Angelfish: Everything You Need to Know
Introduction
Angelfish are one of the most iconic freshwater fish species in the aquarium hobby. Belonging to the Cichlidae family, they are known for their graceful swimming style and add a stunning touch to large community aquariums. Most angelfish available for purchase are bred in captivity, as wild-caught fish are quite rare. Originally #545557 in the wild, silver fish with vertical stripes now come in a variety of color patterns and fin types due to selective breeding. While Pterophyllum scalare is the most common species, P. altum is occasionally available, and P. leopoldii, the smallest and most invasive, is rarely seen.
Natural habitat of angelfish
Native to tropical South America, angelfish inhabit the Amazon River system and prefer cool, slow-moving waters. They thrive in shady environments under hanging plants or submerged fallen trees.
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Water Requirements
Angelfish are adaptable to a variety of water conditions, but they prefer slightly warmer temperatures. The ideal pH level is between 6.8 to 7.8, and water hardness should be between 3° and 8° dKH (54 to 145 ppm). A temperature between 78°F and 84°F is optimal for these fish. Maintain good water quality with regular filtration and weekly or bi-weekly water changes using a siphon vacuum gravel cleaner. Treat tap water with a water conditioner before refilling the tank.
Housing Recommendations
Angelfish grow quite large and require at least a 55-gallon aquarium when fully grown. Their long, slender bodies thrive in vertically oriented tanks. The water flow should be gentle, and the tank should include broad-leafed plants and vertically arranged driftwood to simulate their natural habitat. Consider planting floating plants for shade and cover. A smooth, fine to medium gravel substrate is ideal for angelfish, as they often forage on the bottom for food.
Behavior and compatibility
Although generally peaceful, angelfish can be aggressive, especially during spawning. They may eat small fish, but this is more opportunistic behavior than outright aggression. In larger aquariums, angelfish can live with discus if the water temperature is maintained above 82°F.
Diet
Angelfish feed in the surface or mid-water and often forage for insects and small crustaceans on the bottom. They are omnivorous and thrive on a variety of diets, including tropical flakes, colorful flakes, grains, and shrimp pellets. Treats such as frozen or live foods can encourage egg laying.
Reproduction of angelfish
Breeding angelfish requires some experience. Adult angelfish pair up and prepare a flat vertical surface to lay their eggs to ward off other fish. The female lays eggs in a row, which the male fertilizes. Many captive angelfish lack parenting instincts and may eat their eggs or fry. Breeders often induce pairs to lay eggs on pieces of vertical slate and then transport the eggs to a hatchery aquarium to hatch.
In short, angelfish are a wonderful addition to any aquarium, but they require careful attention to their habitat, water conditions, and diet for optimal health and reproductive success.
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