(157) Albino red cap angelfish

An albino red cap angelfish is a selectively bred variety of the freshwater angelfish, Pterophyllum scalare. It is prized by aquarists for its striking, semi-translucent white body and vibrant red or orange crown on its head. Like all albino fish, it lacks dark pigment (melanin) but retains other colors, which is what allows for the distinctive "red cap"

• Appearance: The body is pearlescent white or pinkish, and its eyes are a bright pinkish-red due to the lack of dark pigment. This creates a stunning contrast with the intense red or orange "cap" on its forehead.
• Size and lifespan: An adult can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) in height and length. With proper care, its lifespan can be 10–12 years.
• Temperament: Generally peaceful, albino red cap angelfish can become territorial during breeding. They are cichlids, so aggression is possible, especially in an overcrowded aquarium.
• Origin: Like other angelfish, this variant is a product of selective breeding and is a captive-bred descendant of fish originally from the Amazon basin. 

• Tank size: A minimum of 30 gallons (113 liters) is recommended for a pair, but a larger tank of 55 gallons or more is ideal for groups or community setups.
• Tank height: Angelfish have tall bodies and prefer deeper tanks with plenty of vertical swimming space.
• Decor: The tank should be well-planted with vertical structures like driftwood, rocks, and broad-leaved plants to provide hiding places. Floating plants can help diffuse light.
• Substrate: A fine-to-medium-grade, smooth-surfaced gravel or sand is best, as angelfish will forage along the bottom.
• Lighting: Albino angelfish are sensitive to bright light. Providing shaded areas with plants or floating decor is essential for their comfort.
• Water flow: They prefer calmer, slow-moving water, so position your filter or wave maker to avoid strong currents. 

• Temperature: Maintain a tropical temperature between 75°F and 82°F (24°C–28°C).
• pH: A slightly acidic to neutral pH is preferred, with a range of 6.5–7.5.
• Hardness: Keep the water soft to moderately hard.
• Water quality: Consistent, pristine water is crucial. Perform regular weekly water changes of 20–30% and ensure efficient filtration. 

• Omnivorous diet: Feed them a varied diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, and occasional live or frozen foods, such as bloodworms and brine shrimp.
• Frequency: Feed small portions two to three times daily. 

• Compatibility: Choose peaceful, non-aggressive fish of a similar size. Good companions include larger tetras, corydoras catfish, peaceful barbs, and gouramis.
• Incompatible tank mates: Avoid keeping them with fin-nipping fish, such as tiger barbs, or very small fish that could be eaten. 

• Pairing: Angelfish naturally form monogamous pairs. Starting with a group of 4–6 juveniles is the best way to encourage a pair to form.
• Spawning: To encourage breeding, increase the tank temperature and provide a smooth, vertical surface, such as a broad plant leaf or a spawning cone, for the pair to lay their eggs on.
• Parental care: Angelfish are egg layers and will fiercely guard their eggs and fry. However, many captive-bred angelfish have lost this instinct and may eat their young. For higher survival rates, breeders often separate the eggs into a separate tank