A Complete Guide to Freshwater Fish Tanks: Selection, Setup, and Maintenance

How to Create and Maintain a Minimal-Maintenance Aquarium

The females are a light tan color with a dark stripe running down their sides. It is the unique coloring of the male species that gives this fish its name. These have a red color that becomes deep cherry red when they are spawning. These cheap fish pets grow to around 1.3” (3.5 cm) from head to tail. This bottom-dwelling fish likes to spend time by its burrow, and feeds on food that sinks to the bottom of the tank.

Common Goldfish

They are a good match for other peaceful types of fish that enjoy lingering in different parts of the tank. True to their name, the neon rainbow fish dazzles with its iridescent scales, particularly when they swim against well-planted tanks. Because of their timid nature, we recommend keeping these fish in groups of at least 6 individuals. These cute Catfish only reach around 2.5 inches in length and prefer to be kept in groups. They will be happy with a partner but will become most active in larger groups. These tiny shoaling fish are one of the most recognizable in the aquatics trade.

Purification Techniques: Explore methods to purify water if needed, like filters or boiling

• Native to Southeast Asia, the pearl gourami is not only strikingly attractive but also very easy to take care of.
• It’s better to feed smaller amounts more frequently than a large amount at once.
• Don’t panic; with care and observation, your fish will stay healthy and happy.
• Wastes can pollute the water when degrading threatening the life of aquarium fish.

An aquarium that’s safe for fish will read 0 ppm (parts per million) of ammonia, 0 ppm nitrite, and around 10 ppm of nitrate. Therefore, it’s not recommended to keep fish in an aquarium without a running filter for more than a week and that’s pushing it. Generally, the fish for an aquarium of this size should not be an over-breeder or a fast-grower. A 5-gallon bowl with some live plants would make a good habitat for a single male Betta. Such small volumes of water get polluted by organic waste very quickly and sudden ammonia spikes, deadly for aquatic inhabitants, are often observed. Betta fish, which has a unique organ called the Labyrinth, is one kind of fish that can survive such low-oxygen environments.

Known for their iridescent silver bodies and hints of red on their fins, these fish are both hardy and visually appealing. Cory Catfish are delightful bottom dwellers that bring charm and functionality to any beginner aquarium. Known for their peaceful nature, they are excellent scavengers that help keep the tank clean by consuming leftover food and debris. Neon Tetras are small, vibrant fish known for their electric blue and red stripes, which make them a striking addition to any beginner’s tank. These fish are schooling by nature, meaning they thrive in groups of six or more. Despite their delicate appearance, Betta Fish are robust and can live for several years with proper care.

Stable water conditions and a balanced diet of flake food, supplemented with occasional live or frozen treats, will support their health and vibrant colors. Beginners will appreciate their easygoing nature and the lively dynamics they introduce to the tank. While they can adapt to a variety of water conditions, maintaining clean and well-oxygenated water will ensure their health and happiness. Their diet should include sinking pellets and occasional live or frozen foods to mimic their natural foraging habits.

Additionally, they have a high tolerance for varying water conditions, but maintaining a consistent environment will ensure their best health and coloration. Providing a diet rich in flake foods and occasional live or frozen treats will keep them healthy and vibrant. Beginners will appreciate their active nature and the splash of color they bring to the tank. Their harmonious social behavior and small size make them ideal for community tanks, where they can coexist with other peaceful species. Despite their delicate appearance, Neon Tetras are quite hardy, provided they have a stable environment with consistent water parameters.