In this post, we will learn about the relationship between Angelfish and Killifish. We will also discuss their biology, requirements, and if they can live together in the aquarium.
Angelfish and Killifish
Most of the Killifish species are peaceful. Thus, in general, they can be kept with Angelfish. It is recommended to have only one pair of each species to keep a nice and healthy community environment.
All about Killifish
Depicted from the M’Passa river in the upper Ogooué basin in southeastern Gabon. Their current known range extends from this region to the north and centre of the Republic of Congo.
They are usually found in small streams amidst large aquatic and riparian vegetation.
Killifish are found in permanent water bodies in nature. More than 20 different specimens have been discovered in different locations and given specific generic names.
The aquarium should have dense areas of live plants and other decorations that can serve as a refuge. Leave the aquarium well covered, these species tend to jump out.
Tank conditions are temperature ranging from 72 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and pH levels varying according to each different species.
How do Killifish act?
In general, they display peaceful behaviour, except males who are more aggressive and territorial towards each other.
They can be kept in a community aquarium as long as the other fish are carefully chosen, preferably small and peaceful fish that support cooler waters.
Killifish reproduction
They are oviparous fish. Their eggs hatch within two to three weeks. These fish usually reach sexual maturity between five and seven months of age.
Males are more colourful, have longer fins and a straight belly. The female is smaller with a plump belly, paler colours, and shorter fins.
What do Killifish eat?
They are omnivores, in their natural environment, they feed on worms, crustaceans, and insects.
In captivity, they will accept dry and live food without difficulties. Provide live food regularly, such as brine shrimp, daphnia, etchingae, and mosquito larvae.
Killifish best tank mates
Killifish are generally peaceful. Except for the males that fight for hierarchy and dominance, the females can be kept together. Some of the Killifish tank mates are:
Guppy
Guppies are awesome fish. They come in various colours and shapes. They also have a complex behavioural response. Males dispute for females to breed. They can breed very fast and overpopulate your tank. They only grow up to 1.5 inches and are very peaceful.
Tetras
Tetras and Killifish make extraordinary tank mates. They grow up to 4 inches, depending on the species and are very peaceful fish. There are several tetra species. Here are the ones that best get along with Killifish:
– Neon tetra;
– Cardinal tetra;
– Black Skirt tetra;
– Diamond tetra.
Dwarf Cichlids
Dwarf Cichlids refers to several Cichlids species, such as Apistogramma and Kribensis. They are, in general, semi-aggressive and territorial fish. They typically become more aggressive during the breeding season and when threatened. They grow a maximum of 4 inches and, since there is plenty of room, they will not bother the Killifish for anything.
Corydoras
Corydoras are very friendly and peaceful catfish. Killifish usually get along with Corydoras very easily. They grow only up to 3 inches and are good tankmates to almost any other peaceful fish species.
All about Angelfish
Angelfish are semi-aggressive cichlids with triangular-shaped bodies and long fins. They are originally from South America, more precisely from the Amazon River basin. Popular with aquarists for their unique appearance.
Angelfish grow up to 6 inches in length. The triangular shape of these fish allows them to camouflage with aquatic plants. Also, the dark vertical stripes that they have served to better camouflage themselves with the surroundings.
How do Angelfish act?
They are territorial fish, so they tend to attack other fish that enter their territory. Although, they are peaceful fish most of the time.
Where do Angelfish live?
They are native to the Amazon River basin and are also found in the rivers that flow into it. They live in clean water and prefer temperatures between 72 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit.
What do Angelfish eat?
They are omnivores and in their natural environment, they feed on small invertebrate fish and water nutrients.
Predators
Angelfish have many predators, most of them large. They are prey to larger fish, birds, and marine mammals.
Reproduction
Freshwater Angelfish generate between 100 and 1,000 eggs that hatch in a few days. Eggs are laid on a flat sheet or underwater trunk. The juvenile is known as fingerling, remains attached to eggs for seven days and feeds on the rest of the yolk. After another week, it is ready to swim freely. At this stage, it will feed on the nutrients available in water and plants.
How to make this combination work
Angelfish and most of the Killifish species can make great combinations and live very well together in community tanks. However, there are a few recommendations to follow to make this combination successful.
– Temperatures should be around 74-75 degrees Fahrenheit;
– pH levels should match the two considered species;
– Consider introducing them while the Angelfish is young. Adult individuals tend to be more territorial and aggressive;
– Try mutually suitable tank mates for the community;
– Opt for peaceful Killifish species.
Conclusion
In this post, we learnt about the relationship between Angelfish and Killifish. We also discussed their biology, requirements, and if they can live together in the aquarium.
If you have any thoughts or doubts, feel free to drop us in a comment below!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Angelfish and Killifish
Can Killifish live with Angelfish?
Yes, most of the Killifish species are peaceful and get along very well with Angelfish. It is important to consider the species typical behaviours when considering a community tank.
What can live with Killifish?
Several species can live with Killifish. These are peaceful rams, gouramis, cichlids, larger tetras and many Corydoras. Killifish are also snails and large peaceful crustaceans safe.
What do Angelfish like in their tank?
Angelfish will feed at the top or mid-layers of the tank. However, in the wild, they usually feed on the bottom searching for worms and tiny crustaceans. They are omnivorous and can be offered industrialized flakes and pellets.
Do Killifish fin nip?
In general, Killifish species do not nip at other fish fins. However, some of them may begin to nip the fins of some fish, such as guppies or Siamese fighters.
Is it easy to breed Killifish?
Yes, Killifish species are, in general, somewhat easy to breed in tanks. However, some specific conditions must be provided for them.
References
Huber, J.H., 1996. Killi-Data 1996. Updated checklist of taxonomic names, collecting localities and bibliographic references of oviparous Cyprinodont fishes (Atherinomorpha, Pisces). Société Française d’Ichtyologie, Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
Wildekamp, R.H., R. Romand and J.J. Scheel, 1986. Cyprinodontidae. P. 165-276. In J. Daget, J.-P. Gosse and D.F.E. Thys van den Audenaerde (eds.) Checklist of the freshwater fishes of Africa (CLOFFA). ISNB, Brussels, MRAC; Tervuren; and ORSTOM, Paris. Vol. 2.
