Guppies and Angelfish in Their Natural Habitat
Guppies and angelfish are popular aquarium fish, but they come from different natural environments. Guppies are native to the freshwater streams and rivers of the Caribbean and northeastern South America, where they live in peaceful communities with other small, peaceful fish. Angelfish, on the other hand, are native to the Amazon River basin in South America, where they inhabit slow-moving, heavily planted waterways and can be more aggressive in their behavior.
Guppy and Angelfish Water Chemistry
While guppies and angelfish can both thrive in various water conditions, their optimal water parameters differ slightly. Guppies prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH between 6.8 and 7.8, while angelfish do best in slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Additionally, angelfish require higher levels of dissolved oxygen than guppies. These differences in water chemistry preferences can make it challenging to create an environment that meets the needs of both species.
Can Angelfish Live With Guppies in the Same Aquarium?
While it is possible to keep guppies and angelfish together in the same aquarium, it is generally not recommended. The key issue is the difference in their temperaments and behaviors. Guppies are peaceful, community fish that thrive in the company of other small, peaceful species. Angelfish, on the other hand, are known to be more aggressive and territorial, especially as they mature.
Aggressive vs Predatory Fish
Angelfish are not necessarily predatory towards guppies, but their aggressive nature can still pose a threat. Angelfish may chase, nip at, or even consume smaller guppies, especially guppy fry and juveniles. This constant stress and harassment can take a toll on the guppies, leading to poor health, stunted growth, and even death.
Keeping Guppies With Aggressive Fish Species
In general, it is best to avoid keeping guppies with any fish species that are known to be aggressive or predatory. Guppies are simply not well-equipped to defend themselves against larger, more dominant fish. Even if the aggressive fish do not directly consume the guppies, the constant stress and harassment can be detrimental to the guppies’ overall well-being.
Is Guppy Fry In Danger Of Being Eaten?
Yes, guppy fry are particularly vulnerable to being eaten by larger, more aggressive fish like angelfish. Guppy fry is small, slow-moving, and lacks the defences to protect themselves. Angelfish, with their larger size and predatory nature, will readily consume guppy fry given the opportunity.
How Can I Save My Guppy Fry?
If you want to successfully raise guppy fry in the presence of angelfish, you will need to provide plenty of hiding places and break up the line of sight in the aquarium. Dense plants, decorations, and even a separate breeding tank can help protect the vulnerable fry from being spotted and consumed by the angelfish.
Compatible Tank Mates for Adult Guppies
Guppies do best when kept with other peaceful, community fish species that have similar water requirements. Some good tank mates for adult guppies include other small livebearers like mollies and platies, as well as small tetras, rasboras, and corydoras catfish. The key is to choose tank mates that are not likely to harass or consume the guppies.
Suitable Tank Mates for Adult Angelfish
Angelfish are best kept with other peaceful, community fish that can hold their own against the angelfish’s more aggressive tendencies. Suitable tank mates for adult angelfish include other large, peaceful cichlids, as well as certain types of tetras, barbs, and rasboras.
What Fish Can Go With AngelFish?
Some good tank mates for adult angelfish include:
- Other large cichlids like discus or serums
- Peaceful tetras like cardinal or neon tetras
- Peaceful barbs like tiger or cherry barbs
- Peaceful rasboras like harlequin or galaxy rasboras
- Corydoras catfish
- Plecos
In Conclusion
While it is technically possible to keep guppies and angelfish together in the same aquarium, it is generally not recommended. The aggressive nature of angelfish and their potential to consume guppy fry and smaller adult guppies makes them poor tank mates for the peaceful, community-oriented guppy. For the best chance of success and the overall health and well-being of your fish, it is better to keep guppies and angelfish in separate aquariums with more suitable, compatible tank mates.
