Angelfish And Goldfish – The Honest Truth About This Popular Pairing
It’s a question we hear all the time at Aquifarm, and it’s an appealing one: can you keep the elegant, disc-shaped angelfish and the charming, classic goldfish in the same aquarium? On the surface, it seems like a match made in heaven. They are two of the most iconic fish in the hobby, and the thought of them swimming together is certainly picturesque.
But before you start planning your tank, I want to share some crucial advice from one fish keeper to another. This advice could save you a lot of heartache, money, and most importantly, save your fish from a world of stress. The truth about keeping angelfish and goldfish together is far more complex than you might think.
Imagine a thriving, peaceful aquarium where every inhabitant is healthy and active. That’s the goal, right? In this complete guide, we’ll give you the honest, expert-backed truth about this popular but problematic pairing. We’ll dive deep into their conflicting needs, explore the common problems with angelfish and goldfish cohabitation, and show you how to create a stunning, harmonious tank for each of these amazing species—separately.
The Core Conflict: Why Angelfish and Goldfish Are Not Ideal Tank Mates
Let’s get straight to the point. The primary reason this pairing is discouraged by experienced aquarists comes down to fundamental biological differences. It’s not about one fish being “bad” or the other being “good”; they are simply from two different worlds. Trying to force them into one is often a recipe for failure.
Temperature Clash: Tropical vs. Coldwater
This is the biggest and most non-negotiable issue. Angelfish are tropical cichlids from the Amazon River basin. They require warm water to thrive, ideally between 76°F and 82°F (24°C – 28°C).
Goldfish, on the other hand, are a type of carp and are distinctly coldwater (or more accurately, temperate) fish. They prefer cooler temperatures, typically in the range of 65°F to 72°F (18°C – 22°C).
There is virtually no overlap in their ideal temperature ranges. Keeping them at a middle-ground temperature (around 74°F) puts constant stress on both species. For the angelfish, the water is too cold, weakening their immune system and making them susceptible to diseases like Ich. For the goldfish, the water is too warm, which speeds up their metabolism, shortens their lifespan, and reduces the oxygen levels in the water.
Dietary Differences: A Recipe for Trouble
Another major point of conflict is their diet. A complete angelfish and goldfish care guide must emphasize their unique nutritional needs.
- Angelfish are primarily omnivores with a strong carnivorous leaning. They need a high-protein diet rich in foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, and high-quality flake or pellet food designed for cichlids.
- Goldfish are also omnivores, but they lean more towards being herbivores. They require a diet lower in protein and higher in fiber and plant matter. A high-protein diet can lead to digestive issues and swim bladder disease in goldfish.
Feeding them in the same tank is a logistical nightmare. The angelfish will likely eat the goldfish food (which is bad for them), and the slower goldfish may not get enough of their own food before the quicker angelfish gobble it all up.
Temperament and Size Mismatch
While they may look serene, angelfish are cichlids. Cichlids are known for being territorial and can become quite aggressive, especially as they mature and pair off to breed. Their long, flowing fins, which are so beautiful to us, are prime targets for nipping by other fish—and while goldfish aren’t typically aggressive, they can be notorious fin nippers, especially the faster, single-tailed varieties.
Conversely, a large, mature angelfish can easily bully or even try to eat a smaller fancy goldfish. Fancy goldfish, with their round bodies and flowing fins, are slow, clumsy swimmers, making them easy targets for the more agile and potentially aggressive angelfish.
A Comprehensive Angelfish and Goldfish Care Guide (For Separate Tanks)
So, we’ve established they shouldn’t live together. Don’t worry—this is actually great news! It means you have an opportunity to create two incredible, species-appropriate tanks. Here are some angelfish and goldfish tips for giving them the best possible homes.
Creating the Perfect Angelfish Oasis
Angelfish deserve a tank that mimics their Amazonian home. Think tall, not wide, to accommodate their body shape.
- Tank Size: A minimum of a 30-gallon tall tank is recommended for a pair of angelfish. If you plan to keep a small group, you’ll need 55 gallons or more.
- Water Parameters: Keep the temperature stable at 76-82°F. Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.5).
- Decor: Use tall plants (like Amazon Swords and Vallisneria) and driftwood to provide vertical swimming space and hiding spots. This makes them feel secure.
- Ideal Tank Mates: Peaceful, medium-sized fish are best. Think Corydoras catfish, larger Tetras (like Black Skirts or Bleeding Hearts), and peaceful Plecos. Avoid small fish like Neon Tetras, which adult angelfish may see as a snack.
Building a Golden Paradise for Your Goldfish
Goldfish get a bad rap from being kept in small bowls, but they are large, active fish that need a ton of space and filtration.
- Tank Size: This is the most common mistake. For fancy goldfish (the double-tailed varieties), start with a 20-gallon tank for the first fish and add 10-15 gallons for each additional fish. For common or comet goldfish (the single-tailed varieties), you should really be thinking about a pond or a tank of at least 75 gallons, as they can grow over a foot long.
- Filtration: Goldfish are messy! You need a filter rated for a tank at least twice the size of your actual aquarium. This is non-negotiable for their health.
- Decor: Use smooth gravel or sand and sturdy, well-anchored decorations. Avoid sharp objects that could tear their delicate fins.
- Ideal Tank Mates: The best tank mates for goldfish are other goldfish of a similar size and type. Mixing slow fancy goldfish with fast comets can lead to the fancies being outcompeted for food.
Common Problems with Angelfish and Goldfish (And How to Fix Them)
Perhaps you’re reading this because you already have angelfish and goldfish together and are noticing issues. Here are some common problems and the only real solution.
Problem: Fin Nipping and Aggression
You may notice the angelfish’s long ventral fins are shredded, or the goldfish’s tail is tattered. This is a clear sign of stress and aggression. The fish are physically harming each other because their environment is unsuitable.
The Fix: The only responsible solution is immediate separation. Set up a second, species-appropriate aquarium as soon as possible. A large plastic storage tub with a filter and heater/chiller can work as a temporary emergency hospital tank.
Problem: Sickness and Lethargy
Is your angelfish hiding and refusing to eat? Is your goldfish gasping at the surface or covered in white spots (Ich)? This is often a direct result of temperature-induced stress weakening their immune systems.
The Fix: Separate the fish into their own tanks with the correct temperature for each. Treat any existing diseases according to veterinary or expert advice. Providing the right environment is the best preventative medicine.
Sustainable Angelfish and Goldfish Keeping: Best Practices
Part of being a great aquarist is making responsible choices. Embracing sustainable angelfish and goldfish practices ensures the health of your fish and the hobby for years to come. This is one of the key benefits of angelfish and goldfish keeping—when done right.
Choose Ethically Sourced Fish
Support local fish stores that work with reputable, ethical breeders. This reduces the demand for wild-caught fish that may be captured using unsustainable methods. Well-bred fish are also generally healthier and better adapted to aquarium life.
Invest in the Right Size Tank from the Start
The most eco-friendly angelfish and goldfish practice is providing a proper home for their entire lifespan. Buying a small “starter” tank only to upgrade later is wasteful and stressful for the fish. Research their full adult size and commit to the right tank from day one. This is the essence of responsible fishkeeping.
Practice Eco-Friendly Maintenance
You can reduce your environmental impact with a few simple tweaks. Use a gravel vacuum that starts with a siphon so you don’t have to run the tap. The old aquarium water is full of nutrients and is fantastic for watering houseplants! Be mindful of using dechlorinators and other chemicals, following the instructions precisely to avoid waste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Angelfish and Goldfish
What temperature is best for angelfish and goldfish?
This question highlights the core problem. There is no single temperature that is healthy for both. Angelfish need tropical heat (76-82°F), while goldfish need cool, temperate water (65-72°F). A compromise temperature puts both fish under chronic stress.
Can a baby angelfish live with a goldfish?
While a tiny, juvenile angelfish might not immediately fight with a goldfish, this is a ticking time bomb. As the angelfish grows, its dietary needs and territorial instincts will emerge, and the temperature incompatibility will always be a major health risk. It’s best to avoid it from the start.
What are better tank mates for angelfish?
Great tank mates for angelfish include Corydoras catfish for the bottom, peaceful plecos, and robust mid-water swimmers like Black Skirt Tetras, Serpae Tetras, or Bolivian Rams. Always have a large enough tank to accommodate everyone comfortably.
What are better tank mates for goldfish?
Honestly, the best tank mates for goldfish are other goldfish. If you have fancy goldfish, stick with other fancies like Orandas, Ryukins, or Fantails. If you have comets in a very large tank or pond, other comets or Shubunkins are suitable companions.
Your Path to a Thriving Aquarium
The journey of learning how to angelfish and goldfish can seem confusing, but the answer is clear: they are two fantastic fish that deserve their own dedicated, specialized homes. Resisting the urge to combine them isn’t a limitation—it’s a sign of a thoughtful and knowledgeable aquarist.
By understanding and respecting the unique needs of these incredible animals, you move beyond simply keeping fish and become a true hobbyist who creates beautiful, thriving aquatic ecosystems.
So go ahead, set up that warm, planted angelfish paradise. Build that spacious, well-filtered goldfish palace. The reward will be years of enjoyment watching healthy, happy fish that you can be proud of. Happy fishkeeping!
- Assassin Snail Bioload – How To Manage Waste & Prevent Overpopulation - September 23, 2025
- Assassin Snail For Algae – The Surprising Truth & Better Solutions - September 23, 2025
- Assassin Snail Eat Nerite – A Complete Coexistence Guide - September 23, 2025