Cichlid
Angelfish pair up
Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are South American cichlids that form pairs and lay eggs on a flat, vertical surface. Male and female look very similar, so the easiest way to get a pair is to let them choose.
- Get a pair. Raise a group of about six young angelfish together and let a pair form, then give the pair their own tank of 29 gallons or more.
- Offer a vertical surface. Angelfish lay eggs on slate, a spawning cone, a broad leaf or the glass.
- Keep it warm and clean. Around 80 to 82 F with frequent water changes encourages spawning.
- Decide parent or artificial raising. Some pairs raise fry well. Others eat eggs, so many breeders move the slate to a separate container with gentle air.
- Wait for hatching. Eggs usually hatch in about 2 to 3 days. Wrigglers become free swimming about 4 to 5 days later.
- Feed tiny foods. Start with newly hatched baby brine shrimp several times a day.
Be patient: new pairs often eat their first few batches. Many get better at it with time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take angelfish eggs to hatch?
Usually about 2 to 3 days at around 80 F, then about 4 to 5 more days until the fry swim freely.
How do I tell male and female angelfish apart?
It is hard outside of spawning. During spawning the female has a wider, blunt breeding tube and the male a narrow, pointed one.
Why do my angelfish eat their eggs?
Stress, inexperience and disturbance are common causes. Many pairs improve after a few spawns.
What you will need
- Spawning slate or coneA place to lay eggs.Check price on Amazon
- Brine shrimp hatcheryFirst food for fry.Check price on Amazon
- Sponge filterSafe for fry.Check price on Amazon
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