Angelfish — Fish Profile
Pterophyllum scalare
Quick Specs
| Adult Size: | 5.9" |
| Temperament: | semi-aggressive |
| Care Level: | intermediate |
| Min Tank Size: | 40 gallons |
| Temperature: | 75-82°F |
| pH Range: | 6.5-7.5 |
| Diet: | carnivore |
| Origin: | South America (Amazon Basin) |
| Lifespan: | 10-15 years |
Overview
Angelfish are elegant, tall-bodied fish that add grace to community tanks. They can be territorial and may eat small fish.
Care Guide for Angelfish
Tank Setup
Angelfish requires a minimum tank size of 40 gallons. Maintain water temperature between 75°F and 82°F, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. A properly sized tank with adequate filtration and regular water changes is essential for long-term health. When housing Angelfish with other species, always choose a tank size that accommodates the most demanding fish in the community.
Feeding
Angelfish is a carnivore feeder. Provide a varied diet appropriate for carnivore species to ensure optimal health and coloration. Feed small portions 2–3 times daily, and remove uneaten food after a few minutes to maintain water quality.
Temperament & Compatibility
This species is classified as semi-aggressive. Angelfish reaches an adult size of 5.9 inches and has a care level of intermediate. Always research compatibility before adding new fish to an established aquarium. Individual temperament can vary, so monitor new introductions closely for the first 48 hours.
Origin & Lifespan
Angelfish originates from South America (Amazon Basin) and has an expected lifespan of 10-15 years when kept in proper water conditions with appropriate tank mates and diet.
Compatible Tank Mates
🟡 Caution Tank Mates
🔴 Risky Tank Mates
Compatibility Results for Angelfish
All 69 compatibility checks involving Angelfish:
Expert Care Tips for Angelfish
- Mid-size tank: Angelfish needs 40+ gallons. Choose a tank at least 2× as long as the fish's adult size (5.9") for adequate swimming room.
- Warm-water species: Angelfish prefers 75–82°F. Use a reliable submersible heater with a thermostat — avoid temperature swings above 2°F per day.
- Narrow pH tolerance: Angelfish only tolerates pH 6.5–7.5. Test your tap water before buying — adjusting pH is harder than choosing the right fish for your water.
- Semi-aggressive temperament: Angelfish is generally peaceful but can become territorial. Provide ample hiding spots and avoid housing with fin-nipping species.
- Acclimation: Always drip-acclimate Angelfish over 30–45 minutes. Match temperature and pH gradually to prevent osmotic shock.
Tools & Resources
⚠️ Angelfish Diseases: Hexamita, Ich & Capillaria Guide
Angelfish are relatively hardy cichlids but are susceptible to parasitic infections, particularly Hexamita and internal nematodes. Their tall body shape makes swim bladder issues more visible, and imported angelfish from breeding farms frequently carry Capillaria parasites. Proper quarantine of new arrivals is essential.
Hexamita (Spironucleus)
Symptoms: White stringy feces; loss of appetite; headstanding or off-balance swimming; hole-in-the-head lesions in severe cases; weight loss; darkened coloration
Treatment: Treat with Metronidazole (Flagyl) — 250mg per 10 gallons every other day for 3 doses, or mix into food at 1% by weight. Raise temperature to 86°F. Perform 25% water changes before each treatment dose. Combine with Epsom salt (1 tbsp per 5 gallons) for best results. Hexamita is often secondary to poor water quality — fix the root cause.
Ich (White Spot Disease)
Symptoms: Small white spots on fins and body; fish rubbing against decorations; rapid gill movement; clamped fins; hiding behavior
Treatment: Gradually raise temperature to 84-86°F (angelfish tolerate higher temps). Treat with malachite green or a combination treatment. Add aquarium salt (1 tsp per 2 gallons). Angelfish with long fins are especially vulnerable — treat early before secondary bacterial infections set in. Continue treatment for 10-14 days.
Capillaria (Threadworm Nematode)
Symptoms: Chronic weight loss despite eating; white or clear stringy feces; sunken belly; lethargy; secondary bacterial infections from immune suppression
Treatment: Treat with Fenbendazole (Panacur) mixed into food at 0.25% by weight for 3 days, or Levamisole bath at 2ppm for 24 hours. Repeat in 2 weeks. Capillara eggs persist in substrate — vacuum thoroughly. This is extremely common in farmed angelfish. Quarantine all new angelfish for 4-6 weeks with prophylactic deworming.
Always quarantine sick fish and consult an aquatic veterinarian for persistent health issues.