Can Angelfish Go With Cichlids – Your Definitive Guide To Peaceful
Ever stood in front of an aquarium, mesmerized by the graceful glide of a freshwater Angelfish and the vibrant, bustling energy of a Cichlid, and wondered… can they live together? It’s one of the most common questions we get here at Aquifarm, and it’s surrounded by a ton of conflicting advice.
You’ve probably heard horror stories of shredded fins and tank-wide turmoil. But you’ve also likely seen stunning community tanks where these fish appear to coexist peacefully. So, what’s the real story?
I’m here to promise you that the answer is a resounding sometimes, but only with the right knowledge. The secret isn’t just luck; it’s about understanding the vast and varied cichlid family. This is your complete can angelfish go with cichlids guide, designed to give you the confidence to create a harmonious and beautiful aquarium.
In this post, we’ll unravel the cichlid mystery, show you exactly which species are friends or foes to your angelfish, and walk you through setting up a tank that promotes peace, not war. Let’s dive in!
Understanding the Cichlid Family: Why This Question is Tricky
Here’s the first big secret that trips up many aquarists: Angelfish are cichlids! That’s right. Your elegant, long-finned Pterophyllum scalare belongs to the exact same family, Cichlidae, as that boisterous Jack Dempsey or colorful African Mbuna.
The Cichlidae family is massive, with over 1,600 described species originating from different continents. They range from tiny, peaceful dwarf species to large, aggressive predators. Asking “can angelfish go with cichlids” is a bit like asking “can a poodle live with a wolf?” They’re related, but their temperaments and needs are worlds apart.
This is why a simple yes or no answer is impossible. The key to success lies in understanding where your cichlids come from, because geography is the single biggest predictor of compatibility.
The Big Showdown: New World vs. Old World Cichlids
To really understand cichlid compatibility, we need to split them into two main groups based on their origin: New World (The Americas) and Old World (Africa and Asia). This is the most critical distinction you can make.
New World Cichlids (The Americas)
Angelfish are New World cichlids from the Amazon River basin in South America. This region is known for its soft, acidic water and lush vegetation. Cichlids from this area, especially South American ones, tend to be less aggressive than their African cousins.
They often form pair bonds and care for their young, but their territorial instincts are usually manageable in a well-structured aquarium. This is the group you’ll be choosing from when looking for angelfish tank mates.
Old World Cichlids (Africa & Asia)
When most people think of “cichlids,” they’re picturing the dazzlingly colorful and intensely active fish from the African Rift Lakes (like Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika). These are Old World cichlids.
These fish have evolved in a completely different environment: hard, alkaline water with a high pH, and rocky landscapes with few plants. They are famously aggressive, hyper-territorial, and have entirely different dietary and water parameter needs. Mixing them with a soft-water-loving, relatively placid Angelfish is a recipe for disaster.
So, How To Can Angelfish Go With Cichlids? The Successful Pairing Guide
Now we get to the heart of the matter. You absolutely can keep Angelfish with other cichlids, provided you follow one golden rule: pair them with other peaceful to semi-aggressive South American cichlids of a similar size and temperament.
Think of it as building a “neighborhood” tank. You want fish that come from the same general area, appreciate the same living conditions (water, food, decor), and speak the same “language” when it comes to social cues and aggression.
The benefits of can angelfish go with cichlids, when done correctly, are incredible. You get a dynamic, interesting tank that showcases the intelligent behaviors of these fish without the constant stress of warfare. This approach also makes for a more sustainable can angelfish go with cichlids setup, as fish in a low-stress environment are healthier and live longer.
Best Cichlid Tank Mates for Angelfish (And Which to Avoid!)
Let’s get specific. Here is your cheat sheet for stocking a peaceful angelfish and cichlid community tank. Following these recommendations is one of the most important can angelfish go with cichlids tips we can offer.
The “Green Light” Cichlids: Excellent Companions
These cichlids generally share the same water parameter needs and have a temperament that meshes well with angelfish, especially in a properly sized tank.
- German Blue Rams (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi): A classic and beautiful choice. These dwarf cichlids are peaceful, stay small, and occupy the lower levels of the tank, leaving the mid-water for your angelfish.
- Bolivian Rams (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus): Slightly larger and hardier than their German blue cousins, Bolivian Rams are another fantastic bottom-dwelling companion. They are active but rarely cause trouble.
- Keyhole Cichlids (Cleithracara maronii): Named for their timid nature, Keyhole Cichlids are one of the most peaceful cichlids available. They are shy and will appreciate a well-planted tank with lots of hiding spots.
- Apistogramma Species: This genus of dwarf cichlids offers dozens of colorful and fascinating options. Most “Apistos” are peaceful and make wonderful tank mates for angelfish. Just be sure to provide caves for them to claim.
- Discus (Symphysodon): The “King of the Aquarium” can be housed with angelfish, as they share the same water requirements. However, Discus are extremely sensitive and demanding, making this pairing best for experienced aquarists only.
The “Red Light” Cichlids: Avoid at All Costs
Mixing your angelfish with any of these cichlids will almost certainly lead to injury or death for the angelfish. It’s simply not worth the risk.
- ALL African Rift Lake Cichlids: This includes Mbuna, Peacocks, and Haps. Their extreme aggression and opposite water chemistry needs make them fundamentally incompatible.
- Large, Aggressive Central American Cichlids: This group includes Oscars, Jack Dempseys, Midas Cichlids, and Green Terrors. They will bully, shred, and likely kill your angelfish.
- Convict Cichlids (Amatitlania nigrofasciata): Don’t let their small size fool you. Convicts are notoriously aggressive, especially when breeding (which they do constantly). They will terrorize an entire tank, and your angelfish’s long fins are an irresistible target.
Setting Up for Success: The Ideal Tank Environment
Your success doesn’t just depend on choosing the right fish; it depends on creating the right environment. Following these can angelfish go with cichlids best practices will dramatically increase your chances of a peaceful tank.
Tank Size Matters (A Lot!)
This is non-negotiable. For a community of angelfish and other compatible dwarf cichlids, you need a minimum of a 55-gallon tank. We strongly recommend a 75-gallon tank or larger if possible.
Why so big? A larger tank provides more swimming space, dilutes aggression, and allows each fish to establish its own territory without constant conflict. A cramped tank is a stressed tank.
Aquascaping for Peace
Your tank’s layout is your best tool for managing behavior. Don’t leave it as an open swimming pool! Create a complex and interesting environment.
Use tall plants (like Amazon Swords and Vallisneria) and pieces of driftwood to create “visual barriers.” These barriers break up sightlines, allowing fish to retreat and feel secure. Add small caves and coconut huts on the substrate for your Rams or Apistos to claim as their own.
Water Parameters
Aim for the middle ground that keeps both your angelfish and their South American tank mates happy. This is a core part of any good can angelfish go with cichlids care guide.
- Temperature: 78-82°F (25-28°C)
- pH: 6.5 – 7.2 (Slightly acidic to neutral is perfect)
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is best.
Maintaining stable, clean water through regular water changes is paramount for the health of these sometimes-sensitive fish.
Introducing Fish Correctly
How you add fish is just as important as which fish you add. The best method is to add all your juvenile cichlids (including the angelfish) to the tank at the same time. This prevents any single fish from claiming the entire tank as its territory before others arrive.
If you must add new fish to an established tank, completely rearrange the decorations. Move the rocks, shift the driftwood, and replant the plants. This resets all existing territories and gives the newcomer a fighting chance to find its own space.
Common Problems with Can Angelfish Go With Cichlids (And How to Solve Them)
Even with perfect planning, you might encounter some bumps along the road. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them.
Problem: Fin Nipping
The Issue: You notice your angelfish’s beautiful, flowing fins are looking a bit ragged. Even peaceful cichlids like Rams can sometimes get nippy.
The Solution: This is often a sign of stress, boredom, or crowding. First, check your tank size. Is it large enough? Second, add more visual barriers and hiding spots. A fish that feels secure is less likely to be aggressive. Finally, ensure everyone is well-fed, as hunger can lead to nipping.
Problem: Aggression During Breeding
The Issue: A pair of your angelfish or dwarf cichlids has laid eggs and is now viciously defending their corner of the tank, chasing everyone else away.
The Solution: This is natural and expected cichlid behavior! In a large (75+ gallon) tank, the other fish usually have enough room to stay out of the way. If the aggression is severe or the tank is smaller, your best bet is to have a separate breeder tank ready to move the pair into.
Problem: Competition for Food
The Issue: Angelfish can be slow, methodical eaters. Faster cichlids or other tank mates might be gobbling up all the food before the angels get their share.
The Solution: Observe feeding time carefully. Try spreading food across the surface of the water so it’s not all in one clump. Use a mix of high-quality flakes for the angelfish and sinking pellets or wafers that will reach your bottom-dwelling cichlids like Rams.
Frequently Asked Questions About Angelfish and Cichlid Compatibility
Can angelfish live with African cichlids?
No, this is a highly incompatible pairing that should always be avoided. Their water parameter needs (hard, alkaline water for Africans vs. soft, acidic for angels) are completely opposite, and the extreme aggression of African cichlids will result in your angelfish being bullied, injured, or killed.
Can angelfish live with Convict cichlids?
We strongly advise against this. Convict cichlids are small but incredibly aggressive and territorial, especially for their size. They are known fin-nippers and will relentlessly harass the much more placid angelfish.
What is the best size tank for keeping angelfish with other cichlids?
The absolute minimum is a 55-gallon tank, but a 75-gallon tank or larger is highly recommended. The extra space is crucial for providing territories and reducing stress, which is the key to preventing aggression.
Can a single angelfish live with a pair of German Blue Rams?
Yes, this is an excellent and highly recommended combination for a tank of appropriate size (40-55 gallons would be great for this specific trio). The Rams will occupy the bottom of the tank while the angelfish cruises the mid-water, creating a balanced and peaceful community.
Your Journey to a Harmonious Tank Starts Now
So, can angelfish go with cichlids? As you now see, the answer is a confident “yes,” but with an important asterisk: only with the right cichlids.
By focusing on peaceful South American species like Rams and Apistogrammas, providing a large and well-decorated tank, and understanding their behavior, you can absolutely create the stunning cichlid community of your dreams. You’re no longer just guessing; you have a proven roadmap for success.
Don’t be afraid to create a slice of the Amazon right in your living room. With a little planning and the right knowledge, you can enjoy the intelligence and beauty of these incredible fish for years to come. Happy fishkeeping!
- Apistogramma Upside Down – A Step-By-Step Emergency Care Guide - September 21, 2025
- Will Apistogramma Eat Guppy Fry? Your Complete Guide To A Balanced - September 21, 2025
- What To Feed Apistogramma Fry – From Wrigglers To Juveniles: A - September 21, 2025