Care guide, husbandry, breeding, disease, and sourcing intelligence on Koi Angelfish - written by the Fast Aquatics editorial team.
Koi Angelfish at a glance
Adult size: 6 inches · Min tank/pond: 55 gallons · Difficulty: intermediate · Diet: omnivore · Lifespan: 8-10 years.
Koi Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare (var)) is a popular freshwater fish in the aquarium and pond hobby. Suitable for keepers with 6-12 months of stable-tank experience.
Where Koi Angelfish comes from
Koi Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare (var)) is native to specific tropical and subtropical freshwater systems. Captive-bred specimens at most LFS come from generations of farmed stock and are generally hardier and more colorful than wild-caught equivalents.
Koi Angelfish tank size and setup
Koi Angelfish requires a minimum of 55 gallons for healthy adults. The minimum is based on 6 inches adult size and territorial range. Plan a tank sized for adult footprint, HOB or canister filter rated 4-6x volume, dechlorinated water, appropriate temperature heater, and stocking-appropriate hardscape.
Water parameters for Koi Angelfish
Koi Angelfish prefers freshwater parameters: temperature 74-80°F, pH 6.5-7.5, GH 4-12 dGH, KH 3-8 dKH, ammonia + nitrite 0 ppm, nitrate under 20 ppm. Use dechlorinator on every water change.
What Koi Angelfish eats
Koi Angelfish is a omnivore. Provide a varied diet of pellets, frozen foods, and supplemental greens. Feed twice daily in small portions. Browse our food guides for product recommendations.
Koi Angelfish tankmates and compatibility
Koi Angelfish works in community tanks with peaceful species in similar size class. Avoid mixing aggressive with passive species.
Koi Angelfish adult size and lifespan
Koi Angelfish reaches 6 inches at adulthood with a captive lifespan of 8-10 years with proper care.
Can you breed Koi Angelfish?
Koi Angelfish can be bred in dedicated breeding tanks with appropriate setup and water-chemistry triggers. Research the species-specific breeding requirements before attempting.
Common Koi Angelfish diseases and problems
Koi Angelfish is susceptible to standard freshwater diseases (ich, columnaris, fin rot, bacterial infections). Quarantine new Koi Angelfish for 4 weeks before adding to display.
Where to buy Koi Angelfish online
Koi Angelfish is sold at LFS, online retailers, and direct from breeders. Browse live Koi Angelfish from vetted Fast Aquatics vendors with carrier-tracked overnight shipping, climate-aware hold logic, and a 4-hour DOA window with photo-evidence claims.
Related freshwater species you might also keep
Other species in the same category with care profiles on Fast Aquatics. Click any name for the full husbandry breakdown.