Angelfish for sale in the Netherlands

Angelfish: behaviour and suitability

Young angelfish seek security among their own kind. Adult pairs defend a vertical spawning site. They may eat small fish and displace slower tank mates when the aquarium is cramped. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Use an aquarium at least 120 cm long and 50 cm tall with gentle flow, subdued light, vertical plants or roots and soft, slightly acidic water. Maintain 24–28 °C and avoid very small fish or fin-nipping tank mates. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Check for dull or damaged skin, clamped fins, abnormal body shape and rocking or crooked swimming. Ask about origin and water values. Angelfish may develop conditions including hole-in-the-head disease, white spot, velvet and fin rot. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.