Freshwater Angelfish Care SheetFreshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are among the most popular and elegant fish in the aquarium hobby. With their graceful fins and curious personalities, they make a beautiful addition to any freshwater tank. Native to the slow-moving waters of the Amazon Basin, these fish thrive in warm, slightly acidic environments. This care sheet covers the essential aspects of angelfish care to help ensure they live a healthy and happy life in captivity.Tank RequirementsAngelfish require a minimum tank size of 20 gallons for a single adult, but a 30-gallon or larger tank is ideal for a pair or small group. They are tall-bodied fish, so choose a tank with good height. Keep in mind that angelfish can grow up to 6 inches long and 8 inches tall. Provide plenty of swimming space along with some tall plants or driftwood for cover. A tight-fitting lid is important, as they may jump when startled.Water ParametersAngelfish prefer warm, soft, slightly acidic water. The ideal parameters are:Temperature: 76°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C)pH: 6.5 to 7.5Hardness: 3° to 8° dKHMaintain clean water through regular water changes (25–30% weekly) and use a gentle filter to avoid strong currents. Use a heater to keep temperatures stable.Diet and FeedingAngelfish are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods. A balanced diet should include high-quality flakes or pellets, supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. Feed 2–3 times daily in amounts they can consume in about two minutes. Overfeeding can cause water quality issues, so be cautious.Tank MatesAngelfish are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially during breeding. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or fin-nipping species. Good tank mates include tetras (larger varieties like black skirts or lemon tetras), corydoras, peaceful gouramis, and other community fish that are not too small (avoid fish small enough to be seen as prey).BreedingAngelfish form monogamous pairs and can be bred in captivity. When ready to breed, the pair will clean a flat surface, such as a broad leaf or aquarium glass, on which the female lays eggs. The male follows to fertilize them. Parents often guard the eggs and fry, although some may eat their first few clutches. Providing a separate breeding tank improves success.Health and MaintenanceCommon issues include ich, fin rot, and bacterial infections. These are often caused by poor water conditions, so regular maintenance and monitoring are key. Quarantine new fish before adding them to your tank to prevent introducing disease. Watch for signs of illness such as clamped fins, lethargy, or loss of appetite.Behavior and PersonalityAngelfish are intelligent and can recognize their caregivers. They may even come to the front of the tank during feeding times. While typically peaceful, each fish has a unique personality, and occasional squabbles can happen, especially in smaller tanks.
