If you’re struggling to find suitable tank mates for your Angelfish, you’re not alone. Many aquarium enthusiasts know that these beautiful freshwater cichlids need specific companions in their habitat.
This article will guide you through the best and worst tank mates for your Angelfish, ensuring a peaceful community tank environment. Ready to dive into the world of aquascaping? Let’s get started!
What Is the Ideal Environment for Angelfish?
Angelfish love warm water. They like a tank that is set to 78 to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. It should be big, no less than 20 gallons. The more space they have, the better they will feel.
Angelfish also need clean water. A good filter can keep the water nice and clear for them.
Plants make angelfish happy too. Live plants are best because they help to keep the tank clean. Soft or low lights are good for angelfish as well. These fish don’t like bright light very much.
Softer light keeps them calm and stress-free.
Are Angelfish Good Tank Mates?
Angelfish can be good tank mates. They are calm and do not harm smaller fish. Their mouths are small, so they cannot eat their tank friends. Still, you need to pick the right pals for them.
All fish have things they like and don’t like. Angelfish enjoy warm water and slow-flowing streams, just like Gouramis do. Gouramis make great friends for angelfish because they both love the same things.
Corydoras catfish could also live with your angelfish in a 36-gallon tank or bigger one without problems.
What Are the Best Tank Mates for Angelfish?
Angelfish do well with many friends in their tank. They blend in best with fish that share the same living space and habits. The Boesemani Rainbow Fish is a top pick for Angelfish mates.
This fish loves calm waters like the Angelfish.
Corydoras Catfish also live nicely with Angelfish. These catfish stay on the bottom of the tank, leaving space for Angelfish to swim up high. Dwarf Gourami can also share a home with Angelfish without problems.
Another good friend for Angelfish is Praecox Rainbow Fish. Both enjoy swimming around plants and wooded areas in tanks. Small fish from where they come from are great too! Neons school together and get along very well with our pointed fin friends.
Remember, it’s not just about size or look but how they act that makes them fit right.
Rummy Nose Tetras
Rummy Nose Tetras are peaceful freshwater fish that make great tank mates for Angelfish. They are compatible with other peaceful species of similar size, such as Cherry Barbs and Green Neon Tetras.
It is recommended to keep Rummy Nose Tetras in schools, as they do well in groups. These tetras have a distinctive red nose, which adds a beautiful pop of color to the aquarium. With their semi-transparent greenish tint under normal conditions, Rummy Nose Tetras are a visually striking addition to any community tank.
1. Boesemani Rainbow Fish
Boesemani Rainbow Fish is a great choice as a tank mate for Angelfish. They thrive in similar water conditions, making it easier to maintain their environment. Boesemani Rainbow Fish are not demanding pets, but you must ensure good water quality for their health.
They belong to the Melanotaenia boesemani species and have a peaceful temperament, although occasional squabblesmay occur among themselves.
2. Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras catfish are social fish that like to be with their friends. It’s important to keep them in groups of at least 5 of the same kind. These catfish are peaceful and they can get along well with angelfish.
They stay close to the bottom of the tank and eat leftover food and debris, helping to keep the tank clean. Corydoras catfish can live in different types of water conditions, which makes it easier for them to adapt to different tank setups.
One special thing about these catfish is that they’re known for being playful and active swimmers in the tank.
3. Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf gouramis are small and peaceful fish that can be great tank mates for angelfish. They have a calm nature and get along well with other fish, including angelfish. Dwarf gouramis are hardy and can adapt to different water conditions, making them easy to care for.
These colorful fish come in various shades like red, blue, and yellow, adding a vibrant touch to your aquarium. While they usually display peaceful behavior, male dwarf gouramis may occasionally show some aggression, especially during breeding season.
Despite this, they generally make excellent companions for angelfish due to their similar habitat preferences.
4. Kuhli Loach
Kuhli loaches are small, peaceful fish that make great tank mates for angelfish. These bottom-dwelling fish are a popular choice because of their gentle nature. Kuhli loaches thrive in freshwater environments and can coexist peacefully with other fish that have a similar temperament.
They are readily available in pet stores and are an affordable option for adding variety to your angelfish tank.
5. Rosy Tetras
Rosy tetras are a great choice as tank mates for angelfish. They have similar water chemistry needs, making it easier to create an ideal environment for both fish. Rosy tetras are known for their beautiful colors and active nature.
They peacefully coexist with angelfish and enjoy swimming together in the tank. These tetras are also quite playful, often seen exploring and frolicking with their tank mates. They have a similar diet to angelfish, which makes feeding them convenient too.
Overall, rosy tetras make a lovely addition to an angelfish community tank.
6. Black Skirt Tetra
The Black Skirt Tetra is a popular and peaceful tank mate for Angelfish. These tetras are small, growing to about 2.5 inches in size, making them a good fit for the Angelfish tank.
They belong to the Characidae family and can be kept with other tetra species, danios, rasboras, and other peaceful fish. The minimum tank size recommended is 15 gallons to provide enough space for these active swimmers.
With their striking black coloration on their lower bodies and flowing fins, they add beauty and vibrancy to the aquarium.
7. Bleeding Heart Tetra
Bleeding Heart Tetras are a great choice as tank mates for Angelfish. They can tolerate the same water parameters, which makes it easier to keep them together in the same tank. Bleeding Heart Tetras should be kept in a suitable-sized tank that provides enough space for their needs.
These freshwater fish are known for their vibrant red coloration, which adds beauty to any aquarium. One of the best things about Bleeding Heart Tetras is that they are peaceful and not territorial, making them compatible with Angelfish and other community fish species.
8. Hatchetfish
Hatchetfish are peaceful and won’t bother angelfish. They are top-dwelling fish that tend to coexist well with angelfish in the same tank. The Common Hatchetfish is a better choice as a community tank mate compared to the Silver Hatchetfish because it is less shy.
However, specific tank sizes for hatchetfish and angelfish are not mentioned in the information provided.
9. Discus Fish
Discus fish can be good tank mates for angelfish, but there are some things to consider. Angelfish can be more aggressive than discus fish, so it’s important to provide enough space and hiding spots in the tank.
It’s also crucial to maintain suitable water conditions for both species. Discus fish require warm water with a temperature between 82-86°F (28-30°C), while angelfish prefer slightly cooler temperatures around 76-82°F (24-28°C).
Proper acclimation and monitoring of their behavior is necessary when introducing them into the same tank. By taking these precautions, you can successfully keep discus fish with your angelfish as compatible tank mates.
10. German Blue Ram
German Blue Rams are popular freshwater fish known for their vibrant blue coloration. They make excellent tank mates for angelfish because they have similar water and habitat requirements.
German Blue Rams are peaceful and generally get along well with other community fish. They can coexist with male platies, Harlequin Rasboras, and Cardinal tetras in the same tank. Additionally, Electric Blue Rams are also ideal tank mates for German Blue Rams.
When choosing tank mates for your German Blue Ram, consider their compatibility in terms of temperament, size, diet, and water parameters to ensure a harmonious community tank.
11. Bolivian Ram
Bolivian Rams are great tank mates for Angelfish. They are peaceful and won’t cause any trouble in the aquarium. Bolivian Rams can live harmoniously with Angelfish without any aggression or conflicts.
In fact, they make excellent companions in a community tank. If you have a 55-gallon tank, you can keep Bolivian Rams together with your Angelfish without any problems.
12. Harlequin Rasbora
Harlequin rasboras are peaceful fish that make great tank mates for angelfish. They are known for their colorful appearance and their ability to school together in the water column.
These fish are native to Singapore, Malaysia, Sumatra, and southern Thailand. They are popular among aquarium hobbyists because they are easy to care for and suitable for beginners.
With their peaceful nature, harlequin rasboras can create a harmonious community tank with angelfish.
13. Cardinal Tetra
Cardinal Tetras are colorful and peaceful fish that can be great tank mates for Angelfish. These tropical aquarium fish have vibrant blue and red colors, which add beauty to any tank.
They are known to get along well with Angelfish because they share similar water parameters and temperaments. It’s recommended to keep Cardinal Tetras in groups of at least six, as this helps reduce stress from more aggressive tank mates.
Both Cardinal Tetras and Angelfish are hardy fish that can thrive together, creating a visually appealing and peaceful environment in your freshwater community tank.
14. Cherry Barb
Cherry barbs are a popular choice as tank mates for angelfish. These small, brightly colored fish have a peaceful temperament that makes them compatible with a variety of species. Whether you’re an experienced fish keeper or just starting out, cherry barbs are hardy and easy to care for.
Keeping them in groups can help reduce aggression and stress in your angelfish tank. With their vibrant colors and peaceful nature, cherry barbs make great companions for angelfish.
What Fish Should Not Be Kept With Angelfish?
Some fish should not be kept with angelfish because they may cause problems. Goldfish should not be kept with angelfish as they have different temperature and water requirements. Betta fish, tiger barbs, and green tiger barbs are also not recommended as tank mates for angelfish because they can be aggressive and nip at the long fins of the angelfish.
Large, aggressive cichlids should be avoided as well, as they may harm or kill the smaller and more peaceful angelfish. Similarly, small nippy fish like some species of tetras can stress out the angelfish.
Bottom-dwelling fish like the red-tailed shark or aggressive killifish are also not suitable tank mates for angelfish because of their territorial behavior. Additionally, it’s best to avoid keeping small fish fry or very small nano species with adult angelfish to prevent them from being eaten.
So it’s important to choose compatible tank mates for your angelfish to ensure a harmonious community tank environment.
1. Goldfish
Goldfish are peaceful freshwater fish that get along well with their tank mates. They are not territorial, so they won’t fight or become aggressive towards other fish in the tank. Goldfish come from different regions and have unique adaptations to their environments.
It’s important to note that goldfish prefer cooler water compared to other tropical fish, so it’s best to keep them with other goldfish or species that have similar care needs.
2. Betta Fish
Betta fish are not a good choice as tank mates for angelfish. They can be aggressive and may harm the angelfish, especially if the angelfish have long fins. The similar body shape of bettas and angelfish can lead to fighting between them.
It’s best to avoid keeping bettas and angelfish together to ensure the safety of both fish.
3. Tiger Barbs and Green Tiger Barbs
Tiger Barbs and Green Tiger Barbs are known for their semi-aggressive behavior. They may not be the best tank mates for Angelfish because they can nip at the Angelfish’s fins. However, it’s important to note that Angelfish can also be aggressive and overpower Tiger Barbs if they feel threatened.
If you still want to keep them together, consider adding Clown Plecos as tank mates. These plecos are similar in size to Tiger Barbs and can live peacefully with them in larger tanks.
Tetras and Cherry Barbs are generally good options too because they have a similar size and temperament to Tiger Barbs.
4. Large, Aggressive Cichlids
Large, aggressive cichlids can be a problem for angelfish in the same tank. These cichlids are known to have territorial and aggressive behaviors towards other fish, including angelfish.
Their size and aggression can pose a threat to the well-being and safety of angelfish. It’s important to avoid keeping large, aggressive cichlids with angelfish in order to maintain harmony and peace in the aquarium community.
5. Small, Nippy Fish
Small, nippy fish like tiger barbs and Serpae tetras should be avoided as tank mates for angelfish. These small fish have a tendency to nip at the long, flowing fins of the angelfish, which can cause stress and harm.
It is important to choose peaceful companions for your angelfish to ensure their well-being and prevent injuries or health issues.
6. Bottom-Dwelling Fish Like the Red-Tailed Shark or Aggressive Killifish
Bottom-dwelling fish like the Red-Tailed Shark or Aggressive Killifish should not be kept with Angelfish. These types of fish are known for their territorial behavior, which can lead to aggression towards other tank mates.
The Red-Tailed Shark is particularly aggressive towards other aquarium fish, including Angelfish. As they age, these bottom-dwelling fish become even more territorial and hostile towards others in the tank.
It is best to avoid keeping them together to prevent conflicts and stress among the fish.
7. Small Fish Fry and Very Small Nano Species
Small fish fry and very small nano species are not suitable tank mates for angelfish. These tiny fish are at risk of being seen as food by the larger and more aggressive angelfish.
There can also be competition for resources such as food and hiding spaces in the tank. It’s best to avoid keeping small fish fry or nano species with angelfish to ensure their safety and well-being.
How to Introduce New Fish to a Angelfish Tank?
Are you a fan of angelfish but not sure which fish can coexist with them? Angelfish tank mates can be tricky to find, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Did you know that Boesemani Rainbow Fish is a suitable tank mate for Angelfish? They share similar water conditions and peacefully coexist in the same tank. In this blog post, we will explore the best tank mates for Angelfish and provide tips on introducing new fish to your aquarium. So let’s dive in and discover the perfect companions for your angelfish!
Feeding Angelfish: Dietary Requirements and Impact on Tank Mates
Angelfish have specific dietary requirements that need to be met in order for them to thrive. They can be fed a variety of fish foods, including krill flakes, freeze-dried bloodworms, and tubifex.
Dried food like pellets are also suitable for angelfish, as well as frozen foods. It’s important to provide a balanced dietthat includes fish flakes or pellets, along with live or frozen foods.
When it comes to feeding angelfish, it’s best to offer small amounts of food at a time to prevent any uneaten food from contaminating the water. Uneaten food can lead to poor water quality and negatively impact the health of both the angelfish and their tank mates.
Choosing the right tank mates for angelfish also requires consideration of their dietary needs. Ensuring compatibility between species is crucial for maintaining harmony in the aquarium.
By selecting fish that have similar diets and eating habits, you can minimize competition for resources and reduce aggression amongst tank mates.
Overall, providing a well-rounded diet for your angelfish and choosing compatible tank mates will promote healthy growth and ensure a peaceful coexistence in your community aquarium.
Angelfish Behavior With Different Tank Mates: What to Expect?
Angelfish have a peaceful temperament, but they can still assert themselves if necessary. When it comes to tank mates, angelfish prefer companions that are similar in size and temperament.
They generally get along well with peaceful fish like tetras, rasboras, mollies, and catfish. However, it’s important to be cautious about introducing more aggressive or territorial fish into the same tank as angelfish.
Aggressive cichlids or fin-nipping barbs should be avoided to prevent any harm or stress to the angelfish. Additionally, kribensis cichlids may nip at the fins of angelfish due to their territorial nature.
When introducing new tank mates, it is recommended to monitor their behavior closely for signs of aggression. By selecting compatible tank mates and creating a harmonious environment, you can ensure a peaceful coexistence for your angelfish and other fish species in the community tank.
Conclusion
Finding suitable tank mates for your angelfish is crucial to promoting a peaceful and harmonious aquarium environment. The ideal tank mates for angelfish include rummy nose tetras, boesemani rainbow fish, corydoras catfish, dwarf gourami, kuhli loach, rosy tetras, black skirt tetra, bleeding heart tetra, hatchetfish, discus fish, German blue ram, Bolivian ram, harlequin rasbora,and cherry barb.
It’s important to avoid keeping goldfish,betta fish,tiger barbs and green tiger barbslarge aggressive cichlids or bottom-dwelling fish like the red-tailed sharkor aggressive killifish with your angelfish.
Remember to introduce new fish gradually and ensure proper feeding and care for all your tank inhabitants. Happy angelfish keeping!
Get started on your journey to perfect fish pairings with Tank Mates.
FAQ
1. Can Angelfish Live Alone?
Angelfish can live alone, but they prefer to be paired with other angelfish for companionship. Young angelfish may feel lonely when kept alone and should be kept in a group. However, it is possible to keep just one angelfish, especially in a small tank or if the angelfish is territorial or aggressive.
The number of angelfish that should be kept together depends on the tank size and compatibility between them. Keeping angelfish alone is acceptable as long as they have a suitable environment and stimulation.
2. How Many Angelfish Can You Keep Together?
You can keep up to three angelfish together in a 65-gallon tank. Each angelfish needs at least 20 gallons of water, so it’s important not to overcrowd the tank. Keeping just a few angelfish allows each fish enough space to establish their territory and reduces aggression.
Remember, angelfish are social creatures, so they thrive better when kept with tank mates.
3. What to Do if Your Angelfish Is Aggressive?
If your angelfish is showing signs of aggression, there are a few steps you can take to address the issue. Firstly, ensure that the tank size and environment meet their needs in terms of space and enrichment.
Providing enough hiding spots and territories can help reduce aggression. Secondly, check if any tank mates may be causing stress or triggering territorial behavior. If necessary, consider removing the aggressive fish or rearranging decorations to create new territories.
Lastly, monitor water conditions and make sure they are optimal for angelfish health. Frequent water changes can help maintain good water quality which may contribute to reducing aggression levels in your angelfish.
4. Can Angelfish Be Kept With Other Types of Fish Besides Tetras and Catfish?
Angelfish can indeed be kept with other types of fish besides tetras and catfish. Some compatible tank mates for angelfish include rainbow fish, plecos, and certain types of cichlids like rams.
Lemon tetras, head and tail light tetras, rosy tetras, and rummy nose tetras are also good options to keep with angelfish. These fish have similar temperaments and can coexist peacefully in the same tank.
Just make sure to provide enough space for all the fish and monitor their behavior closely to ensure a harmonious community tank environment.
5. How Many Tank Mates Can I Add to My Angelfish Tank?
You can add several tank mates to your angelfish tank, but it’s important to consider the size and temperament of both the angelfish and the potential tank mates. A good rule of thumb is to provide at least 10 gallons of water for each adult angelfish, and then factor in the space needed for any additional fish.
It’s best to avoid overcrowding as it can lead to stress, aggression, and poor water quality. Researching the specific needs and behavior of each fish you want to add will help ensure a harmonious community tank.
6. What Are the Signs of Aggression or Fin Nipping in Angelfish?
Aggression in angelfish can be seen through certain signs and behaviors. These include chasing other fish, nipping or biting at their fins, and displaying territorial behavior. Angelfish may also become more aggressive during the breeding season when they are looking for a mate.
It is important to watch out for these signs of aggression in order to prevent harm to other fish in the tank. Providing hiding spots and territories can help minimize aggression in angelfish.
7. How Can I Prevent Aggression or Fin Nipping in Angelfish?
To prevent aggression and fin nipping in angelfish, there are a few things you can do. First, provide enough space in the tank for each fish to establish its own territory. This means having a large enough tank with plenty of hiding spots and plants.
Second, avoid keeping aggressive or fin-nipping fish species as tank mates for your angelfish. Certain species of barbs, like tiger barbs, are known for their fin-nipping behavior and should be avoided.
Lastly, ensure that your angelfish are well-fed with a balanced diet to minimize aggression caused by hunger or competition for food. By creating a peaceful environment and choosing compatible tank mates, you can help prevent aggression issues in your angelfish tank.
8. What Is the Ideal Tank Size for Angelfish?
Angelfish need a tank that is at least 55 gallons or larger when they are fully grown. It’s important to choose a tall aquarium to accommodate their body shape. Having the right tank size is crucial because angelfish can become territorial and aggressive in smaller tanks.
The ideal tank size will depend on the number and sizes of other fish in the aquarium, but smaller tanks may not provide enough space for angelfish to establish territories and can lead to aggression.
So, it’s best to give them plenty of room to swim and explore.
9. What Kind of Substrate Is Best for Angelfish?
Angelfish prefer a soft substrate that mimics their natural habitat. The best choice for angelfish is a fine-grained sand substrate. Avoid using sharp gravel or rough substrates, as they can damage the delicate fins of angelfish.
It’s recommended to use a dark-colored substrate, as it helps bring out the vibrant colors of the angelfish. You can also plant live plants directly into the substrate, which provides additional hiding spots and natural filtration for your angelfish tank.
10. What Type of Filtration Is Best for Angelfish?
Good filtration is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy environment for angelfish. The best type of filtration for angelfish is a combination of mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration.
A good quality canister filter or hang-on-back filter with multiple media compartments is recommended to ensure effective removal of debris, waste, and harmful substances from the water.
Regular maintenance such as cleaning or replacing filter media and monitoring water parameters is also important to keep the filtration system working optimally.
11. What Kind of Lighting Is Best for Angelfish?
Angelfish prefer subdued lighting in their tank. They come from shaded areas in the Amazon rainforest, so bright lighting can stress them out. It may even lead to aggression or problems with spawning.
To create a suitable environment for angelfish, you can use LED lights with adjustable intensity or aquarium lights with a moonlight setting. These options provide the low light conditions that angelfish and their tank mates prefer.
Just keep in mind that fish species that like brighter lighting might not be the best companions for angelfish.
12. How Often Should I Do Water Changes for Angelfish?
Regular water changes are crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for your angelfish. Waiting too long between water changes can lead to waste buildup and imbalances in the tank.
It is recommended to change 25% of the water every two weeks or 10% of the water every week, especially for smaller tanks ranging from 5-10 gallons. This frequency helps remove pollutants and keeps the water clean and clear, promoting the overall well-being of your angelfish.
Remember, regular water changes and proper tank maintenance are essential for keeping your angelfish happy and thriving.
13. What Are Some Common Diseases That Affect Angelfish?
Angelfish are susceptible to various diseases. One common disease is Ich, also known as white spot disease, which is caused by stress from poor tank conditions. Another dangerous viral infection that affects angelfish is hemorrhagic septicemia.
South American Black Spot Disease is another condition that often affects angelfish, causing cystic-like growth on their upper lip. It’s crucial to identify the specific disease before administering any treatments or medications to the fish.
14. How Can I Prevent Diseases in Angelfish?
To prevent diseases in angelfish, it is important to maintain consistent water parameters in their tank. This means keeping the temperature and pH levels stable, as well as regularly testing and monitoring the water quality.
Providing a clean and well-maintained tank environment is crucial for reducing stress in the angelfish, which can make them more susceptible to illness. It’s also important to avoid introducing any sick or diseased fish into the tank, as this can spread illnesses to your angelfish.
Regularly cleaning the tank and ensuring that there is proper filtration will help keep the water clean and free from harmful bacteria. Additionally, providing a balanced diet with high-quality fish food will boost your angelfish’s immune system and keep them healthy.