Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
Minimum Tank
30 Gallons
Adult Size
6 inches
Temperature
76-84°F (24-29°C)
pH Range
6.0-7.5
Lifespan
10 years
About Angelfish
Freshwater angelfish are elegant cichlids native to the Amazon River basin, where they inhabit slow-moving, heavily vegetated waters among submerged tree roots and overhanging vegetation. Their tall, laterally compressed bodies and long, flowing fins allow them to navigate gracefully through dense aquatic plants. Wild angelfish display silver bodies with dark vertical bars that serve as camouflage, while captive breeding has produced varieties including marble, koi, black, and platinum. Angelfish are intelligent and can recognize their owners, often swimming to the front of the tank at feeding time. They form monogamous breeding pairs and both parents actively guard their eggs and fry.
Care Requirements
Tank Setup
- • Minimum 30-gallon tank required
- • Temperature: 76-84°F (24-29°C)
- • pH: 6.0 - 7.5
- • Category: Cichlid
Diet & Feeding
- • Diet type: Omnivore
- • Feed 1-2 times daily
- • Varied diet recommended
Tank Mate Compatibility
Compatible With
Avoid Keeping With
Care Tips
Expert Tips
Angelfish need a tall tank of at least 30 gallons due to their vertical body shape, with a minimum height of 18 inches. Keep them in groups of five or more when young to allow natural pair formation, but be prepared to separate aggressive pairs during breeding. Avoid housing them with small fish like neon tetras, which adult angelfish may eat. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with temperatures around 78-82°F. Provide tall plants like Amazon swords and vertical driftwood for them to feel secure. Feed a varied diet of quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. Watch for hexamita, a parasitic disease that causes hole-in-the-head symptoms.
Quick Facts
114L
Min Tank (30gal)
15cm
Adult Size (6")
10yr
Lifespan
1+
Can Keep Solo
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Tank Mates for Angelfish
Species from our database with overlapping water parameters, compatible temperaments and a realistic shared tank size.
Similar Care Level
Other moderate-care species that suit a comparable setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tank does a Angelfish need?
A Angelfish needs a minimum tank size of 30 gallons (114 litres).
What water parameters does a Angelfish need?
Angelfish thrive in water between 76-84°F (24-29°C) with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
Are Angelfish easy to care for?
Angelfish are considered moderate to care for. They are semi-aggressive fish with a lifespan of about 10 years.
How big do Angelfish get and what do they eat?
Angelfish reach about 6 inches and are omnivores. Angelfish need a tall tank of at least 30 gallons due to their vertical body shape, with a minimum height of 18 inches. Keep them in groups of five or more when young to allow natural pair formation, but be prepared to separate aggressive pairs during breeding. Avoid housing them with small fish like neon tetras, which adult angelfish may eat. They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with temperatures around 78-82°F. Provide tall plants like Amazon swords and vertical driftwood for them to feel secure. Feed a varied diet of quality flakes, pellets, and frozen foods. Watch for hexamita, a parasitic disease that causes hole-in-the-head symptoms.