Compatibility Overview
African Butterfly Fish and Angelfish can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 55-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
| Factor | African Butterfly Fish | Angelfish | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 74–84°F | ✅ 74–79°F |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 | 6.0–7.5 | ✅ 6.0–7.5 |
| Temperament | semi | semi | ⚠️ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 2.4 in | 6 in | ⚠️ 2.5× difference |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 55 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
⚠️ Caution Points
Species Profiles
African Butterfly Fish — Aquarium species
The African Butterfly Fish is a popular freshwater species known for its striking appearance and peaceful demeanor. It requires a well-maintained tank with plenty of swimming space and hiding spots. With a moderate activity level, it is suitable for beginners and can be kept in a community tank with compatible species. Regular water changes and a balanced di
→ Full African Butterfly Fish care guide
Angelfish — Pterophyllum scalare
Elegant South American cichlids with long flowing fins. Generally peaceful but territorial when breeding and will eat very small fish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can African Butterfly Fish live with Angelfish?
Yes, in a well-planned setup. African Butterfly Fish and Angelfish can generally share an aquarium with appropriate planning. Both species prefer overlapping temperature and pH ranges, and neither poses a major aggression risk to the other. A minimum 55-gallon tank is recommended to provide adequate territory and water volume for both species.
What tank size do I need for African Butterfly Fish and Angelfish together?
A minimum of 55 gallons is recommended for keeping African Butterfly Fish and Angelfish together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both African Butterfly Fish and Angelfish?
74–79°F
Is a African Butterfly Fish aggressive toward a Angelfish?
African Butterfly Fish is semi and Angelfish is semi. No major aggression issues are expected between these species.
Related Compatibility Guides
Compatibility score breakdown
The overall score is weighted across water chemistry, behavior, adult size, swimming zone, and social needs. A score is a planning aid—not a guarantee for individual fish.
| Factor | Score |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 71/100 |
| Ph | 100/100 |
| Temperament | 62/100 |
| Adult Size | 72/100 |
| Swim Zone | 92/100 |
| Social Needs | 92/100 |
Tank size scenarios
Use the scenario that matches the actual group sizes and temperament you plan to keep.
| Scenario | Tank | When it applies |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum viable | 55 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 75 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 100 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |