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Angelfish

Angelfish

Origin

South America

Habitat Size

75-100 ltrs

Water Type

Fresh Water

Water Temperature

24º-28ºC

Cost in India

₹500 - ₹1,000

Size

5 - 6 inches (Medium)

Diet

Omnivore

Golden angelfish swimming gracefully near green aquatic plants in aquarium
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by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 10 Nov 2025

The Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are one of the most stunning and unique aquarium fish of the hobby. With their long, pointed fins and flowing motion, they add a grace of elegance to community aquaria. With marble, koi, and silver kinds of angelfish, they are valued for their appearance and intelligence.

Although generally peaceful in disposition, Angelfish do become territorial when breeding, so they will thrive in medium to large tanks. They are social as well and should be kept in a small group rather than alone.

Origin of the Angelfish

Angelfish inhabit the South American Amazon River Basin, i.e., slow-moving plant-filled waters of Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. Wild angelfish reside on roots and dense plants in which their flattened body can swim through plants and wreckage with elegance.

Temperament of the Angelfish

Angelfish are usually tranquil but are semi-aggressive while spawning or protecting territories. Angelfish are very intelligent and inquisitive and will know their owners. They can be kept within community tanks with each other provided they are given loads of space and places to hide.

Angelfish Compatibility with Other Fish

Angelfish coexist peacefully with non-aggressive, similarly-sized fish. Suitable tank mates are:

  1. Corydoras catfish
  2. Dwarf gouramis
  3. Mollies and swordtails
  4. Large tetras like black skirt or rummy-nose tetras

Don't place fin-nipping fish like barbs or impossibly small fish like neon tetras (who may be eaten).

Angelfish Price Range

The Angelfish will cost between ₹300–₹1,000 ($5–12), depending upon variety and size. Fancy varieties like koi or platinum angelfish will cost even more.

Characteristics

Temperament

Aggressive

Friendly

Compatibility with other fishes

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Habitat Size

Small

Large

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Angelfish Habitat Requirements

Initial Setup Cost

₹5,000 - ₹10,000

Water Temperature

24º -28ºC

Water Type

Fresh Water

PH Level

6.5 - 7.5

Tank Setup

  1. Tank Type: Freshwater
  2. Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons for a pair; 55 gallons or bigger for a group
  3. Substrate: Gravel or fine sand
  4. Decor: Hiding rocks, tall plants, and driftwood
  5. Lighting: Moderate with natural light simulation

Water Conditions

  1. Temperature: 24–29°C (75–84°F)
  2. pH Level: 6.5–7.5
  3. Water Hardness: 3–8 dGH

Environment Needs

Angelfish adore tall tanks where they swim vertically. Utilize plants such as Amazon swords or Anubias that mimic their own environment. Utilize soft water circulation and regular parameters to prevent stressing them.

Essential Equipment

Aquarium tank

Water filter

Heater

Light

Substrate

Decor

Nutritional Guide of the Angelfish

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹500 - ₹ 1,000

Angelfish are omnivores and have a wide variety of food to consume in order to remain healthy and colorful.

The best foods are:

  1. High-quality flakes or cichlid pellets
  2. Frozen foods or live foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia
  3. Blanched vegetables such as spinach or zucchini.

Feeding Tips:

Feed twice daily and give them just enough food so that they will take two minutes to eat. Alternating between frozen and dry foods will provide a balanced diet.

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Health & Care of the Angelfish

Common Health Issues

Fin rot

Fungus

White spot / ick

Signs of good health

Bright coloration

Active

Good apetite

Signs of sickness

Loss of appetite

Lethargic behaviour

Dull coloring

Common Problems of the Angelfish

Ich (White Spot Disease)

Parasitic disease in the form of small white spots on body or fins.

  1. Symptom: Fish rubbing, visible white spots
  2. Treatment: Gradually raise temperature to 28°C and administer antiparasitic treatment

Hole-in-the-Head Disease

Due to an inappropriate diet or contaminated water.

  1. Symptom: Small holes or sores on the head
  2. Treatment: Enhance quality of water, provide vitamin-enriched foods, and administer metronidazole-based treatment

Gill Flukes

Small flukes that infect the gills and result in breathing issues.

  1. Symptom: Wiggly gill action, surface gulping
  2. Treatment: Administer antiparasitic treatment and water change

Prerequisites for a Fish

Effort & commitment

Cleanliness

Enriching Environment

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Happy Pet Team

Author

Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How large do Angelfish grow?

They reach 6 inches in length and 8 inches high, fins included.

Do Angelfish live alone?

Yes, but prefer to live in pairs or small groups due to social reasons.

How long do Angelfish live?

Normally 8–10 years well looked after.

Does Angelfish require a heater?

Yes, they enjoy a constant warm temperature of 24–29°C.

How can I tell Angelfish are spawning?

Clean surfaces are used by pairs for egg-laying and these will be fiercely guarded until hatch.