Different Species Of Angelfish – A Visual Guide To Choosing Your
There’s a reason they call angelfish the “King of the Aquarium.” Watching one of these elegant, diamond-shaped fish glide effortlessly through a planted tank is simply mesmerizing. It’s a sight that makes all the work of fishkeeping worthwhile.
But when you walk into your local fish store, the sheer variety can be overwhelming. Koi, Marble, Veil, Altum… what’s the difference? You want to choose the right one, but you’re not sure where to start. I’ve been there, and I get it.
That’s why I’ve created this complete different species of angelfish guide. I promise to walk you through everything you need to know, from the most popular varieties and their unique personalities to setting up the perfect home for them to thrive. We’ll cover their ideal tank mates, solve common problems, and give you the confidence to choose the perfect angelfish for your aquarium.
Let’s dive in and find your new favorite fish!
The “King of the Aquarium”: Why Angelfish Reign Supreme
Before we explore the different types, let’s talk about the benefits of different species of angelfish. Why are they a cornerstone of the freshwater hobby? It’s simple: they offer the perfect blend of beauty, personality, and accessibility.
Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are members of the Cichlid family, a group known for its intelligence and complex behaviors. But don’t let that intimidate you! Unlike many of their more aggressive cousins, angelfish are generally peaceful, making them a fantastic centerpiece fish for a community tank (with the right tank mates, of course!).
They are inquisitive, will learn to recognize you (especially at feeding time!), and can even form devoted pairs that will diligently guard their eggs and fry. This level of interaction is what gets so many aquarists hooked for life. For anyone looking to move beyond a simple school of tetras, angelfish are the perfect next step.
A Complete Guide to the Most Popular Different Species of Angelfish
Here’s where the fun begins! While most angelfish you’ll find are variations of the same species, Pterophyllum scalare, decades of selective breeding have produced a stunning array of colors and fin types. This section will help you understand how to different species of angelfish can be identified and cared for.
Silver Angelfish (The Classic)
This is the OG, the fish that most closely resembles its wild ancestors from the Amazon River. The Silver Angelfish has a beautiful silver body marked with three or four distinct, vertical black stripes. These stripes can actually fade or darken depending on the fish’s mood, which is fascinating to watch!
They are known for being incredibly hardy and are probably the easiest variety for beginners to start with. If you want a timeless, classic look for your tank, you can’t go wrong with a Silver Angelfish.
Koi Angelfish
Named for their resemblance to the famous Japanese Koi carp, these angelfish are true showstoppers. They feature a striking patchwork of white, black, and brilliant orange or red-orange, especially on their heads. No two Koi Angelfish are exactly alike!
Their coloration can become more vibrant as they mature and with a high-quality, color-enhancing diet. They bring an incredible splash of color to any aquarium and are always a conversation starter.
Marble Angelfish
Imagine a living piece of art, and you’ve got the Marble Angelfish. These fish have a gorgeous, chaotic pattern of black on a silver or gold base, resembling fine marble stone. The pattern is highly variable, ranging from fine speckles to large, bold patches.
There are several variations, including the Golden Marble, which has a more yellowish base color, and the Silver Marble. They are just as hardy as their Silver cousins, making them another fantastic choice for those new to keeping angelfish.
Black Lace and Veil Angelfish
For those who love pure elegance, the Black Lace Angelfish is a dream. These fish are almost entirely a deep, velvety black. The “Lace” variety has a delicate, see-through pattern in its fins, while a solid black is often called a Black Angelfish. They are breathtaking against a backdrop of bright green plants.
A “Veil” or “Veiltail” angelfish refers to the fin type, not the color. These fish have been bred to have extra-long, flowing fins that trail behind them like a wedding veil. You can find Veil versions of almost any color, but the Black Veil Angelfish is particularly stunning. Pro Tip: Their long fins make them vulnerable to fin-nipping fish, so choose their tank mates carefully!
Platinum Angelfish
Simple, clean, and absolutely radiant. The Platinum Angelfish is a solid, brilliant white or shimmering silver with no markings at all. Under good lighting, they seem to glow. A school of these in a well-planted tank creates a high-contrast, modern look that is truly spectacular.
Altum Angelfish (For the Advanced Aquarist)
Now, let’s talk about the true giant: Pterophyllum altum. These are a different, wild species of angelfish, not just a color morph. They are found in different river systems and are much more demanding. Altums grow significantly larger, have a more pronounced “notch” on their face, and require very soft, acidic water with pristine conditions.
They are more expensive, much more sensitive, and are not recommended for beginners. However, for the experienced aquarist looking for a challenge, successfully keeping a group of Altums is a true badge of honor.
Setting Up the Perfect Angelfish Habitat: Best Practices
Creating the right environment is the most important part of this different species of angelfish care guide. Get this right, and you’re 90% of the way to having happy, healthy fish.
Tank Size Matters (More Than You Think!)
Because of their body shape, angelfish need a tall tank. This is non-negotiable. They grow vertically, and a standard short tank will stunt their growth and cause stress.
- Minimum for a Pair: A 29-gallon tank is the absolute minimum for a bonded pair.
- Ideal for a Group: A 55-gallon tank or larger is much better, especially if you want to keep a group of 4-6. This gives them room to establish territories and reduces aggression.
Water Parameters for Happy Angelfish
Most captive-bred angelfish are quite adaptable, but they thrive when you aim for their ideal conditions. Consistency is more important than chasing perfect numbers.
- Temperature: 78-84°F (25-29°C). A stable temperature is crucial for their immune system.
- pH: 6.5 – 7.5. Most tap water falls within this range.
- Filtration: Gentle but effective. A canister filter or a hang-on-back filter with an adjustable flow is perfect. You want clean water without creating a strong current that batters their fins.
Aquascaping: Creating a Safe & Beautiful Home
Think “Amazon River.” Angelfish love a planted tank with plenty of vertical cover. This makes them feel secure and mimics their natural environment.
- Tall Plants: Amazon Swords, Vallisneria, and Anubias are excellent choices.
- Driftwood: Vertical pieces of driftwood or spiderwood create natural hiding spots and territorial markers.
- Open Space: Be sure to leave an open area in the front of the tank for swimming and feeding.
How to Care for Different Species of Angelfish: Diet & Tank Mates
Once the tank is set up, daily care is straightforward. Following these simple tips will ensure your angelfish live long, colorful lives.
What to Feed Your Angelfish
Angelfish are omnivores and appreciate a varied diet. Don’t just stick to one type of food!
- A High-Quality Staple: Start with a high-quality cichlid flake or small pellet as their main food source.
- Frozen & Live Foods: Supplement their diet 2-3 times a week with treats like frozen brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, or bloodworms. They will go crazy for these!
- Feed Sparingly: Feed only what they can consume in about 2 minutes, once or twice a day. Overfeeding is one of the biggest causes of poor water quality.
Choosing the Right Tank Mates
This is a critical step! The wrong tank mate can lead to stress, injury, or worse. Here are some different species of angelfish tips for choosing friends:
- Good Choices: Corydoras catfish, Bristlenose Plecos, larger Tetras (like Black Skirts, Rummy Nose, or Lemon Tetras), and Gouramis often work well.
- Bad Choices: Avoid known fin nippers like Tiger Barbs or Serpae Tetras. Also, avoid very small fish like Neon Tetras, as a full-grown angelfish may see them as a snack. Aggressive cichlids like Jack Dempseys are also a definite no.
Common Problems with Different Species of Angelfish (And How to Solve Them!)
Even with the best care, you might run into issues. Don’t worry! Here’s how to handle the most common problems with different species of angelfish.
Aggression and Territorial Disputes
Remember, they are cichlids. A bit of chasing and lip-locking is normal, especially as they mature and pair off. To minimize serious aggression:
- Buy a Group: Start with a group of 5-6 juveniles. This allows aggression to be spread out, and they will naturally form pairs. You can rehome the extras later if needed.
- Provide Cover: A well-planted tank with lots of hiding spots and broken lines of sight is essential.
- Avoid Two Males: Keeping just two males in a smaller tank is a recipe for disaster.
Breeding and Egg Care
If you see a pair meticulously cleaning a leaf or a piece of slate, get ready! They will lay their eggs on a vertical surface. The parents will guard them fiercely, fanning them with their fins. Unfortunately, first-time parents often eat their eggs out of stress or inexperience. If you’re serious about raising fry, it’s best to move the eggs to a separate hatching tank.
Fin Rot and Common Diseases
Nearly all common aquarium diseases, like Ich (white spot) and fin rot, are caused by stress and poor water quality. The best defense is a good offense: perform regular weekly water changes of 25-30%, keep the temperature stable, and don’t overstock your tank. A quarantine tank for all new arrivals is one of the most important different species of angelfish best practices you can adopt.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Angelfish Keeping
Being a responsible aquarist means thinking about our impact. The good news is that practicing sustainable different species of angelfish keeping is easy.
Almost all angelfish varieties for sale are captive-bred, not wild-caught. This is a huge win for the environment, as it protects wild populations in the Amazon. By choosing captive-bred fish, you are supporting a more eco-friendly different species of angelfish hobby.
Support your local fish store or reputable online breeders. And remember, never release any aquarium fish or plants into local waterways. This can cause devastating damage to native ecosystems.
Frequently Asked Questions About Different Species of Angelfish
How many angelfish should I keep together?
You can keep a single bonded pair in a 29-gallon (or larger) tank, or a group of 5-6 in a 55-gallon (or larger) tank. Keeping an odd number like 3 or 5 can help spread out any aggression. Avoid keeping just two non-paired angelfish together, as one will likely bully the other.
Are angelfish good for beginners?
Yes, provided you meet their needs! As long as you have a tall-enough tank (at least 29 gallons) and are committed to weekly water changes, a hardy variety like the Silver or Marble Angelfish is a wonderful and rewarding fish for a dedicated beginner.
Can different angelfish varieties live together?
Absolutely! Since they are all color variations of the same species (P. scalare), you can mix and match to your heart’s content. A tank with a mix of Koi, Marble, and Platinum angelfish can be incredibly beautiful.
Why is my angelfish hiding all the time?
Hiding is usually a sign of stress. The most common causes are aggressive tank mates, poor water quality, or a tank that is too bare. Try adding more tall plants or driftwood to give them more cover and make them feel secure.
How can I tell if my angelfish are a male and female?
It’s notoriously difficult to tell, especially when they are young. As they mature, males may develop a small nuchal hump (a bump on their head). The most definitive way is to observe their breeding tubes when they are ready to spawn; the female’s is shorter and wider, while the male’s is smaller and more pointed.
Your Angelfish Adventure Awaits
Whew, that was a lot of information! But now you have a complete different species of angelfish guide to help you on your journey. You know the most popular varieties, how to create the perfect home for them, and how to handle any bumps along the road.
Angelfish are more than just pets; they are living art. They bring elegance, personality, and a touch of the wild Amazon right into your living room. Don’t be intimidated—be excited!
You are now equipped with the knowledge and confidence to go out and choose the perfect angelfish. Go forth, set up that beautiful tall tank, and get ready to welcome the King of the Aquarium into your home. Happy fishkeeping!
- Honey Gourami Clamped Fins – Expert Guide To Diagnosis, Treatment, And - December 14, 2025
- Gourami Upside Down – Decoding Behavior & Ensuring A Thriving, Healthy - December 14, 2025
- Gourami Swimming Vertically – Deciphering Behavior & Ensuring Health - December 14, 2025