Angelfish Care Guide

Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are one of the most elegant fish in the hobby. Their distinctive triangular shape, flowing fins, and intelligent behaviour make them a centrepiece fish for any community or species tank.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum tank size: 30 gallons for a pair; taller tanks preferred (45cm+ depth)
• Temperature: 24–28°C (76–82°F)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Soft to moderately hard water
• Gentle to moderate flow — avoid strong currents

Aquascape

Angelfish are native to slow-moving Amazon tributaries. They appreciate:

• Tall plants like Amazon swords, vallisneria, or java fern
• Driftwood for cover and natural tannins
• Dimmer, more subdued lighting
• Open swimming space in the centre of the tank

Diet

Angelfish are omnivores with a carnivorous lean. Feed:

• Quality cichlid pellets or flakes
• Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, or beef heart
• Occasional live foods for enrichment

Tank Mates

Angelfish can be kept with many community fish but will eat anything small enough to fit in their mouths. Avoid:

• Very small tetras (neon tetras are classic prey)
• Fin nippers (tiger barbs, serpae tetras)
• Other aggressive cichlids

Good tank mates include larger tetras (black skirt, Buenos Aires), corydoras, plecos, and gouramis.

Breeding

Angelfish are substrate spawners. A bonded pair will clean a flat surface (broad leaf or slate), lay eggs, and guard them aggressively. Fry hatch in 60 hours and become free-swimming within a week.

Shop at Concrete Blonde Aquatics

Browse our Freshwater Fish collection for available Angelfish and grab supplies from our Aquarium Supplies store.