Angelfish Care Guide
Pterophyllum scalare
Angelfish hero image
Use a sharp, accurately identified Angelfish photo in a natural freshwater aquarium setting.
Key Takeaways
- Angelfish needs at least 30 gallons, with 55 gallons preferred.
- Keep water between 24-28°C and pH 6-7.5.
- Plan tank mates carefully and avoid aggressive or fin-nipping fish.
Quick Facts
Difficulty: intermediate
Min Tank: 30 gallons
Size: 15 cm
Group: 1+
Temperature: 24-28°C
pH: 6-7.5
Temperament: semi aggressive
Swimming: middle
Diet: omnivore
Lifespan: 10-15 years
Care Overview
Angelfish are elegant, tall-bodied cichlids that are popular in community tanks. They can grow large and may eat very small fish.
Ideal Tank Setup
Angelfish tank setup image
Show the recommended 30+ gallon setup, substrate, hiding spots, and swimming area for Angelfish.
A 30+ gallon tall tank with plants and vertical swimming space. They prefer slightly acidic water. Include hiding spots and open swimming areas.
Diet and Feeding
Omnivores that eat cichlid pellets, flakes, and live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. Feed 2 times daily.
Best Tank Mates
- Larger tetras (not neons)
- Corydoras
- Gouramis
- Larger rasboras
Fish to Avoid
- Neon tetras (will be eaten)
- Small shrimp
- Fin-nipping fish
- Very aggressive cichlids
Common Problems
- Eating small tank mates
- Aggression when breeding
- Columnaris disease
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Using a tank smaller than 30 gallons, which makes water quality harder to keep stable.
- Ignoring adult size, group size, or temperament when choosing tank mates.
- Changing too much water or filter media at once before checking ammonia and nitrite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can angelfish eat neon tetras?
Yes. Adult angelfish can and will eat neon tetras. Avoid keeping them together.
Related Tools
Sources and Review Process
- Freshwater aquarium husbandry references for water quality, tank size, and stocking guidance.
- Species profiles and compatibility rules maintained in the TankWise data set.
- Aquarium health guidance is educational and should not replace an aquatic veterinarian for severe symptoms.