Compatibility Overview
African Butterfly Fish and Flame Angelfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
| Factor | African Butterfly Fish | Flame Angelfish | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 72–79°F | 75–81°F | ✅ 75–79°F |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 | 8.0–8.3 | ❌ No overlap |
| Temperament | semi | semi | ⚠️ Monitor |
| Adult Size | 2.4 in | 2.8 in | ✅ Similar |
| Min. Group | 1+ | 1+ | See below |
| Min. Tank Size | 29 gallons (for both species) | — | |
✅ Compatibility Positives
❌ Incompatibility Reasons
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
Flame Angelfish — Aquarium species
The Flame Angelfish is a popular choice for saltwater aquariums due to its vibrant coloration and peaceful nature. It requires a spacious tank with plenty of swimming space and a stable water environment. With proper care, it can thrive in a community tank with compatible species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can African Butterfly Fish live with Flame Angelfish?
Generally not recommended. African Butterfly Fish and Flame Angelfish are generally not recommended to be housed together. The issues listed above — whether water parameter incompatibility, predation risk, or aggression — create conditions where one or both fish are likely to suffer harm or chronic stress.
What tank size do I need for African Butterfly Fish and Flame Angelfish together?
A minimum of 29 gallons is recommended for keeping African Butterfly Fish and Flame Angelfish together. A larger tank improves water stability and reduces territorial conflict.
What temperature suits both African Butterfly Fish and Flame Angelfish?
75–79°F
Is a African Butterfly Fish aggressive toward a Flame Angelfish?
African Butterfly Fish is semi and Flame Angelfish is semi. These animals require different water types and cannot share one aquarium.
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 | 67/100 |
| Ph | 0/100 |
| Temperament | 62/100 |
| Adult Size | 100/100 |
| 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 | 29 gal | Only for the recommended minimum groups, mature filtration, and close monitoring. |
| Recommended community | 40 gal | Adds territory, swimming room, and a safer buffer for behavior. |
| Low-conflict setup | 55 gal | Best when keeping larger schools or reducing territorial pressure. |