I'm currently based in Singapore (a tropical country), so maintaining the appropriate temperature on a regular basis isn't really going to be much of an issue. However, I understand that angelfish are supposed to be less resistant to disease than most other cichlids due to rampant inbreeding practiced within the trade. Would this make it difficult for me to keep one in an outdoor pond (albeit a pond that is equipped with a filter and oxygen pump ). If angelfish are indeed too fragile to keep in an outdoor pond, are there other alternative cichlid species that I could try my luck with? Thanks in advance
Can I keep an angelfish in my small outdoor pond
- Thread starter brown_snake
- Start date
Captive bred angelfish are fairly hardy from my personal experience. Never known them to be especially sensitive/prone to diseases. As long as water quality is good, I don't see any reason why they wouldn't thrive in a pond.
However, I don't see angelfish being a good candidate for a pond since you really can't see their natural beauty from above the waters surface.
However, I don't see angelfish being a good candidate for a pond since you really can't see their natural beauty from above the waters surface.
You've raised a valid point. Would you be able to recommend an alternative cichlid species that's not too different in terms of general temperament and hardiness? Thanks
Cichlids are just not good for "above viewing" since they are designed this way to elude predators like mammals and birds. The only fish good from this vantage point are kois, which have been bred for this specific purpose. However, in a small enclosure heat will be an issue for kois
If your pond is big enough, how about my personal favorite, a white giant gourami?
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Thanks for the recommendation, I really appreciate it. Do giant gouramis require a special diet, or will flakes suffice? Again, thanks
You can feed them flakes when they are very small, but should switch to pellets when they are around 4 inches. They eat pretty much everything, but their diet should be mostly plant matter (fruits and vegetables). Giant gouramis grow quite big so know what you're getting into. They are a labrynth fish, meaning they are air breather. They are very personable and will easily take food out of your hand.