In this post, we will learn a little about the relationship between Angelfish and Glofish. In addition, we will also discuss some of their specifications and requirements for an aquarium.
Angelfish and Glofish
In general, Glofish and Angelfish can be set up together in a community tank. Glofish are fluorescent fish of many different species. They can be Tetras, Zebra Danios, Barbs, Betta, and Sharks. These fish are genetically manipulated to get their glowing colours. These different species have different requirements and behaviours. Each of them is the same as their non-fluorescent counterparts in requirements, behaviour, biology, and compatibility.
Glofish
Glofish are freshwater fish individuals genetically modified. They belong to several different species and bring an awesome futuristic look to a community tank. The first Glofish were Zebra Danios and are the most common to be found in stores.
In general, they require low maintenance effort and are known to be hardy fish. Additionally, they are beginner-friendly fish.
Glofish grow similarly to their non-fluorescent relatives. For example, Glofish tetras reach a maximum of 2.5 inches, as they are from small tetra species.
As Glofish follow their non-glowing relatives on characteristics and requirements, we suggest researching for the non-fluorescent fish species within our posts about each of the species for further information on their requirements and biology. Here we will discuss Glofish general characteristics and requirements.
Behaviour
Overall, Glofish are small, active swimmers, and easy-going fish, they are some of the best community fish species.
Glo tetras can chase each other if the tank has limited space. Privation of space and territory can usually cause altered aggressive behaviour, including chasing and fin nipping.
Most of the Glofish are schooling fish. Thus, keeping them alone can also provoke altered behaviours and increase the stress level.
Diet
Similar to the other characteristics, Glofish diet requirements will also follow the non-fluorescent relatives. Although, we will suggest some essential tips for fish feeding.
Do not overfeed the fish. It is important to offer enough food for the fish to eat immediately. If there is any leftover, it is recommended to review the food amount and adjust.
Food scraps can alter water parameters and increase toxic substances levels. For this reason, it is important to offer the proper amount of food. Generally, these fish should be fed twice a day. And flakes or pellets as well as live items such as brine shrimp are good choices.
Glofish care
Temperatures, pH, and hardness are some very specific requirements of each of the fish species. Thus, we suggest the further reading of our articles on the non-fluorescent counterparts.
Additionally, most of the Glofish species are tropical fish. Thus, warmer temperatures may be required. For this reason, we recommend the use of a heater and thermostat to keep temperatures stable and avoid disease vulnerability and stress.
Tank requirements
Most of the Glofish species are schooling fish. Accordingly, they require enough space for a healthy group to thrive. Information on tank configuration, like substrate type, size, filtration system, and other requirements are suggested to be collected from the non-glowing specific species. It is important to collect some information about the Glofish species when buying them.
At first, the Glofish will be stressed out in a new tank. However, after acclimatisation time and ideal conditions, they will feel safe and act more naturally.
It is possible to make general recommendations, like filtration and oxygenation systems and heater and thermostat. These fish will require some attention to keep healthy and happy. Without this equipment, the fish will probably have health issues resulting in death, in drastic conditions.
For lighting, we can suggest some lights that will highlight their fluorescent colours. However, it is suggested to keep lights on for 8-12 hours, as most of these fish are tropical species.
Blue and black lights will bright the Glofish up. In other words, they will look even more fluorescent when using these colours of light.
Tank mates
In general, Glofish are easy-going fish species. They usually get along easily with several other fish species and make awesome additions to a community tank. The most important recommendation we make is to carefully choose the tank mates according to compatibility guides. Consider information about similar natural environments, requirements, etc.
Some helpful points are:
– Always consider the “original” species as the reference;
– Most of the Glofish are schooling fish. Thus, the should be kept in groups (mainly barbs, that can become quite aggressive if kept with less than 5 individuals);
– Consider enough space for the schools and other community fish.
Some examples are:
– Glofish Zebra Danios should be kept with small to medium-sized fish. Otherwise, they could be devoured;
– Glofish Tetras can be kept with all types of non-aggressive fish;
– Glofish Sharks are classified as semi-aggressive towards conspecifics. Thus, it is important to keep only one per tank. However, they can get along with other fish species, like tetras, Danios, and Barbs;
– Glofish Barbs can become aggressive if kept in groups smaller than 5 individuals.
Angelfish
Angelfish are Cichlids with triangular bodies. They have long anal and dorsal fins. They are extremely widespread among aquarists for their look. They usually grow up to 6 inches in length and 10 inches in height. They can live for up to 12 years when in good tank conditions.
Behaviour
They are classified as semi-aggressive fish, which means they are pacific, but can become aggressive under specific circumstances and situations.
Diet
Angelfish are omnivorous fish. Thus, they can eat practically everything that fits their mouth. It is suggested to feed them with protein and fibre-rich items. These nutrients could come from live food and some plant-based supplements.
Tank requirements
Angelfish necessitate amply space to swim around the tank and enough vegetation to hide and swim through. Regarding tank size, it is suggested at least a 29-gallon tank for a pair of Angelfish. For a small school of Angelfish, the suggestion is an 80-gallon tank.
Water temperature should remain between 78 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit and pH levels between 6 to 8.
Tank mates
Angelfish are, in general, peaceful fish. They can make awesome tank mates to much peaceful fish, such as:
– Catfish;
– Tetras;
– Some Gouramis (Honey and Dwarf);
– Some Barbs;
– Danios.
Keep in mind that Angelfish are long-finned fish. Thus, fin nippers are not recommended as Angelfish tank mates. Additionally, the introduction of the fish should be carefully observed.
Can Glofish Live With Angelfish?
In general, Glofish and Angelfish can live in a community tank together. Most of the Glofish species are compatible with Angelfish. Thus, they can be kept under appropriate conditions for both.
Additionally, we recommend our articles about Angelfish relationships with the non-fluorescent counterparts of these fish species.
In addition to the Glofish and the Angelfish, there are some other fish that can also be part of this community. The non-glowing relatives could also become part of the community without issues.
Conclusion
In this post, we learnt a little about the relationship between Angelfish and Glofish. In addition, we also discussed some of their specifications and requirements for an aquarium.
If you have any thoughts or doubts, feel free to drop us in a comment below!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Angelfish and Glofish
What fish can I put with my Glofish?
In general, the Glofish species can be tank mates to several other similar-sized peaceful fish. They can also be tank mates to their non-fluorescent counterparts. Some suitable species include other Tetras, Danios, Rasboras, small Barbs, and other Glofish.
Can Neon Tetra live with Angelfish?
Yes, Neon Tetras can live with Angelfish. They make great tankmates and their requirements range fit together. Thus, ideal conditions for both species could be easily kept in a tank.
Do Angelfish get along with other fish?
Angelfish do get along with many other fish species. However, it is important to keep in mind this fish can become aggressive under specific conditions. Additionally, fin nippers are not recommended. As well as smaller fish species that could be mistaken by prey.
Can Glofish and Goldfish live together?
No, Goldfish are cold-water fish and Glofish are warm-water fish. Although they can match feeding habits and background settings, they do not fit water parameters requirements. Thus, they are not compatible with fish species and should not be kept together.
Will Angelfish eat guppies?
The Angelfish may eat the Guppies. Angelfish can feed on smaller fish species. Thus, they could mistake the Guppies with prey.
How many Angelfish should be kept together?
Angelfish are not schooling fish. Although they prefer living in the company of equals, they feel safer with the company. Thus, it is recommended at least a pair of Angelfish. However, a group of 4-6 individuals is suggested. It is important to keep an eye on them, as they could become too territorial and aggressive towards each other.
References
GloFish Learning Center. https://www.glofish.com/learning-center.aspx
Alderton, D. (2012). Cichlids: Understanding Angelfish, Oscars, Discus, and Others. Fox Chapel Publishing.
Can Glofish Live With Angelfish? https://neeness.com/can-glofish-live-with-angelfish/
Davies, G. (2014). Searching for GloFish®: aesthetics, ethics, and encounters with the neon baroque. Environment and Planning A, 46(11), 2604-2621.
