Zella's Angelfish Paradise

Angelfish is one of my favorites, beside discus, fancy guppies, and plecos. I think corydoras are also important to have for the bottom of the tank, especially if you don't have a pleco. They are not very aggressive. Pleco is real nice to have ... if you have a bigger tank from 55 gallons and up (it needs more room to roam) with a driftwood that it seems to require as a part of its diet.

Angelfish are very peaceful and easy to take care of as long as you keep their home clean and free from any disease. They don't like very bright light and can easily be startled, especially when you turn its light on in the morning. They feel more comfortable in a soft and tea color water. That's their natural environment.

If possible, get live plants, but if you are inexperienced like me, get some information about them before attempting to plant them into the tank. They can be pretty messy or rot easily if you don't know how to take care of them. I used artifical plants for now. I don't believe in adding a castle, mermaid, or any fake stuff into my tank. I prefer the natural look. It enhances the beauty that it brings out and the relaxing feeling it can give you and the secure feeling for the fish in it, especially with the plants.

Try not to be tempted to buy a small tank such as 1, 2, 5, and even 10 gallons to start with. A 20 gallon tank is sufficient, but be careful not to buy too many fish at once and also, make sure they can get along with each others without any problem. I would suggest that you browse around on net for more information or read a book about them.

Any time you buy a new fish, always put it in like a 10 gallon tank to make sure it doesn't have any disease before you add it to a community tank. I have a 10 gallon tank that I use as a hospital tank for that purpose. If new fish has disease and is in a main tank, it can kill ALL fish in a short time. Some fish, such as Discus, are very sensitive. Get more information about fish you would like to have before you buy, especially how big they will get and what kind of water they can live in (soft or hard). Water test kits are very important to have, so don't go without them at all...or it will be a big disaster for the fish if things go wrong, especially ammonia which is very lethal to fish. Proper temperature, clean water, good oxygen, and a balanced diet will ensure healthy fish.

Plants (live or fake) are a necessity. They make them feel more secure and at home. Also, some fish require a hidden place such as a cave.

Good luck!