Angelfish and Danios

In this post, we will learn about the relationship between Angelfish and Danios. We will also discuss their biology and tank requirements.   

Angelfish and Danios

Danios and Angelfish can be raised together in the same tank. However, some conditions should be guaranteed in order to successfully keep this fish species combination. 

Enough space is extremely important as these fish species require plenty of space to swim around and thrive. Equally important is the introduction of the fish being at the same time, then, both species would be a newcomer to the tank. 

Another important condition during the introduction moment, younger Angelfish tend to be less territorial than adult ones. For this reason, introducing them while young would assist you in having a healthy non-stressed environment.

Can I put Danios with Angelfish?

Yes, Danios are, in general, peaceful fish that will do very well with Angelfish. Keeping Danios and Angelfish can work well and the differences in their size and temperament lead them to be a great contrast to one another. 

Angelfish are medium-sized triangular-shaped fish that hang in the middle of the water column and they look amazing, while the Danios occupy the entire tank space, making the environment feel more natural.

Keeping an Ideal Habitat

The first factor you must keep in mind, it to provide a tank with enough space and set it up adequately for both the Danios and the Angelfish to thrive.

Danios are less difficult to keep than the Angelfish. It is highly recommended at least a 20-gallon tank for Danios. Additionally, they do not do well if kept solo. 

Each Danio needs at least 2 to 3 gallons of water to be comfortable. These fish will swim around the aquarium in a small school, which is why they are considered shoaling fish. 

They are a constantly active species of fish, and therefore, need enough room to move through the plants (artificial or live), rocks, and other tank structures.

Danios kept in a large school are less likely to exhibit aggression towards other fish. The ability to hide will also defuse aggressive behaviours, as fish aggression is often a defence mechanism.

Angelfish, on the other hand, requires significantly more space than the Danios. A full-grown Angelfish needs at least a 20-gallon aquarium to be comfortable. The full-grown Angelfish can reach 6 inches in length. 

As fairly passive fish that generally just floats in the middle of the tank, looking pretty, Angelfish are still large fish that need enough space to travel comfortably and safely.

For an Angelfish and Danios tank, you should get at least 75-gallon. Keep in mind to set enough hiding spots and plants. Thus, the fish can establish their territory without issues.

These two fish have overlapping pH and temperature requirements, and a tank kept at a pH of around 7.5 and temperature of 76 – 78 would be fine for either species.

Tank size

Danios tend to swim quickly from one side of the tank to the other, spending energy practically all the time. With this, it is essential to provide plenty of space. Additionally, there is also the size of the Angelfish. Thus, the size of ta community aquarium with these two species should be between medium and large, with a minimum capacity of around 75 gallons of water.

Cleaning

It is recommended to use filtering equipment in the aquarium to keep the water quality always good. The more fish that live in the same space, the more attention is needed in the matter of cleaning.

It is also recommended periodical change of the water to avoid ammonia and nitrite accumulation. However, do not completely replace the liquid. The ideal is to change at most 25% of the water so it would not cause a thermal shock to the animals.

Ideal Number of Danios and Angelfish

As discussed above, Danios are shoaling fish and do best when kept in a school. They will travel around the tank together and will spend their energy. When kept in schools, their potential aggression will be defused among the multiple members of the school, keeping any single fish from being picked upon too much.

Danios tend to get stressed out when kept alone and this stress could result in aggression towards the other tank inhabitants. When stressed, there is a tendency to nip at the fins of other fish, especially fish with big flowing fins, such as Angelfish.

Angelfish, on the other hand, are quite territorial within their own species. Unless your Angelfish are paired off as a breeding pair, or you have a huge aquarium, it is recommended to keep only a single Angelfish in your tank. If you are an advanced aquarist you can try to keep a pair of juvenile Angelfish and see if you have success in getting them to pair off and not harass one another.

Will Danios eat Angelfish eggs?

Yes, it is very likely the Danios will eat the Angelfish eggs. Danios eat even their own eggs. For this reason, if you are considering breeding your Angelfish, think about setting a breeding tank up.

Conclusion 

In this post, we learnt about the relationship between Angelfish and Danios. We also discussed their biology and tank requirements.  

If you have any thoughts or doubts, feel free to drop us in a comment below!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Angelfish and Danios

What are the ideal pH levels for Danios?

The pH levels in Danio tanks can range from 6.5 (slightly acidic) to 8 (very basic). 

Can you put Zebra Danios with Angelfish?

Yes, these fish are great tank mates. They can live peacefully without major issues. They do well in similar water parameters and would feel comfortable.

How many Angelfish should be kept together?

Although Angelfish are not schooling fish, they enjoy being in the company of conspecifics. For this reason, consider having at least 4 Angelfish. However, tank size is the limiting factor. Thus, consider having at least 15-gallon of space per Angelfish individual.

How can we feed the Angelfish and the Danios?

Both are omnivorous fish species. In nature, they usually search for small crustaceans, insect larvae, and worms. These fish can be fed on dry food as well as on live prey and also some vegetables. On average, two or three servings per day are recommended, in an amount that can be consumed in up to 5 minutes.

What is the life expectancy of Danios?

A healthy Danio fish lives around 3 to 5 years. The closer to the conditions of its natural habitat, the longer the goldfish will live.

Are Danios fin nippers?

No, Danios are usually no fin nippers. However, if they are extremely stressed, these fish may begin to nip at other fish fins.

Do Danios protect their eggs?

No, Danios do not protect their eggs or their offspring. They can even eat their eggs.

References 

Are Danios And ANglefish Compatible Tank Mates? https://explorefishworld.com/are-danios-and-angelfish-compatible-tank-mates/

Can Zebra Danios Live with Angelfish? https://aqualifehub.com/can-zebra-danios-live-with-angelfish/

Robins, C.R., R.M. Bailey, C.E. Bond, J.R. Brooker, E.A. Lachner, R.N. Lea and W.B. Scott, 1991. World fishes important to North Americans. Exclusive of species from the continental waters of the United States and Canada. Am. Fish. Soc. Spec. Publ. (21):243 p.

Talwar, P.K. and A.G. Jhingran, 1991. Inland fishes of India and adjacent countries. vol 1. A.A. Balkema, Rotterdam. 541 p.