Angelfish: Tank Size, Tank Mates & How Many to Keep

What size tank does an angelfish need?

At least 55 gallons (208 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable. We give the size for an adult fish, because the small fish in the shop will grow. Scientific name: Pterophyllum scalare.

How many angelfish in each tank size?

This is how many each standard tank carries comfortably if angelfish are the only fish in it. Share the tank with other species and the number goes down.

Tank	How many angelfish
5 gallon	Too small
10 gallon	Too small
20 gallon long	Too small
29 gallon	Too small
40 gallon breeder	Too small
55 gallon	up to 2
75 gallon	up to 2
125 gallon	up to 4

Check angelfish against your own tank and other fish

Good to know

Tall body: needs a tank at least 45 cm (18 in) high. Eats very small fish such as neon tetras once adult.
Its long fins are a target. Avoid fin-nippers such as tiger barbs and serpae tetras.

Tank mates for angelfish

These animals like the same water, are a safe size, and have a temper that fits. It is a match on paper: always watch new tankmates for the first week.

Poor matches

Betta: Betta often attacks other fish with long, flowing fins, such as angelfish.
Neon tetra: Angelfish (about 6 in) can eat neon tetra (about 1.4 in).
Fancy goldfish: Goldfish do best with other fancy goldfish.
Tiger barb: Tiger barb nips fins and angelfish has long fins. Avoid this pair.

Can angelfish live with...

Questions and answers

What size tank does an angelfish need?

At least 55 gallons (208 liters). The smallest standard tank that works is the 55 gallon. A bigger tank is always easier to keep stable.

How many angelfish should be kept together?

One is fine. An angelfish does not need company, though a large enough tank can hold more than one.

Can angelfish live in a 10 gallon tank?

No. Angelfish needs at least 55 gallons (208 liters), and grows to 6 in (15 cm), far too long for a 20 inch tank.

What temperature do angelfish need?

75–86 °F (24–30 °C), with a pH of 6–7.8. In most homes that means a heater.

Can angelfish live with a betta?

It is not a good match. Betta often attacks other fish with long, flowing fins, such as angelfish.

More fish

Adult size, tank size and water ranges follow the mainstream care consensus (Seriously Fish species profiles and FishBase maximum lengths). Where sources differ we use the more cautious figure. Stocking numbers come from our stocking calculator.