What Fish to Avoid Keeping with Angelfish

Angelfish are a popular choice for freshwater aquariums due to their elegant appearance and unique personalities. However, their semi-aggressive nature and specific environmental needs mean that not all fish are suitable tank mates. If you're wondering, "What fish can go with angelfish", it's equally important to know which fish should be avoided. This guide will help you identify the species that may cause aggression, stress, or compatibility issues when housed with angelfish.

Understanding Angelfish Behavior and Tank Requirements

Before selecting tank mates, it's essential to understand angelfish behavior:

• Temperament: Angelfish are semi-aggressive and can become territorial, especially during breeding.

• Size: They can grow up to 6 inches long and 8 inches tall, requiring ample space.

• Water Parameters: Angelfish thrive in temperatures between 75-82°F, with a pH of 6.5-7.5.

• Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended to provide enough room for angelfish and their tank mates.

Given these factors, choosing inappropriate fish can lead to stress, fights, or even fatalities in your tank.

Fish to Avoid Keeping with Angelfish

1. Tiger Barbs

Tiger Barbs are notorious fin nippers, which makes them a bad match for angelfish. Angelfish have long, flowing fins that Tiger Barbs are likely to target, leading to stress and potential injury.

2. Betta Fish

Betta fish, especially males, are highly territorial and aggressive. Since angelfish can also be territorial, keeping them together often leads to frequent fights. This combination can result in stress, injuries, or even fatalities.

3. Oscars

Oscars are large, aggressive cichlids that grow much bigger than angelfish. They tend to dominate the tank, potentially attacking or even eating smaller angelfish. Additionally, Oscars require a larger tank and different water conditions.

4. Goldfish

Goldfish and angelfish have completely different environmental needs. Goldfish prefer cooler temperatures (65-75°F), while angelfish require warmer water (75-82°F). Keeping them together will cause stress and potential health problems.

5. African Cichlids

Most African cichlids are extremely aggressive and territorial. They tend to outcompete angelfish for food and space, leading to bullying and constant stress. Additionally, African cichlids thrive in higher pH levels (7.5-8.5), which is not suitable for angelfish.

6. Guppies

Although guppies are peaceful, their small size makes them vulnerable. Adult angelfish may see guppies as prey and attempt to eat them, especially if the guppies are introduced when the angelfish are fully grown.

7. Red-Tailed Sharks

Red-Tailed Sharks are known for their territorial and aggressive nature. They can harass angelfish by constantly chasing them, which leads to stress and an unhealthy tank environment.

8. Jack Dempseys

Jack Dempseys are aggressive cichlids that grow much larger than angelfish. They often bully or attack smaller fish, including angelfish, making them an unsuitable tank mate.

9. Convict Cichlids

Convict Cichlids are known for their aggression and territorial behavior. They tend to attack other fish, including angelfish, making them a poor choice for a community tank.

10. Danios (With Caution)

Some fast-swimming danio species, such as Giant Danios, can be fin nippers and may stress out angelfish by constantly chasing them. If keeping danios, choose peaceful species and keep them in a group to minimize aggression.

Why Avoid These Fish?

The fish listed above are problematic for angelfish tanks due to one or more of the following reasons:

• Aggression: Fish like Oscars, Convict Cichlids, and Jack Dempseys are too aggressive and territorial.

• Fin-Nipping Behavior: Tiger Barbs and some Danios tend to nip at angelfish fins, causing stress and injury.

• Size Mismatch: Large fish like Oscars and Jack Dempseys can view angelfish as prey.

• Different Water Requirements: Goldfish and African Cichlids require different water conditions, making them unsuitable companions for angelfish.

Alternative Fish That Can Live with Angelfish

If you're still asking, "What fish can go with angelfish?", here are some better options:

• Corydoras Catfish – Peaceful bottom dwellers that help keep the tank clean.

• Bolivian Rams – Gentle cichlids that coexist well with angelfish.

• Rummy Nose Tetras – Schooling fish that add movement without aggression.

• Dwarf Gouramis – Non-aggressive, colorful fish that stay in the upper levels.

• Platies & Swordtails – Active but peaceful fish that adapt well to community tanks.

• Bristlenose Plecos – Algae eaters that stay out of the angelfish’s way.

Tips for a Peaceful Angelfish Community Tank

To maintain a stress-free environment, follow these key tips:

1. Choose the Right Tank Size – A 30-gallon tank or larger allows enough space for angelfish and tank mates.

2. Maintain Proper Water Conditions – Keep the temperature at 75-82°F and pH between 6.5-7.5.

3. Provide Hiding Spots – Use plants, rocks, and driftwood to create hiding places and reduce aggression.

4. Introduce Fish Carefully – Adding tank mates when angelfish are young helps them adapt to new companions.

5. Monitor Behavior Regularly – Keep an eye on aggression and be ready to separate any problematic fish.

Conclusion

While angelfish are stunning and rewarding to keep, not all fish make suitable tank mates. Species like Tiger Barbs, Oscars, and Betta Fish can cause stress, injuries, or even fatalities in a community tank. Instead of aggressive or fin-nipping fish, choose peaceful companions like Corydoras Catfish, Bolivian Rams, and Rummy Nose Tetras. If you're still wondering, "What fish can go with angelfish?", selecting compatible species ensures a thriving and harmonious aquarium.