Assorted Angelfish

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Assorted Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are among the most recognisable freshwater aquarium fish, admired for their tall, elegant bodies, flowing fins and impressive range of colours and patterns. This assortment may include gold, silver, black, marble, koi and other selectively bred varieties, with each fish offering its own distinctive appearance.

Native to tropical South America, including the Amazon River basin, freshwater angelfish naturally inhabit slow-moving waters with submerged roots, aquatic vegetation and sheltered areas. Selective breeding has produced a wide range of ornamental colour forms, making assorted angelfish a popular centrepiece for larger freshwater aquariums. 

Angelfish have a distinctive, laterally compressed body with long dorsal and anal fins that create their characteristic triangular silhouette. Depending on the variety, their markings may include vertical black stripes, metallic silver scales, golden tones, mottled marble patterns or contrasting patches of orange, white and black.

Behaviour and Aquarium Suitability

Assorted Angelfish are graceful swimmers that spend most of their time in the middle levels of the aquarium. They are generally manageable in a community tank when young, but as they mature they can become territorial, particularly when forming pairs or protecting eggs.

A tall aquarium of around 200 litres or larger is recommended for a group of growing or adult angelfish, with additional space needed depending on stocking and compatibility. Aim for an aquarium approximately 45–50 cm tall or more to accommodate their long fins and adult body shape.

Create a natural environment with tall aquatic plants, driftwood, broad leaves and open swimming areas. Gentle to moderate water flow is preferable, and reliable filtration is important to maintain good water quality.

Feeding and Nutrition

Angelfish are omnivores that readily accept a varied diet. Offer quality tropical flakes, floating or sinking cichlid pellets, and frozen or live foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia and bloodworms.

Feed once or twice daily in portions that can be consumed within a few minutes. Young fish may benefit from smaller, more frequent meals to support healthy growth. A varied diet helps maintain body condition, colouration and fin development.

Compatibility and Specific Care Requirements

Assorted Angelfish can suit larger community aquariums with appropriately sized, peaceful fish. Potential companions include larger tetras, peaceful gouramis, corydoras catfish and bristlenose catfish, provided their water requirements are compatible.

Avoid very small fish that may be eaten as the angelfish mature, particularly tiny schooling fish and newly hatched fry. Fin-nipping species and aggressive tankmates can also cause problems. If keeping several angelfish together, monitor their behaviour as they mature, since established pairs may defend a territory aggressively.

Maintain stable, warm freshwater conditions and perform regular partial water changes. With suitable space, compatible tankmates and a nutritious diet, assorted angelfish make an impressive centrepiece for a planted freshwater aquarium. 

Quick Care Guide

Care guidelines are based on the common freshwater angelfish, Pterophyllum scalare. Assorted colour varieties share the same basic care requirements. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How big do Assorted Angelfish grow?

They can reach approximately 15 cm in body length and 20–25 cm in total height, including their extended fins. Allow enough vertical swimming space for their adult size.

2. Are Assorted Angelfish suitable for beginners?

They can be suitable for aquarists with some experience or beginners prepared to provide a sufficiently large, warm and well-maintained aquarium. Their adult size and territorial behaviour need to be considered before purchase.

3. What do Assorted Angelfish eat?

They accept tropical flakes, cichlid pellets, frozen foods and suitable live foods. Providing a varied diet supports healthy growth and vibrant colouration.

4. Can Assorted Angelfish live with small fish?

Small fish may be eaten as angelfish mature, particularly species small enough to fit into their mouths. Choose tankmates carefully and avoid assuming that peaceful behaviour towards larger fish means all small fish are safe.

5. Can I keep several Angelfish together?

Yes, provided the aquarium is sufficiently large. However, angelfish may form pairs and become territorial as they mature, so monitor chasing and aggression and be prepared to separate incompatible fish.

6. Are Assorted Angelfish suitable for planted aquariums?

Yes. They look particularly impressive among tall plants and driftwood. Provide open swimming areas and avoid overcrowding the aquarium with decorations.

Common Mistakes

1. Choosing a tank that is too short: Angelfish grow tall and need sufficient vertical swimming space. Choose a suitably tall aquarium rather than judging capacity by litres alone.

2. Keeping them with tiny fish: Small schooling fish and fry may become prey as angelfish mature. Select tankmates based on adult size.

3. Ignoring territorial behaviour: Adults can become aggressive when pairing or breeding. Monitor interactions and provide enough space to establish separate territories.

4. Feeding an unvaried diet: Relying exclusively on one food type may limit dietary variety. Combine quality prepared foods with suitable frozen or live foods.

5. Allowing water quality to deteriorate: Angelfish need clean, stable water. Maintain filtration, test water parameters and perform regular partial water changes.

6. Mixing them with fin-nipping fish: Their long fins can be damaged by persistent fin-nippers. Choose peaceful companions and monitor fin condition.