Angelfish: everything you need to know about keeping and food
The angelfish is a cichlid originally from South America, which is highly popular in the aquarium hobby due to its attractive appearance.
In the following, we will explain what you need to consider when caring for angelfish and what food is suitable for these aquarium inhabitants.
Angelfish Profile
- Scientific Name: Pterophyllum scalare
- Origin: South America (including Brazil, Peru, and Guyana)
- Size: 15 cm (6 inches)
- Lifespan: Approximately 12 years
- Minimum Aquarium Size: 200 liters (53 gallons)
- Recommended Water Temperature: 24 - 30 °C (75 - 86 °F)
- Diet: Omnivorous (primarily carnivorous)
Appearance of Angelfish
The angelfish has a compressed body shape, with a noticeable curve in the belly and dorsal line. The rays of its anal and dorsal fins start short at the base and progressively become longer towards the back, contributing to the angelfish's characteristic triangular appearance.
Most angelfish have four vertical dark bands running across their bodies. The front band is located near the eyes, while the rear band runs at the base of the angelfish's tail fin. However, some specimens may lack these stripes.
Angelfish can reach a length of about 15 centimeters (6 inches) and a height of approximately 25 centimeters (10 inches).
Bred angelfish, which come in numerous varieties, are available in a wide range of colors. In addition to violet, blue, and golden specimens, there are angelfish with nearly black scales or a marbled pattern.
Other Species in the Angelfish Genus
Besides the common angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare), there are two other species belonging to the angelfish genus. The Leopold's angelfish (Pterophyllum leopoldi) is the smallest, while the Altum angelfish (Pterophyllum altum) is the largest member of the angelfish group.
Lifespan of Angelfish
Under good conditions, angelfish can live for approximately 12 years. There have been reports of specimens reaching an age of 16 years.
Origin of Angelfish
Angelfish originate from the tropical rivers of the South American rainforest. Their natural habitat includes rivers in Brazil, Peru, and Guyana. In these habitats, angelfish prefer calm, slow-moving sections of water, as well as areas near the shore or adjacent floodplains.
Angelfish Care
Angelfish have become highly popular aquarium inhabitants. As long as the needs of these impressive fish are met, their care is generally successful.
Considering their height, it is self-evident that mature angelfish require a sufficiently large water tank. The water depth should be at least twice the height of the fish.
For a single angelfish, the aquarium should have a minimum volume of 200 liters (53 gallons) or more. If more than two angelfish are kept together, a water volume of at least 300 to 350 liters (79 to 92 gallons) is necessary. In the long run, a tank with a capacity of 500 liters (132 gallons) is often advisable to avoid territorial disputes and provide suitable living conditions.
The water temperature in the aquarium should be within the typical range of the angelfish's natural habitat, approximately 24 to 30 °C (75 - 86 °F). It is important to avoid excessively high or low temperatures for the well-being of the fish. The pH level of the water should ideally be between 5.5 and 7.
Aquarium Setup for Angelfish
In addition to providing sufficient swimming space, angelfish need hiding places among plants. Therefore, when setting up the aquarium, it is important to strike the right balance and provide suitable aquatic plants as their habitat.
Fine sand or small granules make suitable substrates for angelfish tanks. Additionally, placing wood objects or larger stones in the aquarium can serve as hiding spots.
Tankmates for Angelfish
During the breeding season and after egg-laying, angelfish can become aggressive and defend their territory against both conspecifics and other tankmates. Outside the breeding season, however, they are generally peaceful.
Small fish, such as neon tetras, are seen as easy prey by angelfish and have a low chance of survival. On the other hand, angelfish usually coexist well with slightly larger fish species like butterfly cichlids, catfish, or larger tetras.
Due to the large fins of angelfish, it is advisable to avoid fish species that tend to nip at the fins of their tankmates. Otherwise, injuries are likely to occur.
Breeding Angelfish
In a group of angelfish, a compatible pair usually forms naturally over time. Angelfish lay their eggs on leaves and engage in intensive parental care, often displaying aggressive behavior towards other fish in the aquarium.
It takes two days for the eggs to hatch into small fry. Since angelfish may occasionally eat their own eggs, close monitoring is necessary, and if problems arise, the eggs should be removed from the main tank for separate rearing of the fry.
Angelfish Diseases
In general, angelfish are robust fish with no excessive susceptibility to diseases. However, maintaining good water quality is crucial for their well-being, as changes in water parameters can quickly lead to health problems.
Nevertheless, angelfish can still be affected by common fish diseases.
Some diseases that can occur in angelfish include:
- Ich (White Spot Disease)
- Fish tuberculosis
- Dropsy
- Fin rot
Additionally, infestations with parasites such as nematodes may occur, but this is rare in clean, well-maintained aquariums.
Angelfish Feeding
Wild angelfish primarily feed on animal matter, including small fish, larvae, mollusks such as snails, and insects.
In the aquarium, angelfish are usually versatile eaters and accept a variety of foods, from live to dry. They may also consume small amounts of aquatic plants, such as algae and duckweed.
Aquaris Fish Food for Angelfish
For a long and healthy life, it is essential to opt for good quality when feeding angelfish. In the Aquaris range, you can find high-quality flakes and cichlid ornamental fish food that provides your angelfish with all the essential nutrients they need.
Additionally, Aquaris ornamental fish food is known for its excellent digestibility. This contributes to maintaining the water quality in your angelfish aquarium without unnecessary impact.
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