By Alfonzo Conroy 
Keeping fish as pets is like inviting a slice of the ocean into your home. Their vibrant colors, quirky behaviors, and low-maintenance care make them perfect for beginners and seasoned aquarists alike. I remember my first aquarium—a small 10-gallon tank with a single betta fish named Blue. Watching him flare his fins like a tiny underwater dragon sparked a lifelong love for these aquatic companions. In this guide, I’ll introduce you to 10 incredible fish you can keep as pets, share tips on their care, and help you decide which ones fit your lifestyle. Whether you’re setting up your first tank or expanding your collection, this article is packed with practical advice to make your fishkeeping journey a success.
Why Choose Fish as Pets?
Fish are unique pets that offer beauty and tranquility without the demands of a dog or cat. They’re ideal for small spaces, require less daily upkeep, and can teach responsibility to kids or busy adults. Plus, watching fish glide through the water is surprisingly soothing—almost like a living stress-relief app.
Benefits of Fishkeeping
Fishkeeping isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a rewarding hobby with tangible perks. From low costs to educational value, here’s why fish make great pets:
- Low Maintenance: Most fish need feeding once or twice a day and occasional tank cleaning.
- Space-Saving: Aquariums fit in apartments or small homes where larger pets might not.
- Therapeutic: Studies show watching fish can reduce stress and anxiety.
- Educational: Fishkeeping teaches kids about biology, ecosystems, and responsibility.
1. Betta Fish (Betta splendens)
Betta fish, with their flowing fins and bold personalities, are the rock stars of the aquarium world. Often called Siamese fighting fish, they come in dazzling colors like sapphire blue and fiery red. My betta Blue would puff up at his reflection, thinking he was facing a rival—pure drama in a 5-gallon tank!
Why Bettas Are Great
Bettas are hardy and thrive in small tanks, making them perfect for beginners. They’re low-maintenance, needing only a simple diet and clean water. Just don’t house two males together—they’re territorial and will fight.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: Minimum 5 gallons for comfort.
- Water Temperature: 76–82°F with a heater.
- Diet: High-protein betta pellets; occasional treats like freeze-dried bloodworms.
- Tank Mates: Avoid aggressive fish; consider snails or shrimp.
2. Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
Guppies are the confetti of freshwater tanks, bursting with color and energy. These tiny fish breed like crazy, so my friend Sarah ended up with a tank full of babies after starting with just three. Their playful nature makes them a joy to watch.
Why Guppies Shine
Guppies are beginner-friendly due to their resilience and adaptability. They’re peaceful, making them great for community tanks, and their small size suits modest setups.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: 10 gallons for a small school.
- Water Temperature: 72–82°F.
- Diet: Flake food, supplemented with brine shrimp.
- Tank Mates: Tetras, mollies, or cory catfish.
3. Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)
Neon tetras are like living jewels, with their electric blue bodies and red stripes. I added a school to my community tank, and their synchronized swimming was mesmerizing—like a tiny aquatic ballet.
Why Neons Are a Must
These small, peaceful fish are easy to care for and add vibrant color to any tank. They thrive in groups, so get at least six to see their schooling behavior.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: 10 gallons or larger.
- Water Temperature: 70–78°F.
- Diet: Flake or micro-pellet food; occasional live food.
- Tank Mates: Other small, non-aggressive fish like rasboras.
4. Goldfish (Carassius auratus)
Goldfish are the classic pet fish, but don’t be fooled by the tiny bowls at pet stores. My cousin’s goldfish, Goldie, grew to 8 inches in a proper tank, living for over a decade with the right care.
Why Goldfish Are Timeless
Goldfish are hardy and forgiving, ideal for beginners willing to invest in a larger tank. Their bright orange color and curious nature make them charming pets.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: 30 gallons for one; add 10 gallons per additional fish.
- Water Temperature: 65–75°F (no heater needed).
- Diet: Goldfish-specific pellets; avoid overfeeding.
- Tank Mates: Other goldfish or white cloud minnows.
5. Corydoras Catfish (Corydoras spp.)
Corydoras, or cory cats, are the tank’s cleanup crew with a side of cuteness. Watching my panda corys dart along the bottom, scavenging for food, always makes me smile—they’re like tiny vacuum cleaners.
Why Corys Are Adorable
These small, peaceful bottom-dwellers are easy to care for and help keep tanks clean. They’re social, so keep them in groups of six or more.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
- Water Temperature: 72–78°F.
- Diet: Sinking pellets; occasional live food.
- Tank Mates: Guppies, tetras, or rasboras.
6. Harlequin Rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha)
Harlequin rasboras are elegant fish with striking black triangles and orange hues. I once saw a school of 12 in a planted tank, and their synchronized movements were hypnotic.
Why Rasboras Rock
These peaceful fish are hardy and thrive in community tanks. Their small size and active nature make them a great addition for beginners.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: 10 gallons for a school of six.
- Water Temperature: 73–79°F.
- Diet: Flake food; occasional live daphnia.
- Tank Mates: Tetras, guppies, or corys.
7. White Cloud Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys albonubes)
White cloud minnows are tiny, hardy fish with a silvery glow and red tails. I recommended them to a friend with a small tank, and she loved their low-maintenance charm.
Why Minnows Are Marvelous
These fish tolerate a wide range of temperatures, making them perfect for unheated tanks. They’re peaceful and great for small setups.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: 10 gallons.
- Water Temperature: 64–72°F (no heater needed).
- Diet: Flake food; occasional brine shrimp.
- Tank Mates: Other small, peaceful fish.
8. Bolivian Ram (Mikrogeophagus altispinosus)
Bolivian rams are small cichlids with big personalities. My ram, Rocky, would follow my finger along the glass, making him the star of my tank.
Why Rams Are Remarkable
These cichlids are peaceful compared to others, making them suitable for community tanks. Their vibrant colors and curious behavior are captivating.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: 20 gallons.
- Water Temperature: 72–79°F.
- Diet: High-quality pellets; occasional live food.
- Tank Mates: Tetras, rasboras, or corys.
9. Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya)
Cherry barbs glow with a rich red hue, especially the males. I added a few to my tank, and their playful chasing added a lively spark.
Why Cherry Barbs Charm
These fish are peaceful and hardy, ideal for beginners. Their vibrant color makes them stand out in any aquarium.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: 15 gallons.
- Water Temperature: 73–81°F.
- Diet: Flake food; occasional live worms.
- Tank Mates: Tetras, guppies, or corys.
10. Kuhli Loach (Pangio kuhlii)
Kuhli loaches are eel-like fish with banded patterns, perfect for adding quirkiness to your tank. Mine would hide during the day, then slither out at night like sneaky ninjas.
Why Kuhlis Are Cool
These nocturnal bottom-dwellers are peaceful and hardy. Their unique appearance and behavior make them a fun addition.
Care Tips
- Tank Size: 15 gallons.
- Water Temperature: 73–79°F.
- Diet: Sinking pellets; live or frozen food.
- Tank Mates: Peaceful fish like guppies or tetras.
Comparison Table: At-a-Glance Fish Facts
| Fish Species | Tank Size (Min) | Temperature (°F) | Diet | Tank Mates | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Betta Fish | 5 gallons | 76–82 | Betta pellets | Snails, shrimp | Easy |
| Guppy | 10 gallons | 72–82 | Flake food | Tetras, mollies | Easy |
| Neon Tetra | 10 gallons | 70–78 | Flake/micro-pellets | Rasboras, guppies | Easy |
| Goldfish | 30 gallons | 65–75 | Goldfish pellets | Goldfish, minnows | Moderate |
| Corydoras Catfish | 10 gallons | 72–78 | Sinking pellets | Guppies, tetras | Easy |
| Harlequin Rasbora | 10 gallons | 73–79 | Flake food | Tetras, corys | Easy |
| White Cloud Minnow | 10 gallons | 64–72 | Flake food | Small peaceful fish | Easy |
| Bolivian Ram | 20 gallons | 72–79 | Pellets, live food | Tetras, rasboras | Moderate |
| Cherry Barb | 15 gallons | 73–81 | Flake food | Tetras, guppies | Easy |
| Kuhli Loach | 15 gallons | 73–79 | Sinking pellets | Guppies, tetras | Moderate |
Pros and Cons of Fishkeeping
Pros
- Relaxing Hobby: Watching fish reduces stress and adds calm to your space.
- Low Space Needs: Perfect for apartments or small homes.
- Variety: Endless species to suit any skill level or aesthetic.
- Affordable: Basic setups can cost under $100.
Cons
- Initial Setup Cost: Tanks, filters, and heaters add up.
- Maintenance: Water changes and tank cleaning require consistency.
- Learning Curve: Understanding water chemistry can be tricky.
- Lifespan: Some fish live only a few years, which can be emotional.
Where to Get Your Fish
Finding healthy fish is key to a thriving aquarium. Local pet stores like PetSmart or Petco often carry these species, but check their tank conditions—cloudy water or sick fish are red flags. Online retailers like Aquarium Co-Op or LiveAquaria offer quality fish with shipping options. Local fish clubs or breeders can also provide unique, healthy stock.
Tips for Buying Fish
- Inspect Health: Look for active fish with bright colors and no torn fins.
- Quarantine New Fish: Isolate them for 2–4 weeks to prevent disease spread.
- Ask About Source: Reputable sellers share details on fish origins.
Best Tools for Fishkeeping
Setting up a successful aquarium requires the right equipment. Here’s what you need to get started:
- Tank: 10–30 gallons for beginners; brands like Aqueon are reliable.
- Filter: Hang-on-back filters (e.g., AquaClear) for easy maintenance.
- Heater: Adjustable heaters like Eheim for tropical fish.
- Test Kit: API Freshwater Master Test Kit for monitoring water quality.
- Substrate: Gravel or sand for aesthetics and plant growth.
For detailed reviews, check The Spruce Pets for equipment guides.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What Are the Easiest Fish to Keep as Pets?
The easiest fish for beginners include betta fish, guppies, neon tetras, and white cloud minnows due to their hardiness and low maintenance. These species tolerate a range of water conditions and don’t require complex setups. Always research specific care needs to ensure success.
Can You Mix Different Fish in One Tank?
Yes, but choose fish with similar water temperature, pH, and temperament needs. For example, guppies and neon tetras coexist well, but avoid pairing bettas with aggressive fish. Always introduce new fish slowly to prevent stress.
How Often Should You Clean a Fish Tank?
Clean your tank every 1–2 weeks, performing 25–50% water changes to remove waste and maintain water quality. Use a gravel vacuum to clean the substrate and check filters monthly. Regular maintenance keeps fish healthy and tanks clear.
What Size Tank Is Best for Beginners?
A 10–20-gallon tank is ideal for beginners, offering enough space for a small community while being manageable. Larger tanks are more stable but require more upkeep. Start small to learn the ropes before upgrading.
FAQ Section
How Much Does It Cost to Start a Fish Tank?
A basic 10-gallon setup costs $50–$150, including the tank, filter, heater, and substrate. Fish prices range from $2–$10 each, with food and test kits adding $20–$40. Budget for ongoing costs like food and water treatments.
Do Fish Need a Lot of Attention?
Fish require less attention than other pets but need daily feeding and weekly water checks. Expect to spend 1–2 hours weekly on maintenance. Observing your fish daily helps catch health issues early.
Can Fish Recognize Their Owners?
Some fish, like bettas and cichlids, can recognize their owners over time, especially during feeding. They may swim to the glass or follow your movements. Building this bond adds to the joy of fishkeeping.
What’s the Lifespan of Pet Fish?
Lifespans vary: bettas live 2–5 years, guppies 1–3 years, goldfish 10–15 years with proper care. Factors like water quality and diet affect longevity. Regular care ensures your fish thrive.
How Do I Know If My Fish Are Healthy?
Healthy fish are active, have bright colors, and eat eagerly. Watch for signs of illness like lethargy, clamped fins, or white spots. Regular water testing and quarantine for new fish prevent issues.
Optimizing Your Aquarium for Success
To make your fishkeeping experience rewarding, focus on these tips:
- Test Water Regularly: Use a test kit to monitor pH, ammonia, and nitrites.
- Cycle Your Tank: Establish beneficial bacteria before adding fish (takes 4–6 weeks).
- Decorate Thoughtfully: Add plants and hiding spots for fish comfort.
- Feed Sparingly: Overfeeding pollutes water; offer what fish eat in 2 minutes.
For more on tank cycling, visit Aquarium Co-Op’s guide.
Final Thoughts
Fishkeeping is a journey of discovery, from watching neon tetras dance to laughing at kuhli loaches’ sneaky antics. These 10 incredible fish offer something for everyone—whether you’re drawn to the vibrant betta or the hardy goldfish. Start small, learn as you go, and soon you’ll have a thriving underwater world. What fish will you choose to start your aquarium adventure? Share your thoughts or questions below, and let’s dive into this hobby together!