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Freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are graceful, intelligent cichlids that become real centrepieces. They're not difficult to keep, but they need a tall tank, stable water and careful choice of tankmates.
Angelfish at a glance
| Size | 15cm long and up to 20cm tall |
| Minimum tank | 150 litres, at least 45–50cm tall |
| Temperature | 24–28°C |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Lifespan | 10+ years |
| Temperament | Semi-aggressive, especially when breeding |
Varieties
Captive-bred angelfish come in many colours: silver, black, platinum, marbled gold, blue and blue diamond. Captive-bred fish are hardy and adaptable. The altum angelfish is a taller, more demanding species for experienced keepers with soft, warm water. See all live fish.
Setting up the tank
- Height matters because of their tall fins. Choose a tank at least 45cm tall.
- Tall plants and driftwood such as Amazon swords (Echinodorus bleheri) and vallisneria give cover and breeding sites.
- Gentle to moderate flow. An external filter with a spray bar spreads flow nicely.
- Steady, warm water with a reliable heater.
Feeding
Angelfish are omnivores that favour meaty food. Feed a quality flake or small pellet daily, plus frozen foods such as bloodworm, mysis and brine shrimp. Feed small amounts once or twice a day.
Tankmates
Good choices: corydoras, bristlenose plecos, larger tetras such as rummy-nose or black widow, peaceful gouramis and rasboras.
Avoid: fin-nippers such as tiger barbs and serpae tetras, and very small fish. Adult angelfish will eat neon tetras and small fry, especially if the neons are added after the angels are grown. Read 30 Fish You Should Never Keep Together.
Groups, pairs and breeding
Young angelfish do well in a group of five or six. As they mature, pairs form and claim territory. In smaller tanks you may need to rehome extras once a pair forms. Pairs lay eggs on broad leaves, slate or the glass and guard them closely.
Common problems
- Bullying as pairs form: provide space and broken sight lines.
- Fin damage and fin rot: see our fin rot guide.
- White spot: see our white spot guide.
