Angelfish General Description

Angelfish are one of the most popular species of freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. They are characterized by their vertically compressed, almost disc-shaped bodies and tall, elongated dorsal and anal fins. They can reach a maximum size of 12 inches in height and 6 inches in diameter. They are also a fairly hardy species of fish and although somewhat temperamental at times, make excellent choices for both beginner and intermediate aquarists.

Angelfish are one of the most popular species of freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby.

Origins

They are native to the Amazon River basin in South America.

Color

They come in vibrant shades of red, yellow, orange, silver, gray and black.

Maintenance and care

Angelfish are a relatively hardy species of fish and can live for 5-10 years when provided with adequate care and excellent water conditions. They do not require large open swimming spaces and do best in aquariums planted heavily with reedy plants. They should be housed in large aquariums with sufficient height to accommodate their tall body shapes. Angelfish are diurnal and prefer dimly lit aquariums with ample hiding spaces.

Although they are generally considered a peaceful species of fish, they can sometimes be territorial. It is advisable to raise them in a group of 6 or more as this often dulls their aggression and bullying. They are also known fin nippers and can harass species of fish with long flowing fins like Betta splendens, guppies and goldfish. They are also predatory and can stalk and devour very small tank mates like neon tetras.

Feeding

Angelfish are a carnivorous species and thrive when fed on live foods like bloodworm, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae and tube worms. They can also be fed on chopped beef liver and will accept most flake and pellet based foods.

Angelfish are a relatively hardy species of fish and can live for 5-10 years when provided with adequate care and excellent water conditions.

Breeding

Angelfish can be fairly hard to identify sex as the species shows no obvious signs of sexual dimorphism. Male angelfish are however known to develop a slight bump on their heads when breeding and females sometimes display a small tube like egg spot near their ventral openings. Angelfish lay their eggs on flat surfaces like broad leaf plants and both parents guard the eggs. Once a pair is established they will often spawn quite readily given the right water conditions and sufficient space.

Aquarium varieties

Zebra, Silver, Marbled, Veiltail, Half-Black, Golden Morph, etc.

Photo credit: Jeff Kubina/Flickr