The Ultimate Angelfish Tank Mates Guide (Best & Worst Companions)

The Golden Rules for Angelfish Compatibility

Before diving into specific species, understanding a few core principles will empower you to make smart choices on your own. A potential tank mate must pass these four tests to be considered compatible.

1. Size Matters (In Both Directions): The most important rule is to avoid any fish small enough to fit in an adult angelfish’s mouth. Tiny fish like Neon Tetras or Ember Tetras will eventually become expensive snacks. Conversely, avoid fish that are overly large and boisterous, as they can bully and outcompete your angelfish for food.
2. Avoid Fin Nippers at All Costs: The long, flowing fins of an angelfish are an irresistible target for notorious fin-nipping species. Constant nipping leads to stress, ragged fins, and secondary infections like fin rot. This is a non-negotiable rule.
3. Temperament is Key: Angelfish are “semi-aggressive.” This means they are generally peaceful but can become territorial, especially with each other or when breeding. They should not be kept with overly aggressive fish (like many other cichlids) or extremely timid fish that will be easily intimidated.
4. Shared Environment: All tank mates must thrive in the same water parameters. Angelfish prefer warm water ($76–82°F$ or $24–28°C$) with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.5). Do not pair them with fish that require completely different conditions, like cold-water goldfish.

The Best Tank Mates for Angelfish (The “Yes” List)

These species are tried-and-true companions that generally coexist peacefully with angelfish in a properly sized aquarium.

Peaceful Bottom Dwellers

These fish occupy a different level of the tank, minimizing direct competition and conflict.

• Corydoras Catfish: The perfect bottom-dwelling companion. They are peaceful, active, and will clean up leftover food. Keep them in groups of 6 or more.
• Bristlenose Plecos: An excellent algae-eater that minds its own business. Unlike common plecos, they only grow to about 4-5 inches and are not aggressive.
• Kuhli Loaches: These eel-like loaches are shy and peaceful scavengers. Keep them in groups of 5 or more so they feel secure enough to explore.

Ideal Mid-Water Schooling Fish

A large school of peaceful dither fish can make your angelfish feel more secure and adds beautiful activity to the tank.

• Rummy Nose Tetras: One of the best choices. They are large enough to be safe, tightly schooling, and their red noses are a great indicator of good water quality.
• Cardinal Tetras: A classic choice. While slightly smaller than Rummy Noses, they are generally safe if introduced when the angelfish are still young and small.
• Black Skirt Tetras: A hardy and appropriately-sized tetra that is generally peaceful. Avoid the long-fin varieties, which can sometimes become nippy.
• Harlequin Rasboras: A beautiful and incredibly peaceful schooling fish from Asia that adapts well to angelfish water parameters.

Peaceful Cichlid Companions

You can keep angelfish with other cichlids, but you must choose carefully.

• German Blue Rams: A stunning dwarf cichlid that is relatively peaceful. They can be sensitive to water quality, so they are best for a mature and stable tank.
• Bolivian Rams: A hardier and slightly larger alternative to the German Blue Ram. They are peaceful and do a great job of sifting through sandy substrates.

Bad Tank Mates for Angelfish (The “No” List)

Adding any of the following species to your angelfish tank is a recipe for disaster. Please avoid them to ensure a peaceful aquarium.

• Aggressive Fin Nippers: This is the most important group to avoid.
  • Tiger Barbs: The absolute worst offender. They will relentlessly harass your angelfish and shred their fins.
  • Serpae Tetras: Known for their nippy behavior, especially when not kept in a large enough school.
  • Most Bettas: While beautiful, a male betta may see the long fins of an angelfish as a threat, leading to aggression from either party.
• Aggressive & Large Cichlids:
  • Oscars, Jack Dempseys, Green Terrors: These fish are far too large, aggressive, and predatory to be housed with the more delicate angelfish.
  • Most African Cichlids: They require completely different water parameters (hard, alkaline water) and are known for high levels of aggression.
• Fish That Will Be Eaten:
  • Neon Tetras: The classic angelfish snack. While they sometimes coexist in very large tanks if introduced early, the risk is extremely high.
  • Guppies & Endlers: They are small, flashy, and will be hunted down by adult angelfish.
  • Most Freshwater Shrimp: Except for the larger Amano or Vampire shrimp, smaller species like Cherry or Crystal shrimp are an expensive and tempting meal.

Angelfish Stocking Guide: How Many in Your Tank?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions. Stocking correctly is vital for managing aggression and maintaining water quality. This guide assumes you are using a properly set up aquarium, as detailed in our Angelfish Tank Setup Guide.

• 20-Gallon Tank: Not recommended for adults. A 20-gallon high can be used as a temporary grow-out tank for a few juveniles or as a dedicated breeding tank for a single confirmed pair, but it is too small for long-term adult life.
• 40-Gallon Breeder Tank: This is an excellent size for a confirmed breeding pair. It also works well for growing out a group of 4-5 juveniles before moving them to a larger tank.
• 55-Gallon Tank: This is the “sweet spot” and a highly recommended starting size for an angelfish community. It provides the necessary height and footprint to comfortably house a group of 4 to 6 adult angelfish among other appropriate tank mates.
• 75-Gallon Tank (or Larger): An outstanding choice that gives your fish ample territory. You can keep a larger, more impressive group of 6 to 8 adult angelfish and have more flexibility with other tank mate choices.

Conclusion: Building a Harmonious Community

Success with angelfish tank mates comes down to thoughtful planning. By respecting their semi-aggressive nature, providing them with a spacious and well-decorated environment, and choosing companions that complement their needs, you can create a stunning and peaceful aquatic display. Always research every fish thoroughly before you buy, and remember that a happy angelfish is one that feels safe and secure in its home.

For a complete overview of angelfish husbandry, be sure to visit our master Freshwater Angelfish Care Page.