How to Destress Angelfish

Fading colors or lethargy in freshwater angelfish may be signs of stress. Fish do have feelings and constant stress is not only unpleasant for them but can lead to physical problems, notably infections. To de-stress your fish, or to ensure they don̵7;t get stressed in the first place, provide a suitable habitat with plenty of hiding and resting places. Angelfish also need companions of the same species because they are social animals, forming close bonds with their partners.

Things You'll Need

  • 30-gallon or larger tank with light, heater, filter and gravel
  • Thick paper
  • Scissors
  • Masking tape
  • Floating aquatic plants
  • Submerged aquatic plant
  • Aquarium ̶0;cave̶1;
  • Live food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Estimate the lengths of all the fish you have, not just the angelfish. Add the lengths together and divide by the number of gallons your tank holds. If you have more than one inch of fish per gallon of water, your tank is overcrowded. Prepare another, larger tank and gradually move your fish over once it has cycled. Alternatively, find new homes for some of the fish. If the tank does not hold at least 30 gallons, you need another tank. Angelfish need space to swim.

    • 2

      Transfer any aggressive fish to another tank or give them away. If you notice other fish nipping the angelfish or chasing them away at feeding time, remove the bullies. Angelfish are mostly peaceful and may become a target for feistier species.

    • 3

      Reduce the brightness of aquarium lights to a level that is dimmer but still supports plant growth. Overly bright lighting can be stressful to angelfish, making them feel exposed. Keep the lights on for about 12 hours a day, not longer.

    • 4

      Cut four large sheets of thick paper to fit the sides of your aquarium, if it is in a room with bright artificial lighting. Use masking tape to secure the sheets to the sides of the tank when you turn the aquarium lights off each night and remove the sheets in the morning. Alternatively, cover the tank with a sheet. This mimics a natural day-night cycle.

    • 5

      Introduce more floating and submerged aquatic plants to the tank. They create a natural habitat and provide hiding places.

    • 6

      Add an aquarium cave or arrange rocks to form a hiding place for the angelfish to take refuge when startled.

    • 7

      Provide live food, such as daphnia, once or twice a week. Live food lets the angelfish exhibit natural behavior as well as providing extra nutrients.