Angelfish Compatibility Guide: What Fish to Keep Together

Angelfish are a stunning and popular choice for freshwater aquariums. Their graceful appearance and unique personalities make them a favorite among fish keepers. However, choosing the right tank mates for angelfish is essential to ensure a peaceful and thriving environment. If you're wondering, "What fish can go with angelfish", this comprehensive guide will help you understand their compatibility with other species.

Understanding Angelfish Behavior and Tank Requirements

Before selecting tank mates, it’s important to understand the nature of angelfish. They are semi-aggressive, territorial, and grow relatively large, reaching up to 6 inches in length and 8 inches in height. They prefer warm, slightly acidic water (75-82°F, pH 6.5-7.5) and need a spacious tank, ideally 30 gallons or more.

Angelfish are generally peaceful when young but may become territorial as they mature, especially during breeding. Keeping this in mind, it’s best to choose non-aggressive fish that can hold their own without provoking the angelfish.

Best Tank Mates for Angelfish

Here are some of the best fish that can coexist peacefully with angelfish:

1. Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras are bottom-dwelling fish that are peaceful, active, and help keep the substrate clean. Since they stay at the bottom of the tank, they don’t interfere with angelfish, making them ideal companions.

2. Bolivian Rams

Bolivian Rams are gentle cichlids that share similar water parameters with angelfish. They are non-aggressive and add vibrant color to the tank without causing conflicts.

3. Rummy Nose Tetras

These schooling fish are known for their peaceful nature and attractive red noses. Since they prefer to swim in the middle and upper levels, they do well with angelfish as long as they are kept in groups of six or more.

4. Dwarf Gouramis

Dwarf Gouramis are colorful, relatively peaceful, and occupy different swimming zones, reducing the likelihood of territorial disputes with angelfish.

5. Swordtails

Swordtails are active and vibrant fish that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. They are peaceful but may show mild aggression if kept in small numbers, so maintaining a balanced male-to-female ratio is recommended.

6. Platies

Platies are small, peaceful, and adaptable fish that can easily coexist with angelfish. They come in a variety of colors and are easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners.

7. Zebra Danios

Zebra Danios are fast swimmers that usually stay in the upper portion of the tank. They are compatible with angelfish as long as they are kept in a group to prevent fin-nipping behavior.

8. Bristlenose Plecos

Bristlenose Plecos are excellent algae eaters that help keep the tank clean. They are peaceful, bottom-dwelling fish that do not interfere with angelfish.

9. Keyhole Cichlids

Keyhole Cichlids are one of the most peaceful cichlid species and can coexist with angelfish without aggression. They have a shy temperament and tend to avoid conflicts.

10. Neon Tetras (With Caution)

Neon Tetras are small, peaceful fish that can live with angelfish, but only if they are introduced early when angelfish are still young. Keeping a large school of neon tetras reduces the risk of predation.

Fish to Avoid Keeping with Angelfish

While some fish make great companions, others should be avoided due to their aggressive nature or fin-nipping tendencies. Here are a few species that are not recommended:

• Tiger Barbs – Known for their fin-nipping behavior, they may harass angelfish.

• Betta Fish – Male bettas can be territorial and may fight with angelfish.

• Oscars – Oscars are large and aggressive cichlids that may see angelfish as food.

• African Cichlids – Most African cichlids are too aggressive to be housed with angelfish.

• Goldfish – Goldfish require cooler water temperatures, making them incompatible with angelfish.

Tips for a Peaceful Angelfish Community Tank

To ensure a harmonious tank environment, follow these essential tips:

1. Choose the Right Tank Size

A spacious tank (at least 30 gallons) is necessary to provide enough swimming space for angelfish and their tank mates.

2. Maintain Proper Water Conditions

Keeping the water temperature between 75-82°F and maintaining a pH of 6.5-7.5 will ensure a healthy environment for all tank inhabitants.

3. Add Plenty of Hiding Spots

Decorations, driftwood, and plants provide shelter and help reduce territorial disputes.

4. Introduce Tank Mates at the Right Time

Adding tank mates while angelfish are still young increases the chances of them coexisting peacefully.

5. Monitor Aggression

Observe the tank regularly to ensure that no fish are being bullied or stressed. If necessary, separate aggressive individuals.

Conclusion

Selecting the right tank mates is crucial for creating a peaceful and visually stunning angelfish aquarium. By choosing species such as Corydoras Catfish, Bolivian Rams, and Bristlenose Plecos, you can establish a balanced community tank. If you're still wondering, the key is to select non-aggressive fish that share similar water conditions and swimming habits. With careful planning, you can create a thriving aquarium where all species live in harmony.