Angelfish Quick Care Facts:

Environment: Tropical 77-82F (25-30C)
pH: 6 – 7
KH: 3 – 5
dH: 5 – 13
Diet: Omnivorous
Breeding: Egg Layers

Angelfish are a freshwater fish of the family Cichlidae, originally from river basins in South America. The cichlid is a favorite, mainly because of their unique shape, color and behavior. The freshwater angelfish is good fish for beginners.

General Angelfish Information

These fish are beautiful to look at, with sparkling scales and tall pointed fins. They grow to about six inches long and up to eight inches tall, with a fairly thin body. A great range of colors and patterns are available, from colored stripes to solid silver to a black and silver marble.

Angelfish are generally peaceful, but are considered semi-aggressive as they will eat smaller fish. The cichlid is territorial, so it is best to only have one per small tank, or more than three in a larger tank to help prevent a stronger fish picking on weaker ones.

Basic Requirements for Freshwater Angelfish

Angelfish prefer a warm environment, around 80 °F. They do best in slightly acidic water, with a pH below 7.5. Because of the height of their fins, a tall aquarium with at least 30 gallons of water is ideal for three fish. Decorations and plants should be high enough to provide hiding spots.

Tank cleaning and regular weekly water changes are necessary to keep the quality of water high. The water filter should be changed weekly, and it is a good idea to test the water weekly to prevent any problems.

Angelfish do not eat Angel-food cake. 🙁

These fish thrive on a mixed diet of frozen, flake and live food. Do not overfeed, as the fish will continue eating as long as food is available. The result can be fat build up, reduced activity and earlier death.

Breeding your freshwater angelfish

Angelfish are very difficult to sex. The best approach is to wait for juveniles to pair off. Place a breeding pair into a separate tank. When ready to spawn, the female will deposit eggs in organized rows, with the male following and fertilizing each egg. After spawning, remove the fish to protect the eggs and newly hatched fry.

Even Angel[Fish] get sick

Angelfish are susceptible to a disease referred to as Hole in the Head. These are small sores above the eyes that can grow and eventually penetrate the skin. The condition appears to be linked to the quality of the water so it is important to take preventative measures to keep the water clean and fresh.