Angelfish Tips

By Stephen J Broy

Angelfish are cataloged in one of the largest families of vertebrates known to science. The family Cichlidae is made up of over 1,300 classified species in 220 different genera. Previously undiscovered species are being added to this family every year. It is estimated that there could be as many as 3,000 species that fall within the scientific classification of this family. This family, referred to in laymen's terms as cichlids, includes oscars, discus and tilapias. Many sources will tell you that angelfish are endemic to the Amazon River in Brazil. While this is true, this species can also be found in the Orinoco River and Essequibo River basins. The angelfish's natural habitat extends throughout Guyana, Venezuela, and Columbia as well as Brazil.

These fish are intriguingly beautiful creatures. Angelfish are among the most popular fish with fish lovers throughout the world. Their unique disk contour without doubt added to their massive popularity. Angels are sold in an assortment of color palettes, from unadorned to striped, veined, black, golden, or Koi. These fish are one of the most common fish sold in pet stores. Angels are extremely economical. Angelfish are amongst the easiest fish to care for.

A single glance at these little guys in the fish shop and you'll want to take one home. The angels on display in the fish shops have not yet reached maturity. Angels normally reach six inches in diameter as adults. They can be housed in a fish tank as small as 10 gallons although 20 gallons and is more obliging to their adult size.

Angelfish are docile . Angelfish are perfect community dwellers. These fish will, however, regard smaller species as a means of nutrition. Refrain from keeping them with species such as rasboras, zebra danios and guppies. You will also want to avoid housing angels with fish like barbs and tetras. Both are notorious fin nippers. An angelfish's long, flowing fins will be perceived as snack, too appealing to pass by.

Angelfish are omnivores. Their diet should contain both plant and animal matter. You will want to make sure to choose a fish food that is formulated for omnivores as a main staple. A good quality flake food is all you will need to keep your angelfish healthy and happy. Many fish keepers prefer to provide an assortment of dietary supplements in addition to the primary diet. Although this is not strictly mandatory, it is recommended. Would you want to have the exact same thing for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day of your life? A varied regimen will help to guarantee optimum health. Dried seaweed sheets make a wonderful dietary supplement for omnivores. Protein based supplements such as brine shrimp, tubifex and bloodworms are great alternatives to common fish food. Frozen and freeze dried preparations are easy to find and are a cost effective alternative to live food.

These fish inhabit South America. They prefer water on the acidic side of the pH scale. A pH factor of 6.8 and temperatures between 72-86 degrees Fahrenheit is the ideal environment. In an ideal environment an angelfish may live in excess of 10 years.

Unlike many inhabitants of the Amazon River, these fish do not consume their new born. As a matter of fact, the proud parents will instinctively stand guard over their eggs through the 3-4 day gestation period. Once they are born, the new parents will steer their brood from plant to plant for the next four or five days. At some predetermined point, the adult's parental instinct will dissipate. The adults will now perceive their fry as a food source. It is advisable to remove them from the breeding tank. - 29953

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