How Many Angelfish Should Be Kept Together: Factors and Housing Requirements

If you’re thinking of setting up your aquarium, there are a few things you’ll need to consider first. One of the most important factors is how many angelfish should be kept together. Angelfish are social fish, and they need plenty of company to keep them happy and healthy.

There is no definitive answer, as it depends on the individual angelfish’s needs and personality. Some individuals prefer to be kept alone, while others might do better in groups of five or more of their species. Additionally, some fish are more aggressive than others and may need the help of other fish to take care of the dominant or hungry members.

Do Angelfish Like to Be Kept Together?

Angelfish are tropical fish that come in a variety of colors and patterns. They are solitary creatures but can be kept in groups with compatible companions. Angelfish require little attention and should not be left alone for extended periods. Additionally, since none of the angelfish species are incredibly aggressive, your fish will not do well if overcrowded.

This means that they congregate in groups and sometimes swim alongside one another. While they are not technically considered schooling fish, it can be beneficial for angelfish to be kept in groups as it helps them keep them safe from predators and establishes social hierarchies amongst the group.

Why Is It Essential to Keep Angelfish Together?

Angelfish need social interaction to thrive. If they are kept alone, they may become lonely and stressed out. Additionally, when angels are kept together, their swimming habits tend to be more coordinated as they work together to find food or explore their surroundings. However, if your fish are kept too closely together, they may start to fight or territorialize.

What Tank Size Do You Need to Keep Angelfish Together?

The size of the tank needed to house a group of angelfish will vary depending on the specific needs and personalities of the individual fish. Typically, tanks that are at least 55 gallons in size are required. In addition, angelfish are mostly non-aggressive and can be kept in groups of up to five, though three is preferred. If you wish to maintain more than one fish together, it will require a larger tank so that the other companion fish have enough room on their own.

Minimum and Maximum Tank Size for Keeping Angelfish in a Group

• Minimum Tank Size – A tank at least 55 gallons in size is necessary to house a group of angelfish.

• Maximum Tank Size – Groups of 5 or more fish require a tank that is 150 gallons in size or larger.

Is It Suitable to Keep More Angelfish Together?

Suppose you have the space and resources, yes. You can house groups of up to six angelfish in a 150-gallon tank or larger. It is entirely up to you how many angelfish you might have together in your tank. In addition, make sure to provide plenty of room for them to swim and explore on their own.

Avoid Overcrowding

Overcrowding is one of the main reasons that angelfish may start to behave erratically or exhibit signs of stress. When angels are confined, they cannot swim as freely as they would if they had more room to move around. This can lead to conflicts among the fish over resources and territory, which can ultimately cause them harm.

What Are the Best Tankmates for Angelfish?

Angelfish are usually peaceful and can be kept in groups of up to five. However, selecting fish, you are familiar with is always a good idea before adding them to your aquarium. Some recommended tank mates for angelfish include:

• Parrot Cichlids – Another option for tank mates is cichlids. These brightly colored fish can be pretty active and loved by angelfish. However, they should always be supervised to avoid aggression from other tank mates.

• Barracuda – While not recommended for a community tank, barracudas can occasionally get along with angels if given a chance.

• Corydoras – Corydoras are another excellent option for a community tank. They’re hardy fish that can handle some aggression from other household members, making them an ideal candidate for angelfish owners who want to house more than one fish in their aquarium.

What Are the Worst Tankmates for Angelfish?

You should not keep angelfish with any fish that are larger than them, as these predators could attack and eat the smaller angelfish. Some other fish to avoid in an angelfish aquarium include:

• Giant moray eels – These large predators can easily knock over a small angelfish in their territory.

• Crayfish – While crayfish may feed on live food, they can also create problems for angel fish.

Aquarium Requirements When Keeping Angelfish Together

Temperature

An angelfish aquarium should have a water temperature of 78-84 degrees Fahrenheit and a pH of 6.8-7.8. They require plenty of plant matter to hide in, and some areas are slightly elevated off the bottom for them to lay eggs.

Water Hardness

Some angelfish prefer hard water while others do not. However, if your local water has a high mineral content, you may want to soften it before adding angel fish.

Filtration

Angelfish do not require exceptional filtration, but they should be kept in a tank with good quality water. A wave maker or airstone can help keep the aquarium clean and healthy.

Lighting

Angelfish only require minimal lighting, typically a single light that sits near the water surface. In addition, angelfish will appreciate a diffuser to mimic the natural sunlight.

Substrate

An angelfish aquarium substrate should be made of coral sand, limestone, or other pieces of aquatic plants. Additionally, the substrate should be rooted with aquatic plants to help create shade.

Plants & Decorations

Some angel fish like to live in groups and need lots of plants, decorations, and territory to call their own. Other angels prefer a more solitary lifestyle and won’t require as many plant pieces or ornaments.