I am bringing to you the beauty of angelfish—how to care for them and how to breed them. My passion for angelfish started decades ago, and they’ve remained one of my favorite species to keep. There are so many varieties and different colors, and we’re going to show you a bunch of them in this article.

Introduction to Freshwater Angelfish

Here, we’ll be talking about the freshwater angelfish. The genus is Pterophyllum. There are a few different species, though we’re not going to dive into each species individually. Instead, I’ll show you lots of different variants.

Origin and Habitat

Angelfish originates from South America. They usually inhabit the Amazon River and its basin, where the water is relatively slow-flowing. The water is typically acidic with reduced hardness. However, it’s not essential to replicate these parameters exactly in an aquarium.

Angelfish Size and Tank Requirements

How Big Do Angelfish Get?

The body of an angelfish can be anywhere from 5 to 7 inches, and when you include their fins, they can be much larger. Fully grown angelfish, including their fins, can measure up to a foot in height.

Often, we see angelfish in pet stores when they’re the size of a nickel or quarter. While they look cute, they grow significantly larger. Therefore, smaller beginner tanks aren’t appropriate for full-grown angelfish.

Recommended Tank Sizes

In my opinion, a long-term setup should have a tank of at least 55 gallons. A taller tank is ideal due to their vertical body shape. Smaller tanks like 29 gallons can be suitable for younger fish, but larger tanks will be necessary as they mature.

Variety and Appearance of Angelfish

Fin Shapes and Colors

Angelfish come in a variety of fin shapes, such as veil tails with long, flowing fins and standard angelfish with shorter fins. Their colors include black, pearl-scale, blue, striped, albino, and more. Their striking coloration and unique body shape make them a favorite among aquarists.

Tank Mates for Angelfish

Compatible Tank Mates

When choosing tank mates, Avoid highly active species or fish known for fin-nipping behavior. Small fish like neon tetras, black neons, white skirt tetras, and emperor tetras work well. Larger tanks can house species like hatchet fish, clown loaches, and rasboras.

Tank Mates to Avoid

Avoid barbs, rainbow sharks, red tail sharks, and African cichlids, as they can stress or harm angelfish. Overly active species like tinfoil barbs and bala sharks should also be avoided.

Water Parameters for Angelfish

Ideal Conditions

For most store-bought angelfish, the ideal water parameters are:

• pH: 6–8
• Water hardness: 50–200 ppm

Wild-caught species like Pterophyllum altum may require softer water with lower pH. The most important factor is stable water parameters.

Feeding Angelfish

Angelfish are not picky eaters. They readily accept:

• Frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp
• Flakes and pellets
• They readily accept live baby brine shrimp, especially for fry.

Young angelfish eat eagerly, but adults may be slower feeders.

Decorating an Angelfish Tank

Angelfish thrive in tanks with:

• Substrates: Sand or gravel
• Decorations: Rocks and driftwood
• Plants: Anubias, Java fern, jungle Val, and crypts

Avoid strong water currents, as the body shape of angelfish makes them prone to stress in high-flow environments.

Breeding Angelfish

Egg-Laying and Fry Care

Angelfish lay eggs on leaves, filter intakes, or heaters. A terracotta breeding cone works well for breeding. New parents may eat their fry, so be prepared to intervene.

Feed fry live baby brine shrimp before transitioning to flake food. Angelfish produce hundreds of offspring, so it’s important to plan ahead for their care or find suitable buyers.

Key Information for Angelfish Care

Conclusion

Angelfish are graceful, colorful, and rewarding fish to keep. With the right setup, tank size, and compatible tank mates, they can thrive in your aquarium. I highly recommend them for anyone who can provide the proper care.