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Origins
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Scientists believe there are more than 100 different species of angelfish. Due to unrecorded interbreeding by fish sellers in the 1920s and 1930s, it is impossible to tell how many different types of the fish exist.
Despite the immeasurable variations of angelfish, they can be categorized based on their locations. Freshwater angelfish inhabit the rivers of South America, while marine angelfish call the salty ocean waters their home.
Mating
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Marine and freshwater angelfish have different lifestyle patterns, which include their mating and birthing behaviors. Freshwater angelfish are monogamous for life, even if their partner dies. In contrast, a male angelfish leads and impregnates a group of females in the marine ecosystem.
Marine females lay their eggs in the open water, where they usually attach to floating plankton. Their eggs are often eaten by small fish and other oceanic creatures that feed on the plankton. Freshwater females are more cautious with their eggs. They find places of protection to lay them, such as underwater logs or flat leaves.
Survival
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The easiest way to distinguish between the two categories is by their appearance. Marine angelfish are larger (up to 12 inches in length) and more brightly colored than freshwater angelfish. Freshwater angelfish only grow to be a few inches long and have dark vertical stripes to blend in with plants and avoid dangers.
Both types of angelfish are preyed upon by birds, marine mammals and larger fish.
Invertebrates and small fish provide nourishment for the freshwater angelfish. Marine fish feed on algae, small fish and crustaceans (e.g., shrimp).
Aquarium Life
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Marine angelfish are considered a threatened species due to the destruction of coral reefs worldwide. Fortunately, freshwater angelfish are neither endangered nor threatened and still remain popular aquarium pets.
If you are considering adding an angelfish to your aquarium, keep in mind that they are sensitive to changes in salt, temperature and acid levels in their water. Angelfish prefer a pH level between 6.5 and 7.2 and a temperature that mimics their native South American environment.
Angelfish are not recommended for beginners as they can be difficult to care for, though expanding your knowledge about the fish's requirements will help ensure that your fish will thrive in an aquarium environment.
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10 Facts on Angelfish
According to a survey by the American Pet Products Association, more than 14 million households claim fish as pets. There are hundreds of different types of fish you can buy for your aquarium, but few offer as much diversity as the angelfish. It is helpful to have some basic information about angelfish before you decide if it is the right fish for you.