Angelfish and Guppies are tropical species of fish that are extremely popular in fish stores and aquarium showcases.
While the Angelfish is commonly found in freshwater, the Guppies are more often found in aquariums.
We are here to determine whether the two distinct fishes can inhabit a shared space.
So, can Angelfish live with Guppies? To answer directly, yes, they can be roommates; however, you must understand how exactly these two fishes must be carefully monitored if they coexist.
Let’s find out what exactly these two species are and what it entails for their survival in your fish tank.
Understanding Angelfish
The freshwater Angelfish, also scientifically known as the Pterophyllum scalare, is known for its unique genes.
Rooted in the Cichlidae family, there is a wide variety of fishes, including the Angelfish, that are distinct when it comes to breeding behavior.
They are most commonly found in the South American basin along the flows of the Amazon River and have differing colors and shapes of the fin.
This fish has a large variety of types regarding patterns as well; some are found in the classic color of silver, while others are black, gold and even have distinct marbling on their body.
Owing to this, each fish has a specific attraction to it and allows fish lovers to add a spice of color to their tanks.
They are fishes that require ample space, perhaps a 20-gallon aquarium with its water kept at 78-82°F and a pH level of 6.
5 – 7.
5.
They are susceptible to their surroundings, so filtration and an adequate hiding area are necessary.
Understanding Guppies
The Poecilia reticulata, commonly referred to as the Guppy is a tiny yet largely colorful fish that’s well-liked for its excitable temperament.
Like the Angelfish, they can be seen wearing various vivacious colored suits with distinct patterns.
While males have longer tails, female guppies have a less colorful appearance and do not lay eggs but birth live fruit.
Unlike the Angelfish, they can thrive in a small tank of 10-gallon and require a water temperature of 75-82°F and an alkalinity level of about 6.
8 to 7.
8.
Hard water is not a problem when raising Guppies in a tank; they also accept all kinds of green food, but also shrimps, pellets, and flakes.
Contrary to misconceptions of Guppies being low maintenance, they are quite hardy and require utmost care when it comes to their health and environment.
They cannot actually live in small bowls as people assume; there is a need for sufficient space and filtration for the small fish to survive.
Can Angelfish Live with Guppies?
The Angelfish and Guppy are fishes that can thrive in similar water conditions, i.
e.
, tropical temperature water of around 75-82°F, so this can be seen as a compatible trait.
The two fishes are also very calm species, so they will not likely be in a position of danger as Guppies are not the type of fish that provoke others.
However, a large aquarium with abundant hiding spaces will eliminate risks of aggressive and territorial behavior.
As Guppies are pretty small (1.
5 – 2.
5 inches) compared to the Angelfish, which is sized 6-8 inches, and this gap in size can make the Angelfish perceive the small Guppies as prey so that they might hunt them down.
Unlike the Guppy, the Angelfish does exhibit sins of aggression at times, and if they become territorial, it might endanger the lives of the Guppies.
While Angelfish can be found in the upper areas of the tank, Guppies are small and scattered all around, which can lead to significant stress.
There have been successful attempts at maintaining a tank with Angelfish and Guppies, but there is a necessity for a huge tank and good hiding spots.
Your experience as an aquarist of two different fishes also depends on various factors, such as the Angelfish’s nature and how it distracts itself from other tank mates.
What you can do is carefully examine their movements and check for any aggressive behavior (chasing or fin-nipping).
If you find that aggression is becoming more of an issue, it is better to find another habit for one of them.
Compatibility Considerations
Although one big issue is their size difference, so putting them in the same space would mean problems with territory, overcrowding, and even potential hunting and chasing.
Growing Guppies might be too small and be perceived as prey by the Angelfish due to their slightly aggressive temperament.
There is also a difference in dietary habits, so catering to their individual needs will be pretty tricky.
As much as it is hard to take care of the two together, you mustn’t forget that it is not impossible.
The idea of this diversity in your aquarium tank will be visually aesthetic and appeal to many eyes.
Since they have different behaviors and personalities when they are swimming about, this can make the tank quite an exciting display.
Many plants can provide hiding spaces for the smaller Guppies if they are seeking refuge during breeding periods.
If you maintain a selected gender for Angelfish, such as females only, it could promote peaceful cohabitation due to fewer breeding periods.
You can keep a lot more species other than these two so that the bigger Angelfish can lead their life without harming Guppies.
Before any introduction, it is well advised that you closely monitor the way each of these fish acts by keeping them separate at first.
If you notice any concerning behavior that you think might be violent or territorial, you should probably maintain a barrier between the two.
When introduced, allow them to interact without any direct confrontation so they can get accustomed to their surroundings.
If you find any harassment instances, you might have to re-home one of them.
Conclusion
While they are quite a handful to monitor, if you have the willingness to take the time, these fishes will go quite well together.
Angel fishes can live happily with the tiny Guppies and several other fishes in a large tank.
Worst case scenario is a display of violent and harmful behavior, this can be solved by rehoming or picking a bigger tank and leaving more living plants in it.
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