Experts do not recommend keeping Angelfish and Goldfish together. It is a controversial topic in the aquarium hobby. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why angelfish and goldfish are incompatible tank mates and why it’s best to keep them separate.
Reasons Angelfish Cannot Live With Goldfish
Competition for Food
Angelfish and goldfish have vastly different dietary requirements. Angelfish are carnivorous and prefer a diet of live or frozen foods, such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and small crustaceans. Goldfish, on the other hand, are omnivorous and thrive on a diet of flakes, pellets, and occasional vegetables.
This mismatch in feeding habits can lead to competition for food, with the more aggressive angelfish outcompeting the slower-moving goldfish for the available resources.
Mannerisms
Angelfish are known to be territorial and aggressive, especially as they mature. They may view goldfish as a threat and attempt to bully or even attack them. Goldfish, being generally peaceful and docile, are often unable to defend themselves against the aggressive behavior of angelfish. This can result in the goldfish becoming stressed, injured, or even killed.
The Difference in Water Conditions
Angelfish and goldfish have vastly different water parameter requirements. Angelfish prefer warm, slightly acidic water with a pH of around 6.5-7.5, while goldfish thrive in cooler, neutral to slightly basic water with a pH of around 7.0-8.0.
Trying to accommodate both species’ needs in a single aquarium can be challenging and may lead to suboptimal water conditions for one or both species.
The Difference in Aquarium Size
Angelfish and goldfish also have different space requirements. Angelfish are relatively large fish that can grow up to 6 inches in length, while goldfish can reach even larger sizes, up to 12 inches or more. Keeping these two species together in a small aquarium can quickly lead to overcrowding and increased stress levels for both fish.
Can Angelfish Kill Goldfish?
Yes, angelfish can kill goldfish, especially as the angelfish mature and become more aggressive. The angelfish’s larger size and territorial behavior can pose a significant threat to the more docile goldfish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while it may have been a common practice in the past, keeping angelfish and goldfish together is generally not recommended by experienced aquarists. The differences in feeding habits, water parameter requirements, and overall behavior make these two species poor tankmates. To ensure the health and well-being of both your angelfish and goldfish, it’s best to house them in separate aquariums or with other compatible species.
