Albino Red Head Angel

Introduction: The Albino Red Head Angelfish is a stunning variant of the popular freshwater angelfish. With its unique albino coloration and bright red head, this angelfish is highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts for its striking appearance and graceful swimming behavior. Originating from the Amazon Basin, this variant has been selectively bred to enhance its unique traits while maintaining the elegant body shape of the angelfish species.

Scientific Name: The Albino Red Head Angelfish is scientifically known as Pterophyllum scalare. It is a selectively bred color variant of the common freshwater angelfish.

Water Quality and Temperature:

• Temperature: Keep the water temperature between 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C) to replicate the warm conditions of their natural habitat.
• pH Level: Maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH level of 6.5 to 7.0 for optimal health.
• Water Hardness: The ideal water hardness is soft to moderately hard, ranging from 3 to 8 dGH.

Feeding: The Albino Red Head Angelfish is an omnivorous species with a diet that should include a balance of plant and protein-based foods.

• Flake and Pellet Food: Offer high-quality angelfish flakes or pellets to provide essential nutrients.
• Live or Frozen Foods: Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia for additional protein.
• Vegetable Matter: Occasionally provide blanched spinach or spirulina-based foods to enhance their diet with plant matter.

Tank Mates: Albino Red Head Angelfish are generally peaceful but may display territorial behavior, especially during breeding. Ideal tank mates include other peaceful species such as tetras, gouramis, rasboras, and Corydoras catfish. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or fin-nipping fish, as angelfish have long, delicate fins that can easily be damaged.

Substrates and Tank Decorations: A sandy or fine gravel substrate is ideal for Albino Red Head Angelfish, as it mimics the soft riverbeds of their natural environment. Provide plenty of vertical decorations such as tall plants, driftwood, and rocks to replicate the structured habitat they enjoy. Angelfish are known for their slow and graceful swimming, so ensure the tank has ample open space for them to move around freely.

Suitable Plants: Albino Red Head Angelfish thrive in planted tanks with species like Amazon Sword, Vallisneria, Java Fern, and Anubias. These plants provide hiding places and create a natural setting that helps reduce stress. Live plants also aid in maintaining water quality by absorbing nitrates.

Sexing: Sexing Albino Red Head Angelfish can be difficult as males and females look similar. However, during the breeding season, females tend to develop a more rounded belly as they carry eggs, and the breeding tube becomes more pronounced. Males may appear slightly more slender and develop more pointed dorsal and anal fins.

Breeding: Breeding Albino Red Head Angelfish is similar to breeding other angelfish varieties. They form monogamous pairs and prefer to lay their eggs on broad-leafed plants or smooth vertical surfaces like rocks or tank walls. After spawning, the male fertilizes the eggs, and both parents guard them fiercely. The eggs typically hatch within 2 to 3 days, and the fry become free-swimming after about 5 days. Feed the fry with infusoria or specialized fry food until they are large enough to consume baby brine shrimp or crushed flakes.

Maximum Size and Longevity: Albino Red Head Angelfish can grow to a size of about 6 inches (15 cm) in length and height. With proper care, they can live for 8 to 10 years in captivity.

General Information: The Albino Red Head Angelfish is a unique and eye-catching fish that brings beauty and elegance to any freshwater aquarium. Its albino body, coupled with the vibrant red head, creates a visually stunning contrast that enhances the aesthetic of any tank. While peaceful, these angelfish should be provided with adequate space and appropriate tank mates to thrive in a community setting.

A Fun Fact: Albino Red Head Angelfish have poor pigmentation due to their albino genetics, which is why their bodies are a pale white or pinkish hue. However, the vibrant red color on their heads remains, creating a striking appearance that makes them stand out among other angelfish varieties.