Feeding angelfish: a balanced diet in the aquarium
The angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) is a majestic but demanding cichlid when it comes to diet: in the wild it is an opportunistic predator hunting small prey and invertebrates. A diet too low in animal protein slows its growth and dulls its colours. A study published in 2015 in an aquaculture journal on the growth and reproductive performance of angelfish by feed type showed that diets rich in animal protein markedly improve growth and survival compared with flakes alone (study on Google Scholar). Our nutrition guides are gathered in the fish food section.
What dietary base?
A good base combines quality cichlid pellets or flakes, rich in protein, topped up with regular meaty foods. Angelfish enjoy variety, which stimulates appetite and better covers their needs.
Live and frozen foods
- Bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia: excellent frozen, they mimic the natural diet.
- Live food: much appreciated, it triggers hunting behaviour; see our guide on live and frozen fish food.
- Plant matter as a supplement: a small vegetable share balances the whole without dominating the ration.
How often should you feed?
Two small meals a day, eaten in a few minutes, beat one large portion. Overfeeding pollutes the water and promotes obesity: it is the most common beginner mistake.
Adapting to the tank
In a community tank, make sure the angelfish, sometimes a slow eater, gets its share against livelier fish. Our guide on a community or species-only aquarium helps you build a coherent population around it.
Frequently asked questions
Can an angelfish eat its tankmates?
It can swallow very small fish or shrimp that fit in its mouth, so avoid pairing it with tiny species.
How long can it fast?
A healthy adult angelfish easily tolerates a day or two without food, for instance during a short absence.
Should you vary the food daily?
Alternating food types over the week is enough; overall balance matters more than variety at every meal. Browse all our guides on the fish hub.
This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Fishkeeping universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.