More Angelfish?

Question
Hi, Nicole,

I have a 30gallon tank (as you probably know from my last questions) and I have 2 gouramis 2 angelfish, four corys(the Albino died) and an oto. Anyway, I was wondering if a 30 gallon tank is too small to get two  more angelfish?

Thanks,

Bekah

Answer
Hi Bekah,

Sure, I remember you! Unfortunately, your tank is a bit too small for another pair of angelfish. I would not add more angelfish to this tank as they will grow large and (since they are cichlids, after all) will become more territorial as they get older, especially if you have a male and female and they decide to pair up. Sexing angelfish is nearly impossible, but when/if they do pair up, you'll know!

If you are interested in filling out your tank a bit more, look for robust tetras such as black skirt tetras or pristella (aka x-ray) tetras. Then there are smaller fish such as black neon or bloodfin tetras - these like to be kept in a group of about half a dozen, give or take. Some other hardy fish that mix well with angels are rasboras, such as brilliant rasboras or harlequin rasboras. You'll probably see any one of these fish at a pet store or local fish store, so just get your mind set on one and then do a little research before purchase - this always helps! Tetras like neons are too small and will probably get eaten, besides being delicate...cardinal tetras look similar but a bit bigger, however they are delicate too, so I wouldn't risk buying them. There are lots of hardy, attractive fish, many of which get along with angelfish, so if you see fish you are interested in at the pet store, start Googling! Then if you have additional questions, feel free to ask me or any expert here.

I hope that helps, take care.
Nicole