give the body an almost textured metallic appearance. The blushing trait reduces pigmentation around the gill plates, allowing the red colour of the gills underneath to show through as a beautiful pink to crimson patch across either side of the face. Subtle gold, silver and even pale blue highlights can also shine through the body, depending on the individual. Against darker backgrounds, these lighter colours really stand out, whilst the pearlscale pattern becomes especially noticeable as the fish turns through the light.

Breeding Pearlscale Blushing Angelfish follows the same process as other domestic angelfish varieties. Males and females are incredibly difficult to distinguish when young, with the most reliable differences becoming apparent once a pair forms and begins spawning. The pair will clean a broad leaf, piece of slate or another vertical surface before the female deposits rows of adhesive eggs, which are fertilised by the male. Both parents will then guard the eggs and developing fry, making angelfish a fantastic species to breed in the home aquarium.

Tank Recommendations for your Pearlscale Blushing Angelfish

Pearlscale Blushing Angelfish are a medium-growing cichlid that can reach around 15 cm in height. A minimum aquarium size of 150 litres is recommended for a small group or breeding pair.

These fish appreciate taller aquariums that allow them to fully display their long finnage. Driftwood, broad-leaved plants and open swimming areas create an ideal environment, whilst darker substrates and backgrounds contrast particularly well against the pale body and reflective pearlscale patterning. Good filtration and regular water changes will keep these fish looking their absolute best.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Pearlscale Blushing Angelfish are peaceful cichlids and mix well with a wide variety of community fish.

Usually Compatible

Rummynose tetras, cardinal tetras, corydoras, bristlenose catfish, Congo tetras, pearl gouramis and other peaceful community fish that enjoy similar water conditions.

Sometimes Compatible

Rainbowfish, German blue rams, keyhole cichlids and larger peaceful tetras may coexist successfully in larger aquariums where there is plenty of swimming space.

Rarely Compatible

Tiger barbs, large aggressive cichlids, Oscars, Jaguar cichlids and other fin-nipping species should generally be avoided as they may damage the angelfish's long finnage or continually stress them.

Feeding your Pearlscale Blushing Angelfish

Pearlscale Blushing Angelfish are extremely easy to feed and will readily accept a wide variety of aquarium foods. The ideal diet would be a quality slow-sinking pellet or flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms, blackworms and brine shrimp to maintain excellent colour and body condition.