The quiet elegance of a well-arranged fresh water tank can be enjoyed best when lively inhabitants moving through the water can be seen moving, like winds blowing over mountains or clouds floating upward in springtime.
The sight of these colorful creatures in their aquatic ballet is almost a form of therapy in itself. It’s no wonder that many people dream about starting their own haven under the waves.
But if you, like I did when I first entered the aquarium scene, find the bewildering variety of choices for fish that might be bewildering, then rest assured that this book is aimed at you. I’m here to lend a helping hand to those who tread along this path of peace and harmony with freshwater fish in their varying forms and colours.
Lets take a look at the top 10 beginner’s freshwater fish and create an underwater paradise of enchanting images that makes ownership a pleasure rather than pain.
Each fish has its own individual character and needs, which makes the journey all the more interesting. So put on a pot of your favorite brew, and together, let us flow down this stream.
Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta splendens): Known as “the gateway fish” by many scores of chroniclers of aquatic history, Bettas make a grand entry with their brilliant colors and larger fins. But don’t be deceived by their gladiator airs; they’re fairly simple to look after. Simply give them a spacious tank (minimum 5 gallons) with a soft filter, and you’ll be smiling at their earnest antics before long. Only word to the wise: It’s better if they rule their underwater kingdom alone.
Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi): These little guys are living jewels, each with an iridescent blue body and tail so red that it lights up any aquarium. Being peaceful and schooling fish, when they are kept in groups of six or more, they move as one. It’s like a mesmerizing, synchronized swim show! Planted tanks are the preference of Neon Tetras. Here, with plenty to dart in and out of plants surrounded by water lilies all around them in bloom, is no exception. And they’re known for being hardy, making them excellent candidates for beginners.
Guppies (Poecilia reticulata): The guppies . . . What a kaleidoscope of colors and life! Guppies breed easily and come in all colors of the rainbow, with different tail shapes to show for it. Plus, they’re sturdy and adaptable enough that beginners are safe with them. In addition, their disposition allows them to enjoy a wide range of tankmates. But be prepared for baby guppies. Unless you plan on keeping only girls or boys in your tank, you’ll quickly find yourself overwhelmed by tiny fry.
Mollies (Poecilia sphenops): In any aquarium, Mollies add a touch of class. They are peaceful and adaptable, and they do well in community tanks. Mollies also live young, so like guppies, you will be able to witness the miracle of life. Just a pinch of salt in their water, which is called “brackish,” is something that mollies enjoy. They can also survive in fresh water.
Zebra Danios (Danio rerio): Looking for vigorous, hardy fish to get your tank off the ground? Zebra Danios are a splendid choice. It’s a joy almost without end watching their darting about and jumping under the surface. They’re also very resilient, capable of functioning in a wide variety of water conditions, making them just the right company for those who haven’t yet learned to keep aquarium parameters stable.
Swordtails (Xiphophorus hellerii): With their unique sword-like tails, these fish are always a lively addition to any community tank. Swordtails are tough as nails, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They are livebearers, similar to guppies and mollies, and so if you put males and females together soon, you may well have your tank humming with tiny swordtails. Available in a range of colors, they are relatively peaceful by nature and make fine tank companions for many other species of fish.
Corydoras Catfish (Corydoras spp.): These endearing bottom-dwellers are the janitorial staff of any aquarium. Corydoras, or “Corys,” as they are affectionately called, are peaceful, hardy, and mix easily with just about everything. These creatures prefer to live in shoals; therefore, it is best to keep them together with a few companions of their kind in order to get the best results, making sure that they grow up feeling secure and so can act as nature intended. Watching a group of Corys swim at the bottom of your aquarium, picking up food, is not only amusing. It also adds a dynamic element to your aquatic environment.
Platies (Xiphophorus maculatus): Platies are another colorful and lively addition to the beginner’s aquarium. They’re extremely simple to take care of, peaceful, and can withstand a variety of water types. Also, platies are live-bearing fish and come in many colors and pattern variations, which will let you have an interesting or downright beautiful tank. They are very social fish that will live well with others in a community tank, as long as the others aren’t aggressive species either.
Cherry Barbs (Puntius titteya): Cherry Barbs are a very peaceful species, and a hardy one at that. They bring to any aquarium a touch of elegance and vividness that is quite appealing. Their red coloration is especially noteworthy, becoming more intense in planted aquariums. Cherry barbs are schooling fish that best thrive in groups. They will exhibit their natural schooling behavior only in such group settings. For the beginning aquarist seeking an addition to his or her system that will add color and perhaps some movement without posing special care requirements, Cherry Barb may be just perfect.
Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare): Last but not least, angelfish make a majestic addition to any aquarium. With their graceful fins and variability of color patterns, they’re often the center piece of a tank. While they do require a bit more care and a bigger tank than some of the other fish on my list here, the beauty and personality that angelfish display make all of your extra effort worthwhile. One important point to remember, however, is that angelfish can grow quite large and become territorial, so they are best kept with fish that won’t eat their fins in a tank that gives them plenty of room to expand.
Every one of those species has its unique qualities for the starter aquarium owner, from simplicity of care to simply sitting back and enjoying them thrive in their watery home.
A beginner-friendly fish, it may prove both enriching and rewarding to start with any of them. But do keep in mind that the success of your aquarium depends not only on which fish you choose but also on regular maintenance, checking water conditions, and feeding a balanced diet to your aquatic pets.
One can always tell contentedly nodding fish from those who are waiting to be fed, so trust me, this last year of raising a pint-sized aquarium has been an experience.
But the journey you’re on doesn’t stop when you select those first Aqua-Pets. It takes time, research, and understanding of the needs of your aquatic pets to build a thriving aquarium environment. Or the nitrogen cycle and subtle points on our little swimmer’s diet right down through environmental needs are all part of bringing an aquarium into harmony.
The internet, fish-keeping books, and local aquarium clubs are invaluable sources of help and information along the way. They can ease your path through the highs and lows you’ll encounter in tackling all aspects (but particularly maintenance) of aquarium operation.
In summary, getting beginner-friendly fish to begin your freshwater aquarium journey is merely the start of an immensely fulfilling and educational experience.
Watching your fish drift through the water with calmness, the many new behaviors you want to see, or that sense of accomplishment when a balanced ecosystem has been created—discovering all of these is a source of wonder in fishkeeping. Ride out this journey with a willing heart and an open mind, and you’ll find that there is not only entertainment but also a gateway into the sea world.
As I reflect upon my journey, from the excitement of setting up my first tank to ongoing adventures in aquatic education, I’m reminded of what has become a hobby rich in myriad possibilities. The relationship with nature, how one is part of this great family (of which fishkeepers are an important faction), and the continuous learning process make fishkeeping a truly unique activity that never grows dull. So, to all new fishkeepers, welcome to the amazing world of fishkeeping.
May your tanks flourish, your fish be happy, and your healthy animal has in turn entered its aquatic world with joy and wonder.
