What Fish Go Good With Angelfish – A Guide To Peaceful & Thriving Tank
Let’s be honest—staring at the elegant, disc-shaped body and long, flowing fins of an Angelfish is one of the great joys of the aquarium hobby. They are the undisputed kings and queens of the freshwater tank. But that regal presence comes with a question that keeps many aquarists up at night: what fish go good with angelfish?
Choosing the wrong tank mates can turn your peaceful aquatic paradise into a stressful, chaotic mess. You’ve invested time, money, and heart into your aquarium, and the last thing you want is fin-nipping, bullying, or worse.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This is your complete, friendly guide to creating a harmonious community tank with angelfish as the centerpiece. We’ll demystify their behavior, give you a “best of” list of compatible tank mates, and share some pro tips that will make you feel like a seasoned expert. By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence to build a stunning and peaceful aquarium you can be proud of.
Understanding Angelfish Temperament: The Key to Harmony
Before we even list a single fish, the most important step is to understand the star of the show. Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are cichlids, and like many of their cousins, they have a complex personality. They aren’t outright monsters, but they aren’t gentle giants either. The best term is semi-aggressive.
Here’s what that means for you:
- They are Territorial: Angelfish will claim a section of the tank as their own, especially as they mature and pair off to breed. They will defend this territory from intruders.
- They Have a Hierarchy: In a group, angelfish will establish a pecking order. This can involve some chasing and posturing, which is normal.
- They Can Be Predatory: This is a crucial point. An adult angelfish has a surprisingly large mouth. Any fish small enough to fit inside it—like a Neon Tetra or a guppy—is at risk of becoming an expensive snack.
Understanding these core behaviors is the foundation of this entire what fish go good with angelfish guide. Our goal is to select tank mates that won’t trigger their territorial or predatory instincts. Addressing these common problems with what fish go good with angelfish starts with respecting their nature.
The Golden Rules: Your What Fish Go Good With Angelfish Checklist
So, how do you pick the perfect neighbors for your angels? It’s not just about picking names from a list. Following a few best practices will set you up for success. Think of this as your core checklist for compatibility.
Tank Size is Non-Negotiable: Angelfish need vertical space for their tall bodies. A standard 29-gallon tank is the absolute minimum for a pair, but for a community tank, 55 gallons or larger is strongly recommended. More space reduces territorial disputes and stress for everyone.
Temperament Match is Key: You want fish that are peaceful but not timid. Fish that are too shy will be stressed and hide constantly. On the other hand, notorious fin-nippers (we’re looking at you, Tiger Barbs!) are a definite no-go as they will shred those beautiful angelfish fins.
Size Matters (A Lot!): Avoid any fish that are tiny and slender. A good rule of thumb is to choose tank mates that are too big to fit in an adult angelfish’s mouth. Introduce all your fish when the angelfish are still young and small to help them grow up together peacefully.
Match Water Parameters: This is a fundamental of fishkeeping. Angelfish thrive in warmer, slightly acidic to neutral water (76-82°F, pH 6.5-7.5). Their tank mates must be comfortable in the same conditions. This is a critical part of any what fish go good with angelfish care guide.
Top Tier Tank Mates: The Best Fish to Pair with Angelfish
Alright, you’ve got the rules down. Now for the fun part! Here is a curated list of fish that generally do wonderfully with angelfish, creating a vibrant and peaceful community. This is how to what fish go good with angelfish the right way.
Larger, Peaceful Tetras
While tiny tetras are a risk, their larger cousins are fantastic choices. They are active, swim in different levels of the water column, and are too big to be eaten.
- Black Skirt Tetras: Hardy, peaceful, and their classic shape complements angelfish well.
- Rummy Nose Tetras: Their bright red noses are a great indicator of water quality, and they school beautifully.
- Congo Tetras: A stunning fish with iridescent scales and flowing fins. They are fast and robust.
- Bleeding Heart Tetras: A deeper-bodied tetra that is peaceful and large enough to be safe.
Corydoras Catfish
Corys are the perfect bottom-dwelling janitors. They are peaceful, busy, and stay completely out of the angelfish’s way in the middle and upper parts of the tank. They are a must-have for a balanced community.
- Bronze or Albino Corys (Corydoras aeneus): Classic, hardy, and always entertaining to watch.
- Panda Corys: A bit smaller and more sensitive, but adorable and peaceful.
- Sterbai Corys: Beautifully spotted and known to be a bit more tolerant of warmer water.
Pro Tip: Always keep Corydoras in groups of 6 or more. They are highly social and will be much happier and more active in a proper school.
Dwarf Cichlids
Yes, you can keep other cichlids with angelfish! The key is to choose peaceful, smaller species that occupy the bottom of the tank, creating a clear separation of territory.
- Bolivian Rams (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus): Hardier and more peaceful than their German Blue Ram cousins, they are an excellent choice.
- Keyhole Cichlids: One of the most peaceful cichlids available. They are shy and will rarely, if ever, bother an angelfish.
Livebearers
This category comes with a small warning. While many livebearers are compatible, you must avoid small ones like guppies. Stick to the larger, more robust species.
- Mollies: Sailfin and other larger varieties are generally a good fit. They are active and hardy.
- Platies: These are a great choice! They are peaceful, colorful, and just the right size. Don’t worry—these fish are perfect for beginners!
- Swordtails: Similar to platies, they add a lot of activity and color to a tank.
Other Excellent Choices
Here are a few other standouts that make wonderful companions:
- Bristlenose Plecos: Unlike their giant common pleco relatives, Bristlenose stay small (around 4-5 inches) and are fantastic algae eaters. They are armored and keep to themselves.
- Kuhli Loaches: These eel-like bottom dwellers are fascinating and peaceful. They will hide during the day and explore at night, staying well clear of your angels.
Fish to Avoid: A Recipe for a Stressed Aquarium
Just as important as knowing what fish to add is knowing what to avoid. Adding one of these to your angelfish tank is one of the most common problems with what fish go good with angelfish and can lead to disaster.
The Fin Nippers
These fish are notorious for nipping at the long, flowing fins of angelfish, causing stress and infections.
- Tiger Barbs: The classic angelfish bully. Avoid them at all costs.
- Serpae Tetras: While beautiful, they have a well-deserved reputation for fin-nipping.
- Most Danios: Many species, like Zebra Danios, are too hyperactive and can be nippy, stressing out the slower-moving angelfish.
Fish That Are Too Small
As we mentioned, if it fits in their mouth, it’s food. This is not a risk worth taking.
- Neon Tetras & Cardinal Tetras: While beautiful, they are the perfect angelfish snack size. The only exception is if you raise a large school of them with very young angelfish, but it’s still a gamble.
- Guppies: Their small size and flashy fins make them an irresistible target.
- Dwarf Rasboras: Any of the “nano” fish species are unsafe.
Aggressive or Large Fish
Don’t put your angelfish in a position where they become the victim.
- Most other Cichlids: Aggressive African Cichlids or large, territorial South American cichlids like Oscars or Jack Dempseys will bully or kill angelfish.
- Common Plecos: They start small but grow into 2-foot-long tank busters that will wreak havoc in your aquarium.
Setting Up for Success: Best Practices for a Peaceful Angelfish Community
Choosing the right fish is half the battle. Creating the right environment ensures long-term harmony. Following these what fish go good with angelfish best practices will maximize your chances of success.
H3: Tank Layout and Aquascaping
A well-decorated tank isn’t just for looks; it’s crucial for fish behavior. Use tall plants (like Amazon Swords and Vallisneria) and driftwood to create vertical territories and break lines of sight. This allows fish to retreat and feel secure, reducing aggression. A thoughtfully aquascaped tank is one of the main benefits of what fish go good with angelfish—it’s a truly stunning sight.
H3: The Introduction Process
How you add fish matters. The golden rule is to add your angelfish last, or at least when they are very young and small. Add the peaceful community fish (like tetras and corys) first. This allows them to establish themselves before the more territorial angelfish are introduced, which often results in a more peaceful tank dynamic.
H3: A Note on Sustainable Fishkeeping
Part of being a great aquarist is being a responsible one. When sourcing your fish, look for reputable local fish stores or breeders. A healthy, well-cared-for fish is less likely to be stressed and aggressive. This approach to sustainable what fish go good with angelfish keeping ensures the health of your tank and supports ethical practices in the hobby. Quarantining new fish for 2-4 weeks is also an eco-friendly best practice to prevent introducing diseases to your main display.
Frequently Asked Questions About What Fish Go Good With Angelfish
Can I keep multiple angelfish together?
Yes, but with caution. A single angelfish or a mated pair works well. If you want a group, aim for 5 or more to spread out any aggression. A group of two or three non-mated angelfish will often result in two pairing off and bullying the third.
Do angelfish eat shrimp?
Almost always, yes. While a few large Amano shrimp might survive in a heavily planted tank, angelfish will generally view smaller shrimp like Cherry Shrimp as a delicious, free-ranging buffet. It’s best to avoid this combination unless you’re prepared for the shrimp to become food.
What is the minimum tank size for an angelfish community tank?
We can’t stress this enough: a 55-gallon tank is the ideal starting point for a community tank featuring angelfish. It provides the necessary swimming space and vertical height, and the larger water volume helps keep parameters stable and aggression low.
Your Peaceful Angelfish Paradise Awaits
Creating a thriving community tank with angelfish as the centerpiece is one of the most rewarding experiences in the hobby. It’s a dance of personality, size, and environment. By understanding the semi-aggressive nature of your angels, choosing compatible tank mates wisely, and setting up your aquarium for success, you’re no longer guessing—you’re designing.
Remember the golden rules: go big on tank size, choose peaceful mid-sized companions, and decorate to create harmony. Don’t be afraid to take your time and plan your stocking list carefully. The result will be a breathtakingly beautiful aquarium that brings you peace and joy every single day.
Now you have the expert knowledge and one of the best what fish go good with angelfish tips collections around. Go forth and build that stunning aquatic world!
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