We have already shared an in-depth article about how Angelfish are adapted to freshwater on ‘Are angelfish freshwater.’ Now you might wonder, ‘How long do freshwater angelfish live.’
If this is the case, stick with this article. As an Angelfish owner, one important question that you might have is ‘How long do freshwater angelfish live’ and ‘What you can do for their longevity.’ In this article, I will help you explore the factors that affect their lifespan and the average lifespan of different Angelfish varieties.
I will also provide some tips that can help you extend your Angelfish lifespan while discussing the expectation for different age groups. We will further address common health issues & conclude with key takeaways for providing optimal care to your Angelfish. But before all this, let’s begin with knowing ‘how long do freshwater angelfish live?’.
How Long Do Freshwater Angelfish Live?
The average lifespan of freshwater angelfish ranges between 8 to 10 years. However, it’s important to note that individual variations exist within this range. Genetics, breeding, and the overall care they receive significantly influence their lifespan. Also, you should note that the lifespan of Angelfish can vary depending on their age group.
Juvenile Freshwater Angelfish
If your Angelfish is in the Juvenile stage, it might undergo significant growth & development. On average, Angelfish are known to reach sexual maturity between 6 to 12 months of age, depending upon their genetics, diet, and environmental condition.
You must provide them with optimal nutrition, water quality, and stress-free surroundings to positively impact their growth rate and overall health. Their lifespan will be severely affected if they are kept in poor water conditions or have any genetic default.
Adult Freshwater Angelfish
Once Angelfish reach adulthood and become sexually mature, their lifespan can extend. Generally, we have seen healthy adult fish living up to 8 to 10 years, or even longer, if you provide them with proper care & suitable environment.
It is necessary to give them balanced nutrition because Angelfish are omnivorous and thrive on varied diets. Also, consider decorating the tank to mimic their natural habitat to minimize stress factors, contributing to their longevity.
Comparison with Other Fish Species
If you compare the lifespan of freshwater angelfish with other fish species, you will find them falling within the mid to longer lifespan range. If you notice fishes like guppies, you will find them living only for around 2-3 years, whereas goldfish are known to live up to 15 years or even longer with proper care.
Therefore, you should also consider these differences if you choose a fish companion for yourself, your family, or your angelfish tank. If you are looking for a tankmate for your Angelfish, consider avoiding ‘bad tankmates for angelfish’ & go with the ‘best tankmates for angelfish.’
Variations in Lifespan among Different Varieties of Angelfish
It is not uncommon to notice variations in lifespan among different varieties of Angelfish. As you might already know, freshwater angelfish comes in various varieties and colors, each with unique characteristics and traits.
Although the average life span remains relatively consistent, some variation may vocationally occur. For instance, if you notice veil-tail angelfish anatomy, you will find they have flowing fins with a slightly shorter lifespan compared to other common angelfish varieties. However, this specific lifespan difference between different angelfish varieties needs to be better documented and can vary case-by-case.
5 Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Freshwater Angelfish
Many factors may influence the lifespan of Angelfish, including genetics, breeding, water quality, diet, nutrition, disease, and stress. Let’s go with understanding each one by one.
Genetics & Breeding
If you look at the genetic background of Angelfish, you will find them playing a crucial role in determining their lifespan as well. Since many Aquarists perform selective breeding for desirable traits like color variations and fin shapes, it can affect Angelfish’s overall health & longevity. Therefore, I recommend getting your Angelfish from a retail breeder or supplier to ensure good genetic stock.
Water Quality & Environment
You must provide good water quality and an environment to keep Angelfish. Maintaining a clean & stable environment is very important for your Angelfish well-being and longevity.
Pay attention to the water parameters, including pH level between 6.5-7.5 and temperature around 72-82° F, which must be maintained yearly. I hope you have provided an appropriate tank size & adequate filtration with regular water changes that contribute to a healthy environment for your Angelfish. Also, consider reading my posts on: Angelfish Water Temperature & Ideal PH For Angelfish.
Diet & Nutrition
Like other aquarium inhabitants, Angelfish also need a well-balanced diet to thrive. You should note that your diet should always contain high-quality flakes & pellets specifically formulated for Angelfish.
Also, supplement their diet with frozen live foods like brine shrimp, bloodworms, or occasionally daphnia. Providing a varied diet rich in nutrients will promote your fish’s overall health & longevity. Plus, Angelfish are known to be omnivorous and need a varied diet to fulfill their nutritional requirement.
Disease & Stress
Just like any other living creature or organism, Angelfish are also susceptible to stress & diseases. You must follow up on a proper quarantine procedure for newly adopted fish. Also, regular observation & timely treatment is required to address any health issue as soon as possible.
You must avoid making sudden changes in the tank environment or introducing compatible tank mates that may put your Angelfish under stress, posing a threat to their overall well-being.
Tankmates & Plants
Depending upon the type of plant you have, your angelfish behavior may get influenced. It will help if you avoid plants that are not compatible with Angelfish. It is best to always go with plants like Java ferns.
Plants will provide not only an aesthetic look & hiding spot, shelter, and a physical barrier to your fish. In addition, make sure always to choose the best tank mate for Angelfish, as bad ones can cause stress, aggression, & conflicts which might ultimately affect their longevity.To avoid bad ones, check my post on:7 Bad Tank Mates For Angelfish.
3 Additional Tips for Enhancing Lifespan
- Do regular partial water changes to maintain optimal water quality inside your aquarium. This also further removes accumulated toxins that might hamper your angelfish longevity.
- It is important that you not overcrowd the tank that may cause stress & increased competition for resources, ultimately leading to a decreased lifespan of Angelfish.
- Since Angelfish are intelligent creatures, consider adding objects like floating plants, mirrors, and PVC pipe to stimulate the natural foraging behavior & exploration to provide mental enrichment.
3 Common Health Issues & Their Impact on Lifespan
Even though Angelfish is considered to be relatively harder, they can still be susceptible to various health issues. To know more about their hardiness, consider reading our recent article on ‘Are Angelfish Hardy. Below, I will mention three health issues that can severely impact your Angelfish lifespan; therefore, I may be sure to address these issues promptly.
External Parasites
Yes, external parasites like (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis) & flukes (Monogenea) are known to attach themselves to the skin & fins of Angelfish. It will not only attach to your angelfish skin & fins but also cause irritation, loss of appetite, and even death if left & treated.
First, follow up a quarantine procedure once you notice your fish suffering from any external parasites. After that, regular observation & appropriate treatment with medication formulated for parasite removal. To know more, I will advise you to visit your veterinarian or consult an experienced Aquarist.
Bacterial & Fungal Infections
If you keep your fish in poor-quality water, they will soon catch bacterial & fungal infections causing injuries & unwanted stress. If you notice any symptoms like fin rot, ulcers, or white patches on the body of an Angelfish, you need to get it checked by a veterinarian & get treatment promptly.
Timely treatment with appropriate medication is necessary to ensure the longevity of your Angelfish. Also, make sure to improve the water quality & stress-free environment for managing & preventing such infections.
Internal Parasites
Talking about the internal parasite, worms have been significantly noticed, affecting the digestive system of our little friend. If you notice an Angelfish Suffering from symptoms like weight loss or sudden bloating with abnormal behavior, you need to get it checked by the nearest veterinarian.
They will administer some medication especially designed to treat such internal parasites. However, you also need to do things like improving water quality and providing a balanced diet to help eliminate this kind of parasite and improve your Angelfish lifespan.
Conclusion
This article has given you an in-depth understanding of the lifespan of freshwater angelfish. If yes, consider sharing it. Now, you know that Angelfish can all live up to 8-10 years & a few necessary steps can enhance longevity if provided.
Therefore, I advise you to provide your fish with a suitable environment and a balanced diet and minimize stress factors to ensure your fish live a healthy & fulfilling life. Also, pay attention to regular observation and prompt treatment of health issues to maximize your fish’s lifespan.
Suppose you need to follow the proper care guidelines mentioned in this article or recommended by professionals. In that case, your fish may suffer from health issues in the future that might affect their longevity.
Remember that each Angelfish tends to be unique, and individual care & attention are vital to ensure their well-being. Ensure you provide the care your beautiful fish deserve, and enjoy their presence in your aquarium for many years to come.
I have given my best to give you all the knowledge on the question: how long do freshwater Angelfish Live’. If you find the article helpful, then consider sharing it.
Your share will help many people learn about the essential factor affecting the longevity of Angelfish as well as ‘how long freshwater angelfish can Live.’ Do check my other helpful guide on angelfish care & management. See you in the next post, till then, take care & goodbye.
