It can be very exciting to assemble your very own freshwater aquarium. However, it can be intimidating, especially for individuals who have not done it before. In fact, in addition to deciding which fish to buy and which equipment to use, these individuals will have to take into account water and temperature requirements, feeding, and compatibility. The fact is, however, that not all fish have high maintenance requirements. This is particularly true when it comes to fish considered to be goodpets for beginners, with non-tarnishing qualities that make them rather approachable even when owners sometimes make small mistakes. Here are some freshwater fish considered to be easiest to take care of, and can be very helpful in teaching individuals who would want to create and maintain fish tanks in the future.
Freshwater fish that are easiest to take care of
Goldfish
Goldfish, for example, are very familiar aquarium fish, but they also demand more space than most people think. Long-bodied breeds such as comets, sarasa, or shubunkin goldfish work much better for people just getting started with this hobby than fancy ones. These fish also tend to grow pretty large and demand enough water capacity to sufficiently dilute their waste. It is also important to consider that a minimum 20-gal water capacity should be provided for each fish, and this will have to increase as they grow older. Another important factor is that goldfish create considerable mess as they eat, so feeding them pellets is beneficial for water clarity.
Betta Fish
Bettas are commonly thought to be low-maintenance pets, but they actually do quite well as long as they are cared for. A five-gallon aquarium with a heater and a filter will give them a stable temperature, which can range from a tropical temperature. Slow water circulation is a priority, as their fins are delicate, as are their surroundings. Bettas are highly intelligent and interactive, making them a pleasure to keep as a pet. Bettas can actually fare pretty well alone, as long as their mates are chosen wisely.
Neon tetras
Neon tetras are tiny, colourful fish that can provide activity and light in a community tank. The fact that they are non-aggressive and do not affect the water much in the tank makes them perfect for those who own an aquarium for the first time. Neon tetras like to live in a group. This makes them feel less stressed and enables them to perform their schooling activities. Planted aquariums are ideal for neon tetras as they provide them with shelter and aesthetic beauty.
Mollies and platys
Mollies and platys are live-bearers. They are known as robust fish with amicable behaviour. They can easily be adjusted to water parameters that are not ideal in many respects. They are non-fussy feeders as well. However, as live-bearers, they should be noted by new pet keepers that they will breed quickly. In fact, it does not matter how small their original population was, as in time they will comprise larger numbers.
Zebrafish
An active, community fish that can do well even with cooler temperatures, making them a good choice for someone just getting started and not needing a strong, specific heating source. Their stark colouring and energetic movements will really bring some life to the aquarium. While your first aquarium may encounter some problems with maintenance and changing conditions, zebrafish can overcome issues, making this one of the best choices for a first aquarium.
Harlequin rasboras
Harlequin Rasboras are peaceful community schooling fish that can really be incorporated well into a community aquarium. Their plain colouration, coupled with their striking markings, ensures that they are aesthetically appealing but entirely non-aggressive. They like their water to be stable, slightly on the warmer side, preferably in a schooling assembly. As long as their fundamental aquarium needs are fulfilled, these fish can really remain active and healthy.
Cory Catfish
Cory catfish are peaceful, bottom-dwelling fish that will help clean an aquarium by consuming any leftover food. They are community-type fish that can be kept in small shoals. There are no particular difficulties associated with keeping cory catfish. They tolerate different water parameters but will thrive best if the substrate is clean and the temperature is stable. They can be paired with other peaceful aquarium fish and will provide some activity near the bottom of the aquarium.
Cherry barbs
Cherry barbs are laid-back, colourful fish that can be much less aggressive than some other types of barbs. Males will display a highly visible red colouration, especially when they feel comfortable and secure in their surroundings. They like to swim around plants and ornaments and are best kept in multiples. There is nothing difficult about maintaining cherry barbs, as they will thrive in a variety of conditions.
Guppies
Guppies are favourably considered for beginners because of their bright colours, hardiness, and ease of maintenance. These peaceful aquarium fish can live side by side with other peaceful fish of a similar size. As is the case with other live-bearing aquarium fish, breeding is easy, and the aquarium population can increase rapidly. Guppies can thrive on a broad diet and can easily endure a certain degree of changes in the aquarium environment.
White Cloud Minnows
White Cloud Minnows are quite small and elegant fish that prefer lower water temperatures, so they can be an excellent addition to a goldfish or an unheated aquarium. They are gentle, hardy, and do well when housed in a group. They are quite easy to look after, even for a complete newbie. If properly cared for, White Cloud Minnows can be quite active and hardy aquarium inhabitants for a beginner freshwater aquarist.