What Fish Can Go With Angelfish – A Complete Guide To Peaceful
There’s nothing quite like the sight of a majestic angelfish gliding through a beautifully planted aquarium. With their elegant fins and regal presence, they are truly the kings and queens of the freshwater world. But as many aquarists discover, figuring out what fish can go with angelfish can feel like a tricky puzzle. Their semi-aggressive cichlid nature means that one wrong choice can turn your peaceful paradise into a stressful battleground.
I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be that way. With years of experience setting up and maintaining community tanks, I promise to guide you through the entire process. We’ll demystify angelfish behavior and give you the confidence to build a thriving, harmonious aquarium you can be proud of.
In this complete what fish can go with angelfish guide, we’ll dive deep into the best (and worst!) tank mates. We’ll cover the ideal tank setup, troubleshoot common problems, and share pro tips that will set you up for success from day one. Let’s create your dream angelfish community together!
Understanding Angelfish Temperament: The Key to Harmony
Before we even start listing fish, the most important step is to understand the star of the show. Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are cichlids. This means they are intelligent, have distinct personalities, and can be territorial, especially as they mature.
Think of them as “semi-aggressive.” They aren’t outright bullies like an Oscar, but they aren’t pushovers either. They establish a pecking order within their own group and claim vertical territories in the tank. This is why tall aquariums are their best friend!
A young angelfish might be shy and peaceful, but as it grows, its confidence and territorial instincts will increase. This behavior becomes even more pronounced if a pair forms and decides to breed. Don’t worry—this is all normal! Knowing this helps us choose tank mates that won’t compete for the same space or become victims of this natural behavior.
The Best Tank Mates: Our Top Picks for Angelfish Companions
Alright, let’s get to the fun part! Choosing the right companions is all about balance. We’re looking for fish that are peaceful, occupy different areas of the tank, and are not small enough to be seen as a snack. This is one of the most critical what fish can go with angelfish best practices.
Peaceful Dither Fish: Tetras, Rasboras, and Danios
Dither fish are active, mid-water swimmers that help make your angelfish feel more secure. Their constant, peaceful movement signals to the angelfish that there are no predators nearby. For this to work, they need to be large enough not to get eaten and fast enough to stay out of the way.
- Rummy Nose Tetras: My personal favorite! Their bright red noses are a great “health indicator” (they fade when stressed), and they school together beautifully.
- Black Skirt Tetras: A classic choice. They have a deeper body, making them a safe size, and they are very hardy. Avoid the long-fin varieties, as they can be targets for nipping.
- Congo Tetras: A larger, more dazzling tetra with iridescent scales. They are robust and fast, making them an excellent choice for bigger tanks (55+ gallons).
- Harlequin Rasboras: These peaceful fish have a lovely temperament and their iconic black triangle makes them stand out. They are a perfect, calm companion.
- Zebra Danios: Incredibly fast and always on the move, these fish are far too quick for an angelfish to bother with. They are a great, energetic addition.
Pro Tip: Always introduce tetras and other schooling fish in proper groups of at least 6-8 individuals. This makes them feel safe and confident, which is key to a peaceful tank dynamic.
Hardy Bottom Dwellers: Corydoras and Plecos
Bottom dwellers are a fantastic addition because they stay out of the angelfish’s way entirely. They patrol the substrate, cleaning up leftover food and adding a ton of activity to the lower level of your tank. A complete what fish can go with angelfish care guide must include these hardworking janitors.
- Corydoras Catfish: Adorable, peaceful, and industrious. Species like the Bronze, Albino, or Panda Cory are perfect. Keep them in groups of 6 or more—they are highly social and will be much happier.
- Bristlenose Plecos: Unlike the common pleco that grows into a monster, the Bristlenose stays a manageable 4-5 inches. They are algae-eating machines and will mind their own business.
- Kuhli Loaches: These unique, eel-like fish are shy and nocturnal. They are masters at burrowing and hiding, and you’ll get glimpses of them slinking around the bottom of the tank.
Unique Centerpiece Companions
Want another fish that can share the spotlight? There are a few options that can hold their own with an angelfish without causing chaos. This is how to take your community tank to the next level.
- Dwarf Gouramis: These colorful labyrinth fish are generally peaceful. They tend to stick to the upper levels of the tank. Introduce them carefully and watch for any signs of territorial disputes, as both can be a bit bossy.
- German Blue Rams: These are dwarf cichlids, so you’re mixing cichlids here. However, they are relatively peaceful and stick to the bottom half of the tank. This can be a stunning combination in a well-established, larger tank (55+ gallons) for a more experienced aquarist.
– Pearl Gouramis: A larger, yet incredibly peaceful gourami. Their elegant look complements angelfish beautifully, and their gentle nature makes them one of the best centerpiece cohabitants.
What Fish Can Go With Angelfish: The Essential Tank Setup Guide
Your success doesn’t just depend on the fish you choose—it depends heavily on the environment you create. Providing the right setup is one of the main benefits of what fish can go with angelfish successfully, as it reduces stress for all inhabitants.
Tank Size and Shape are Crucial
When it comes to angelfish, height is as important as length. They need vertical swimming space for their tall bodies.
A 29-gallon tank is the absolute minimum for a pair of angelfish, but I strongly recommend starting with a 55-gallon tank or larger for a community setup. A larger tank provides more territory for everyone, drastically reducing aggression.
Create a Natural, Structured Environment
An empty, open tank is a recipe for disaster. Angelfish need structure to feel secure and to establish their territories. This is where you can get creative!
- Tall Plants: Use plants like Amazon Swords, Vallisneria, and Java Fern. These provide vertical cover and break up sightlines, which is essential for preventing constant territorial squabbles.
- Driftwood: Adding pieces of driftwood creates complex structures, caves, and hiding spots for all your fish.
- Open Swimming Space: While you want structure, be sure to leave an open area in the front or middle of the tank for the angelfish to swim freely.
Fish to AVOID: A Critical List of Incompatible Tank Mates
Just as important as knowing what fish to add is knowing what fish to avoid. Adding the wrong fish can lead to stress, injury, or death. Learning about these common problems with what fish can go with angelfish ahead of time will save you a lot of heartache.
The Notorious Fin Nippers
Angelfish have long, flowing fins that are an irresistible target for nippy fish. This is stressful and can lead to secondary infections.
Avoid: Tiger Barbs, Serpae Tetras, and some hyperactive Danios. They will relentlessly harass your angelfish.
Anything Small Enough to be Food
Remember, angelfish are predators. If a fish can fit in their mouth, it will eventually end up there. This is a very common mistake for beginners.
Avoid: Neon Tetras (unless the angelfish are very young and grow up with them), Endler’s Livebearers, and fancy Guppies. Shrimp like Cherry Shrimp are also an expensive snack.
Aggressive or Large Cichlids
Don’t mix angelfish with other large, aggressive cichlids. They will be outcompeted for food and territory, and will likely be bullied to death.
Avoid: Oscars, Jack Dempseys, Convict Cichlids, and most African Cichlids (who also require completely different water parameters).
Slow-Moving, Long-Finned Fish
While angelfish can be victims of fin nipping, they can also be the perpetrators, especially towards slow-moving fish they see as competition.
Avoid: Bettas. This is a recipe for disaster. Their long fins and aggressive nature clash horribly with angelfish.
A Note on Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Fishkeeping
Part of being a great aquarist is being a responsible one. When you’re searching for tank mates, consider the source. Opting for captive-bred fish over wild-caught specimens is one of the best ways to practice sustainable what fish can go with angelfish husbandry.
Captive-bred fish are hardier, already accustomed to aquarium life, and their sale doesn’t deplete wild populations. Supporting local fish stores that prioritize ethical and eco-friendly what fish can go with angelfish sourcing helps protect the natural habitats we all love. It’s a win-win for you, your fish, and the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Angelfish Tank MatesCan I keep neon tetras with angelfish?
This is the classic question, and the answer is: it’s risky. If you raise very young, dime-sized angelfish with a full-grown school of neons, it can work. However, if you add neons to a tank with adult or even sub-adult angelfish, they will almost certainly be viewed as food. For peace of mind, it’s better to choose a larger tetra like Cardinals or Rummy Noses.
How many angelfish should I keep together?
You can keep a single angelfish, a mated pair, or a group of 5 or more. Keeping 3 or 4 often leads to two pairing off and bullying the others. A larger group helps to spread out any aggression, so no single fish bears the brunt of it. This is one of the key what fish can go with angelfish tips for long-term success.
Should I add the angelfish to the tank last?
Yes, this is an excellent strategy! By adding your dither fish and bottom dwellers first, you allow them to get established and claim their own spaces. Introducing the angelfish last makes them the “new kid on the block” and can significantly reduce their initial territorial aggression.
Your Peaceful Angelfish Tank Awaits
Building a stunning community tank with angelfish as the centerpiece is one of the most rewarding experiences in the aquarium hobby. It’s not about luck; it’s about knowledge, planning, and a little bit of patience.
By understanding their nature, choosing compatible friends, and creating the right environment, you’ve unlocked the secret to a harmonious aquarium. You now have a complete what fish can go with angelfish roadmap to follow.
So go ahead, plan your dream tank with confidence. The underwater world of graceful angelfish and their peaceful companions is waiting for you. Happy fishkeeping!
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