Starting an aquarium can feel overwhelming, but choosing the right fish makes it much easier. I had many ups and downs as a first time aquarium owner! Finding the perfect fish to coexist with one another, or just getting their water temperature right can be tricky!
So, if you are searching for low-maintenance and beginner-friendly fish for your tank, you’re in for a delight! Let’s dive into the top fish for new aquarium enthusiasts and why they’re such a great choice.
1. Guppies
Guppies are the ultimate beginner fish. Their bright colors and endless energy make any tank look lively. These little swimmers adapt well to a variety of water conditions and are very forgiving if you’re still learning about aquarium care.
They are peaceful and get along well with others, so you can start a small community tank with them.
Pro tip: Stick to one gender if you don’t want baby guppies taking over your tank.
2. Betta Fish
Known for their vibrant colors and flowing fins, Betta Fish thrive in small tanks and don’t need an air pump because they can breathe from the surface. They do well in clean water with high-quality pellets or frozen foods.
Their stunning looks and ease of care make them a favorite for first-time owners.
3. Neon Tetras
These fish bring a pop of glowing color to any aquarium with their shimmering blue and red stripes. They are tiny, peaceful fish that thrive in groups, so keep at least six to make them feel secure.
Neon Tetras are low-maintenance and only need a stable, clean tank to thrive. They love plants and hiding spots, so adding some decorations will keep them happy. And the way they swim around the tank, will definitely bring joy to your home!
4. Zebra Danios
These hardy little fish can handle a wide range of water temperatures and conditions, which makes them ideal for first-time fishkeepers.
Zebra Danios are active, playful, and love swimming in groups. If you’re looking for fish that are both fun to watch and easy to care for, zebra danios are a great pick. And my personal favorite!
5. Mollies
Mollies are peaceful, easygoing fish that come in a rainbow of colors, from classic black to vibrant orange. Plus, I think they are absolutely stunning!
They can live in freshwater or slightly salty water, giving you more flexibility with your tank setup. Mollies are perfect for community tanks and are easy to feed with flakes or pellets. Keep their water clean, and they’ll thrive with minimal effort.
6. Platies
These adorable little creatures are beginner favorites because they’re hardy, friendly, and colorful. Platies adapt easily to different water conditions and don’t require any special care.
They give birth to live young, known as fry, rather than laying eggs. If you want baby fish without much work, platies are a great option. Just make sure you have enough hiding spots for the little ones. Some cute decoration and live plants will do the trick!
7. Cherry Barbs
Another personal favorite, cherry barbs are small, bright red fish that are both beautiful and easy to care for. They are peaceful and do well in community tanks.
Cherry barbs are hardy and can adapt to a range of water conditions, making them great for beginners. They love to swim in schools, so keep at least five for a happy and lively aquarium.
8. Corydoras Catfish
Say hello to the clean-up crew of the aquarium world! These bottom-dwellers eat leftover food and help keep your tank tidy. They are peaceful, easy to care for, and enjoy living in small groups.
Corydoras love smooth substrate and hiding spots, so give them a cozy home, and they’ll happily do their part in keeping your tank clean. Isn’t this little cleaner just stunning?
9. Swordtails
Swordtails are named for their long, elegant tails that resemble swords. They are hardy, adaptable, and come in a variety of colors, making them a stunning addition to any aquarium.
They are peaceful and get along well with other fish, which makes them perfect for community tanks. Keep the water clean, feed them regularly, and they’ll thrive with ease. Swordtails are simply gorgeous, am I right?
10. Harlequin Rasboras
Harlequin Rasboras are small, peaceful fish that bring vibrant colors and activity to any aquarium. Their metallic orange bodies with a black triangular marking make them stand out beautifully. These fish thrive in groups of six or more, creating mesmerizing schooling behavior that adds life to your tank.
They’re hardy and adapt easily to a range of water conditions, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
Harlequin Rasboras love planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots and open swimming areas, so a balance of decorations and space will keep them happy.
11. Endler’s Livebearers
Endler’s Livebearers are like tiny jewels, known for their dazzling patterns and vivid colors.
These fish are related to guppies and share the same low-maintenance nature, making them a fantastic option for new aquarium owners. They thrive in small tanks and adapt well to various water conditions.
Endler’s Livebearers are active and social, so keeping them in groups of at least five will encourage their natural behavior. They’re also prolific breeders, so if you enjoy raising fry, these little swimmers are perfect for you.