Starting your journey into the world of fish-keeping can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Aquariums not only add a touch of nature and tranquillity to your home but also provide a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. However, for beginners, choosing the easiest fish to keep is essential to ensure a smooth introduction to this fulfilling hobby. Selecting species that are hardy, low-maintenance and adaptable to various conditions can significantly enhance your experience.
Why start with easy fish to keep?
For those new to aquariums, managing water quality, temperature and feeding schedules can be daunting. Opting for fish that are resilient and require minimal care helps build confidence and reduces the risk of early mishaps. The best fish for beginners are not only forgiving of minor mistakes but also bring vibrant energy and beauty to any tank.
Factors to consider
Before choosing the easiest fish to look after, consider the following:
- Tank size: Some species thrive in small tanks, while others require larger environments to stay healthy.
- Compatibility: Certain fish are peaceful and coexist well with others, while some can be territorial.
- Diet: Understanding the dietary needs of your fish ensures they receive proper nutrition.
- Water parameters: The pH, temperature and hardness of the water must align with the fish’s natural habitat.
With these factors in mind, let’s explore the best fish for beginners.
Top choices for beginners
Choosing the right fish to start your aquarium journey can make all the difference. For beginners, it’s best to focus on species that are both resilient and easy to look after. Below you can find a selection of the easiest fish to keep, each offering unique qualities that make them ideal for those who are starting out in the world of aquariums.
Guppies
Guppies are often regarded as one of the easiest fish to keep due to their hardy nature and vibrant colours. These livebearers adapt well to a range of water conditions, making them ideal for beginners. Known for their wide variety of patterns and colours, guppies can be a delightful visual addition to any aquarium. They are also highly adaptable, which makes them forgiving of minor mistakes that beginners might make while learning how to maintain water quality.
These active and peaceful fish thrive in small groups and can adjust to tanks as small as 20 litres, though larger tanks provide more room for them to swim and help maintain stable water conditions. Additionally, guppies are known for their breeding capabilities, which can be both fascinating and rewarding for fish keepers.
Key Requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum 20 litres.
- Water temperature: 22–28°C.
- Diet: Flake food, live or frozen brine shrimp.
Guppies are peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive species, making them excellent community fish for beginners. Ensuring regular water changes and avoiding overcrowding will keep them healthy and active.
Betta
Betta fish, often recognised for their striking colours and flowing fins, are a favourite among aquarium enthusiasts. These visually stunning fish are also hardy and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, though they are best suited for solitary tanks unless housed with very peaceful tank mates. Their unique ability to breathe surface air allows them to thrive in tanks with minimal aeration, although a gentle filter and clean water are always beneficial.
Bettas, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are stunningly beautiful and low-maintenance. While male bettas are territorial and should not be housed with other male bettas, they can live peacefully with non-aggressive tank mates.
Key Requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum 10 litres (preferably larger).
- Water temperature: 24–30°C.
- Diet: High-quality betta pellets, occasional frozen or live foods.
Their ability to breathe surface air makes them adaptable to tanks without complex filtration systems, though a gentle filter is recommended.
Neon Tetras
Neon tetras are small, vibrant schooling fish that add a pop of colour to any tank. Their bright, blue and red stripes make them stand out in any aquarium setup. They are an excellent choice for beginners, as they are peaceful, hardy and easy to look after.
Neon tetras are schooling fish, meaning they thrive best when kept in groups of six or more. Their natural swimming behaviour reduces stress and creates a lively display in your tank. Providing plenty of plants and hiding spots mimics their natural habitat and enhances their vibrant colours.
These fish are also low-maintenance and can live up to five years with proper care, making them a rewarding choice for beginners.
Key Requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum 40 litres.
- Water temperature: 20–26°C.
- Diet: Flake food, micro-pellets, or live/frozen food.
Neon tetras thrive in groups of at least six and prefer tanks with plenty of plants and hiding spots. Feeding them a balanced mix of high-quality flake food and occasional live or frozen treats will keep them healthy and active. Regular water changes and maintaining stable water parameters ensure they continue to thrive.
Mollies
Mollies are versatile, hardy fish that come in a variety of colours and patterns. They can adapt to both freshwater and brackish water, making them one of the easiest fish to look after. Mollies are also known for their sociable nature and active behaviour, which can make your aquarium lively and engaging.
These fish are incredibly adaptable to different water conditions, but they do best in a stable, well-maintained environment. They are particularly suited for community tanks with other peaceful species, as long as their tank mates share similar water parameter requirements.
Mollies are livebearers and prolific breeders, so be prepared for potential fry if males and females are kept together. This can be an exciting aspect for beginners looking to explore fish breeding.
Key Requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum 40 litres.
- Water temperature: 24–28°C.
- Diet: Flake food, algae wafers, vegetables like zucchini.
Providing hiding spots, such as plants or decorations, can help mollies feel secure and give fry a better chance of survival. With proper care, these active and resilient fish can thrive and bring endless joy to their keepers.
Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras catfish are peaceful bottom-dwellers that help keep the tank clean by scavenging for leftover food. Their gentle nature and ability to thrive in a variety of water conditions make them an excellent choice for community tanks. These fish are highly social and should be kept in groups of three to six to ensure their well-being and active behaviour. Corydoras are also known for their amusing habit of "sitting" on the substrate while resting, adding charm to any aquarium.
They are hardy and low-maintenance, making them suitable for beginners who want a fish that contributes to tank cleanliness. Providing smooth substrate and plenty of hiding spots will keep them healthy and stress-free. Their unique appearance and engaging behaviour make them a favourite among aquarists.
Key Requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum 40 litres.
- Water temperature: 22–28°C.
- Diet: Sinking pellets, algae wafers, live or frozen food.
Platies
Platies are colourful, active fish that are perfect for beginners. They are undemanding and thrive in a variety of water conditions, making them one of the best fish for beginners. These hardy fish are known for their peaceful temperament, which allows them to coexist with a wide range of tank mates.
In addition to their vibrant colours, platies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming young rather than laying eggs. This can be an exciting experience for new aquarists who want to explore fish breeding. Platies are also highly adaptable, capable of thriving in both small and large tanks, provided water conditions are stable.
Key Requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum 40 litres.
- Water temperature: 22–28°C.
- Diet: Flake food, live/frozen food and vegetable matter.
Platies are social and do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Their easy-going nature and low maintenance requirements make them a rewarding choice for any beginner.
Danio Rerio
Danios, also known as zebrafish, are energetic and hardy fish, making them an excellent choice for beginners. These small, active swimmers are highly social and thrive in groups, where their playful behaviour becomes most evident. They are particularly well-suited for community tanks due to their peaceful temperament and adaptability to various tank setups. Additionally, their striped appearance adds a striking visual element to aquariums, making them a favourite among novice and experienced fish keepers.
Danios are also known for their remarkable tolerance to a range of water conditions, making them forgiving of occasional beginner mistakes. They are highly active throughout the day, often darting around the tank in playful bursts, which adds dynamic energy to your aquarium.
Key Requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum 40 litres.
- Water temperature: 18–24°C.
- Diet: Flake food, live/frozen food.
Neon Green Rasbora
These vibrant, schooling fish are a stunning addition to beginner aquariums. Their small size and peaceful nature make them ideal for community tanks. Neon Green Rasboras are known for their shimmering green hues, which stand out beautifully against a backdrop of plants and natural decorations.
These fish are also highly active and thrive in groups, where their synchronised swimming creates a captivating display. They are adaptable to a variety of water conditions, making them a forgiving choice for new aquarists. Additionally, their gentle temperament allows them to coexist harmoniously with other small, peaceful fish species.
Key Requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum 40 litres.
- Water temperature: 22–26°C.
- Diet: Micro-pellets, live/frozen food.
Neon Green Rasbora thrive in groups of at least six and enjoy planted tanks. Providing hiding spots and open swimming areas ensures they remain active and stress-free.
Bristlenose Pleco
Plecos are excellent algae eaters and are easy to look after, making them a functional addition to beginner tanks. Their ability to keep algae in check helps maintain a clean and balanced aquarium environment. Bristlenose Plecos are smaller than other pleco species, making them a better fit for medium-sized tanks.
These peaceful fish are mostly active during the night and prefer plenty of hiding spots, such as caves or driftwood. They are also known for their distinct appearance, with bristles on their snouts that add a unique touch to any tank.
Key Requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum 60 litres.
- Water temperature: 22–28°C.
- Diet: Algae wafers, sinking pellets, vegetables.
Plecos are nocturnal and enjoy plenty of hiding spots in their environment. Providing them with driftwood not only serves as a shelter but also as a supplementary food source, aiding their digestion.
Setting up your aquarium for success
To ensure your fish thrive, take the time to properly set up and maintain their environment:
- Preparing the tank (commonly referred to as cycling): Before adding fish, establish a healthy nitrogen cycle, a practice that ensures stable ammonia and nitrate levels essential for fish health.
- Choosing the right filter: A good filter helps maintain water quality and reduces the frequency of water changes.
- Maintaining water parameters: Regularly test and adjust the pH, temperature and hardness to meet your fish’s needs.
- Feeding responsibly: Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality. Feed your fish small amounts once or twice a day.
Common mistakes to avoid
While starting with the easiest fish to keep simplifies the process, beginners should be mindful of these common mistakes:
- Overcrowding: Adding too many fish to a tank can stress them and degrade water quality.
- Incompatible species: Mixing aggressive and peaceful fish can lead to conflicts.
- Neglecting maintenance (a common challenge even for experienced aquarists): Regular water changes and tank cleaning are essential for a healthy aquarium.
Final thoughts
Embarking on the journey of fishkeeping is both exciting and educational. By starting with the best fish for beginners, such as guppies, bettas, and neon tetras, you can create a vibrant and low-maintenance aquarium. Remember to research each species’ requirements, set up your tank thoughtfully and maintain a consistent care routine. With the right approach, your aquarium will flourish, bringing endless joy and relaxation to your home.