Can Guppy and Angelfish Be Kept Together in an Aquarium

Integrating various ornamental fish into a single aquarium can significantly enhance its visual appeal and add to the joy of fishkeeping. Today, we delve into a popular question: Are Siamese fighting fish (goldfish) and angelfish suitable companions for each other in a mixed tank?

Can Siamese fighting fish and angelfish be kept together?

It is generally not advisable to house Siamese fighting fish and angelfish in the same tank. Here are several reasons why:

1. Size Disparity: Goldfish can grow to be as large as 2030 centimeters, whereas angelfish typically measure only 35 centimeters. This significant size difference can lead to unintentional harm or stress on the smaller angelfish.

2. Water Temperature Requirements: Goldfish can thrive in a broad range of temperatures, from 0 to 38 degrees Celsius, while angelfish are tropical fish and require a more specific range of 1832 degrees Celsius.

3. Dietary Preferences: Goldfish are herbivores, enjoying a diet of algae, aquatic plants, and fruits, whereas angelfish prefer live food, such as algae, water fleas, and earthworms, making feeding more challenging.

4. Water Quality: Most goldfish have delicate constitutions, and keeping them with angelfish could lead to crosscontamination of bacteria, potentially causing illness and even death in the goldfish.

5. Behavioral Differences: Goldfish are lively and tend to be more active, while angelfish prefer a quieter environment. This difference in behavior can cause stress to the angelfish, affecting their health.

What types of fish are suitable companions for Siamese fighting fish and angelfish, respectively?

For Siamese fighting fish:

Goldfish can be kept with species like gouramis and barbs, which are generally docile and herbivorous. However, it's best to keep them separately due to their delicate nature and susceptibility to illness.

For angelfish:

1. Tetras: Fish like the redeye tetra, flagfish, black skirt tetra, neon tetra, and cardinal tetra share a similar size and temperament with angelfish.

2. Maries: Fish such as the maries and mollies are gentle in nature and have a similar size to angelfish, making them compatible tank mates.

3. Some small oviparous ornamental fish: Species like moonfish, gold gourami, and black mollies are peaceful and thrive in slightly alkaline water, much like angelfish.

4. Small ratfish: Fish like the dwarf gourami and betta fish are tropical and small in size, posing no threat to angelfish and are thus suitable companions.

In conclusion, while it is technically possible to keep Siamese fighting fish and angelfish together, it is not recommended. To ensure the health and beauty of both species, it's best to keep them in separate tanks. Angelfish can be mixed with other small tropical fish such as tetras, flagfish, maries, and moonfish for a harmonious and visually stunning aquarium.