Guide
Angelfish (angel fish) care guide
A practical care guide for freshwater angelfish: tank size, feeding, and compatibility basics.
- 30 gallons minimum for a pair; bigger is better for groups.
- Prioritize tank height, stable warm water, and strong maintenance habits.
- Choose tank mates carefully and avoid tiny fish that can be eaten.
What are angelfish?
Freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are South American cichlids. People search both "angelfish" and "angel fish" - they mean the same aquarium fish.
Tank size and setup
A pair of angelfish usually needs at least a 30-gallon tank, with more space for groups. They are tall-bodied fish, so tank height matters. Use gentle-to-moderate flow, stable heating, and plenty of vertical swimming room.
Water and temperature
Keep temperature around 76-82 F (24-28 C). Stable water quality is key: ammonia and nitrite should stay at zero, nitrate low with regular water changes. Track readings with a test kit and logging routine.
Feeding
Feed a varied diet: quality flakes or pellets, plus occasional frozen foods. Avoid overfeeding; angelfish are enthusiastic eaters and leftovers quickly reduce water quality.
Temperament
Angelfish are generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially in breeding condition. They may eat very small fish that fit in their mouth.
Keep learning
Stable aquariums come from consistent testing and patient stocking. Continue with our water parameters guide, how to cycle a tank, and combining fish safely. For logging and strip scans, see App-aquatic.
Log parameters, scan strips offline, and run stocking checks with App-aquatic.
Get the free appWhat are angelfish?
Freshwater angelfish ( Pterophyllum scalare ) are South American cichlids. People search both "angelfish" and "angel fish" - they mean the same aquarium fish.
Tank size and setup?
A pair of angelfish usually needs at least a 30-gallon tank, with more space for groups. They are tall-bodied fish, so tank height matters. Use gentle-to-moderate flow, stable heating, and plenty of vertical swimming room.
Water and temperature?
Keep temperature around 76-82 F (24-28 C). Stable water quality is key: ammonia and nitrite should stay at zero, nitrate low with regular water changes. Track readings with a test kit and logging routine.
Feeding?
Feed a varied diet: quality flakes or pellets, plus occasional frozen foods. Avoid overfeeding; angelfish are enthusiastic eaters and leftovers quickly reduce water quality.
Temperament?
Angelfish are generally peaceful but can be territorial, especially in breeding condition. They may eat very small fish that fit in their mouth.
More guides · Angelfish tank mates · Angelfish tank size · Water parameters