Angelfish

Angelfish are Amazonian fish with a distinctive triangular shape and stripes on their body. They are the most commonly kept cichlid, and have been bred into a variety of colours.

Snapshot

Maintenance

Angelfish require a water temperature of 26 to 30°c and require a tank of about a metre and a half for a pair.

Sociability

Angelfish are semi-aggressive, and will eat smaller fish that fit into their mouths.

Ego

Angelfish are highly territorial and pair for life.

Greed

Angelfish are voracious eaters, and will eat for a few minutes at least twice a day.

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Miley Cyrus

Pimp My Tank

Prefers tall objects or plants to hide amongst.

Popular Names

Gabriel, Angela, Conrad

Health & Care

Angelfish require reasonably large tanks, as they can grow fairly large. They will readily breed when the temperature is raised, and the partners will defend each other when shoaling. They are particularly sensitive to water changes.

Key Facts

AVERAGE LIFESPAN
Up to 10 years
AVERAGE SIZE
20 -30 cm

Common Conditions

Angelfish virus

This virus is very infectious of which there is no treatment or medication, as such it's up to the fish's immune system to cure itself. Symptoms include clamped fins, excess slime, listless behaviour with nose pointed up slightly, usually towards the back of the aquarium. Infections usually last up to 3 weeks.

Flagellates

Often appearing in stressed angelfish, protozoans and hexamita are the most common. It is thought to be present in all angelfish, at least in small numbers, and an outbreak is what you're trying to prevent. Symptoms are white, chalky faeces but the appetite tends to decrease. Relieving stress and raising the tank's temperature to 35°c for 7-10 days plus medicating with metronidazole ought to clear things up.

Tip for first-time owners

It’s best to keep angelfish in pairs, as they become territorial; start with a larger shoal and see which couple up.

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