Blue Koi Paraiba Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)

Blue Koi Paraiba Angelfish — Pterophyllum scalare

Electric blue meets koi brilliance

The Blue Koi Paraiba Angelfish is a high-end designer strain that blends warm koi-style splashes with intense Paraiba blue iridescence. A pearly white to soft silver base is accented by bold orange koi patches, while the Paraiba gene adds shimmering electric blue highlights across the body and fins. Under proper lighting, the blue flashes dramatically against the warm orange markings, creating a vibrant, layered look that changes with every turn.

Like all Pterophyllum scalare, this variety carries the iconic tall, triangular body and flowing finnage that give angelfish their timeless elegance. The Blue Koi Paraiba glides calmly through the water column, hovering among wood and plants before pivoting with precision. In groups, they create a dynamic display of mixed blue shimmer and koi patterning that instantly elevates a show tank.

Growing to 6 inches in body length with much taller finnage, they remain peaceful for their size while displaying classic angelfish intelligence and mild social hierarchy.

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Aquarium Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 55 gallons (75+ gallons recommended for groups)

• Tank Height: Minimum 20 inches tall preferred

• Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

• Décor: Driftwood, plants, vertical structure

• Flow: Low to moderate

• Lighting: Moderate (enhances Paraiba blue and koi contrast)

• Filtration: Strong but gentle flow

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Tank Mates

Best with calm, non-aggressive species:

• Tetras

• Corydoras

• Peaceful plecos

• Eartheaters

• Discus (similar water parameters)

Avoid fin-nipping species and aggressive cichlids.

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Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to medium

• Water Quality: Clean and stable conditions preferred

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Diet

Omnivorous:

• High-quality flakes or pellets

• Frozen brine shrimp and bloodworms

• Occasional vegetable-based foods