How to Create and Maintain a Minimal-Maintenance Aquarium

Freshwater Aquarium Fish for Beginners Easy Fish to Keep Alive

However, if you're ready to start an aquarium and are aware of what you're taking on, there are a whole host of colorful fish to choose from. If you're in the throes of setting up a home aquarium, you may be curious about the types of freshwater fish you can keep as a pet. Often the first fish that springs to mind is a goldfish, but there are so many other wonderful species out there that can be kept as pets. Remember to monitor salt levels regularly and adjust as needed to keep your aquatic friends healthy and happy. With the right balance you’ll not only prevent diseases but also promote overall well-being in your aquarium.

Understanding Aquarium Salt

Oscars can be territorial, so it’s crucial to provide ample space to prevent aggression. Despite their demanding nature, their vibrant personality and beauty reward the effort. Mollies and Platys are two distinct species of livebearers that are often grouped together due to their similar care requirements and ease of breeding. These fish come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them a delightful addition to any aquarium.

How to Maintain a Freshwater Aquarium: A Complete Guide to Keeping Your Tank Clean and Healthy

• Best kept in groups of six or more of their own kind, they are very adaptable and gentle and will not bother smaller tank mates.
• To calculate the correct heater size for your tank you take the average degrees the room the tank is in and subtract that from what you want your tank to be.
• But by choosing a filter that exceeds the capacity of your tank, you allow more water to be filtered, again, buying you some more flexibility in your maintenance routine.
• Make sure you are providing adequate food for your fish type, and lastly if you see a sick fish remove it from the tank and quarantine it.

Whether you’re looking for colorful displays or easy maintenance, these fish have something for everyone. Also, the Stripe-Necked turtle is shy, which is not the best trait for a centerpiece. But don’t mistake its shyness and habitat preference with a peaceful temperament because this species may bite you if you get too close. Keep a reasonable distance and monitor their body language, and you’ll be fine.

Read each description carefully, and be honest about your experience level so you don’t get overwhelmed by a complex turtle species like the Chinese Softshell Turtle as a beginner. First-time aquarists should consider easy options like Red-Eared Slider, Stripe-Neck Musk, and Reeves’ Turtles. Earlier, I highlighted the beauty of colorful aquatic turtles, so let’s shine a light on another sub-variant, the Southern Painted Turtle.

These shoaling fish are easy to care for and can thrive in cooler water temperatures, which makes a heater not always necessary for their care. Betta fish are one of the most popular freshwater fish due to their low-maintenance nature and flowing, colorful fins. They have a labyrinth organ, which allows them to breathe surface air in low-oxygen environments. They have simple feeding requirements and will be happy in a tank with plants, a heater, and plenty of space to swim.

Aquarium Filtration

These are the least expensive option and work very well for smaller tanks. There are several pieces that all come together when you are trying to select your first aquarium setup. You should also consider how much time you have to devote to the upkeep and cleaning of your tank.