Fish are beautiful, fascinating creatures, so it’s no wonder that many people enjoy having them as pets at home. According to recent data, the global aquarium industry is worth more than a whopping $13 billion.
Before you start building an aquarium, it’s vital to know which types of fish will work for your specific setup.
Read on to learn how to choose fish for aquariums so that your new pets become a crucial part of your life and home.
Start with Your Aquarium Tank Size
Before you look for fish, you’ll need to determine which aquarium tank size works for you. This can depend on several things including how much space you have, how much you’re willing to maintain the tank, and which fish species you want.
The larger the tank, the larger fish you should be able to keep. Remember to take into account how large your fish will become when they grow to their full adult age and size.
Smaller fish don’t need a ton of room, but larger species and bottom feeders do. When in doubt, consult with a pet professional who can guide you and help you find the appropriate tank size for your needs.
Research Fish Behavior
Before you choose fish for aquariums, it’s important to look into their different behaviors and habits. For example, some fish are territorial and may require their own space in order to stay healthy and thrive.
Other types of fish may attempt to eat different species. Many types of tropical fish tend to eat other fish, especially when they’re in an enclosed environment.
Look at the behavior of the fish you want and determine how they’d behave when they’re near other species. Some fish nip at the fins of other fish, which could result in serious injury or even death.
Aggressive fish pose a threat to other fish, while shy or nervous fish will become stressed when forced to live with other species. Ultimately, you’ll want to determine which types of fish coexist peacefully with each other.
Choose Fish for Aquariums Based on Maintenance
Part of owning an aquarium is the maintenance that’s required to keep it clean. Certain fish, like catfish, may not need as many water changes as other types, like goldfish will.
Look at how much care and cleaning your fish will need. If you have a busy schedule or little time, it’s best to choose lower-maintenance fish that don’t need frequent and intense tank cleanings.
It’s also important to look at what type of aquarium filtration system you’ll need. Complex systems require a lot more upkeep than simple, more common aquarium filter systems.
If you’re investing in a saltwater tank, consider looking at corals for sale. These creatures are natural filters that add beauty, color, and additional filtration to your tank.
No matter what type of fish you ultimately choose, they all require a clean tank and water. Research which pH levels and treatments your fish will need for their water, too.
Consider Your Fish Feeding Routine
“Easy” fish like goldfish typically only need the occasional fish food flakes. But other species might require a much more complex diet and feeding schedule.
If you’re getting an aquarium for kids, choose starter fish that are easy to take care of. As you learn about how to take care of fish, you can graduate to more “difficult” fish.
Some species will simply thrive on the algae that grow on the sides and bottom of your tank. Others may need a specific diet that you must follow in order for them to stay healthy.
There are thousands of fish species available for aquariums. That’s why choosing the right option for your lifestyle is so important if you want your new pets to thrive.
Types of Fish to Consider
Many people assume that certain fish, like catfish, are easy to care for. But these fish can grow extremely large, prefer to be fed at night, and are actually specialized feeders — not scavengers. They also prefer to live in groups, which means you’d need a very large tank and the ability to do lots of work to keep them alive.
Cichlids are a popular type of aquarium fish thanks to their beautiful, bright colors. These fish are known for being aggressive, but they do well in a community aquarium as long as they have plenty of room.
Goldfish and koi fish are classified as cypriniforms. These fish are also popular for aquariums because they’re easy to care for and tend to breed many more fish. Any fish under this classification tends to do quite well in a community aquarium.
Labyrinth fish includes betta and paradise fish, both of which are popular with aquarists. This fish species is small, tough, and generally peaceful. However, be aware that some males under this classification can be aggressive.
Rainbowfish and silversides are beautiful and unique thanks to their shimmering, iridescent colors. Most fish under this species are small in size, and they tend to have a peaceful demeanor which makes them a great addition to a community aquarium.
Find Your Fish Today
As you choose fish for aquariums, remember to keep these tips in mind. Consider the size of your tank, what your fish will eat, how they’ll behave, and how much maintenance they require to find the right options for you.
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