Freshwater Fish Guide: Best Species, Tank Setup & Care Tips

Starting a freshwater aquarium is exciting, but it can also be stressful. Many beginners worry about doing something wrong feeding too much, missing a water change, or setting up the tank imperfectly. The good news is that some freshwater fish are naturally more forgiving. These fish can handle small beginner errors while you learn the basics of fishkeeping. This guide…

Keeping guppies with shrimp sounds simple. Both are small, colorful, and common in beginner aquariums. Many stores even suggest them together. In reality, this mix can succeed or fail depending on how the tank is set up, what shrimp species you choose, and what expectations you have. This guide explains what actually works and what fails when keeping guppies with…

Gourami fish are popular freshwater aquarium fish known for their calm swimming style, unique body shape, and ability to thrive in planted community tanks. While many gourami species are beginner-friendly, others require stable water conditions, larger tank sizes, and careful tank mate selection. Because different gourami types behave very differently, choosing the wrong species is one of the most common…

The Thick-Lipped Gourami is a colorful and peaceful freshwater fish that adds personality and beauty to community aquariums. Unlike larger species such as the Giant Gourami, this mid-sized gourami stays small enough to thrive in modestly sized tanks while still showcasing the unique behaviors the gourami family is known for. With their bright shades of orange, red, and gold, these…

Keeping a Giant Gourami is unlike caring for most aquarium fish. These freshwater giants can grow nearly two feet long, live for over two decades, and even learn to recognize their owners. With their impressive size and unique personality, they’re a favorite among advanced fishkeepers who are ready for a long-term commitment. But keeping a Giant Gourami isn’t just about…

Chocolate Gourami (Sphaerichthys osphromenoides) is one of the most striking freshwater fish you can add to an aquarium. With its rich brown coloring, golden vertical bands, and unique mouthbrooding behavior, it stands out even among other gouramis. But there’s a catch this species is delicate. It thrives only in stable, soft, acidic water and is best suited for aquarists with…

If you’ve ever wanted a peaceful yet striking centerpiece for your aquarium, the Snakeskin Gourami (Trichopodus pectoralis) is worth considering. Known for their subtle silver body patterned with snake-like markings, these fish are calm, hardy, and surprisingly large compared to other gouramis. Species Overview The Snakeskin Gourami comes from Southeast Asia, where it inhabits rivers, ponds, rice paddies, and slow-moving…

Blood Parrot Cichlids are one of those aquarium fish that you either love at first sight or feel unsure about. Their bright orange color, round body, and quirky swimming style definitely make them stand out but they also come with a unique backstory and some special care needs. Whether you’re a beginner aquarist or just curious about this hybrid fish,…

The Rainbow Shark is one of the most eye-catching freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby. With its sleek black body and vibrant red fins, it’s easy to see why so many hobbyists are drawn to them. But don’t let the name fool you this “shark” isn’t always peaceful. Rainbow Sharks are semi-aggressive and territorial, so proper care, space, and planning…

If you’ve ever wanted a cichlid with bold colors but without the size and aggression of larger species, Apistogramma might be exactly what you’re looking for. These small South American dwarf cichlids are full of personality. They explore, claim territory, guard their caves, and show off incredible colors when they feel comfortable. But here’s the honest truth: they’re not “set…

Clown Killifish, also known as Rocket Killifish, are one of the most eye-catching nano fish in the aquarium hobby. With their torpedo-shaped bodies, banded patterns, and flowing tail fins, they’re a joy to watch dart around the top of the tank. Even better? They’re peaceful, hardy, and fit beautifully into planted and nano aquariums. In this guide, we’ll cover everything…

Flowerhorn cichlids are some of the most eye-catching and personality-packed fish you can add to a freshwater aquarium. Known for their bright colors and large, bulbous head hump (called a “kok”), these hybrids are as bold in behavior as they are in looks. But with their size and attitude, Flowerhorns aren’t your typical community fish—they require space, stable water, and…

Moonlight Gouramis are gentle, glowing freshwater fish that bring a calm, peaceful presence to any aquarium. Their silvery-blue bodies shimmer under soft lighting, making them a favorite for planted tanks and community setups. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned aquarist, these fish are a beautiful and low-maintenance choice. This guide covers everything you need in one place—tank size, lighting,…

Kissing Gouramis are one of the most unique freshwater fish you can keep—famous for their puckered lips and bold personality. But beyond their odd “kissing” behavior lies a surprisingly large and semi-aggressive fish that needs the right care, space, and tank setup to thrive. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Kissing Gouramis, from…

Telescope goldfish are one of the most eye-catching fancy goldfish breeds, easily recognized by their large, protruding eyes. While beautiful, their unique appearance also makes them more sensitive to injury and poor water conditions. With the right setup and gentle care, telescope goldfish can live long, healthy lives. This guide will walk you through their care basics, feeding, tank setup,…

Looking for creative betta fish tank ideas? Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned aquascaper, these betta setups offer inspiration for every style and space. From lush jungle themes to minimalist nano tanks, each design balances beauty with a healthy environment your betta will love. In this guide, you’ll find 16 stunning tank setups—perfect for upgrading your current aquarium or…

Crown Tail Bettas are one of the most eye-catching Betta fish varieties, known for their dramatic, spiky tails that resemble a crown. These elegant freshwater fish are a favorite for both beginner and advanced aquarists due to their unique look and manageable care needs. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to keep your Crown Tail Betta healthy, active,…

Plakat Bettas are a short-finned form of Betta splendens bred to resemble their wild ancestors. Unlike long-finned Bettas that glide slowly, Plakats move with purpose fast turns, quick bursts, and constant exploration. Because of their compact fins, Plakats are often marketed as “easier” Bettas. That’s partly true but only if you understand their energy level and territorial nature. They’re tougher…

Veil Tail Bettas are the most common Betta fish variety, but “common” doesn’t mean boring. Their long, flowing fins and calm swimming style make them one of the most recognizable and beginner-friendly Bettas available. While newer Betta types often steal attention, Veil Tails remain a reliable choice for home aquariums because they are hardy, affordable, and adaptable. This guide explains…

Blue Gouramis (Trichopodus trichopterus), also called Three-Spot Gouramis, are beautiful and hardy freshwater fish perfect for beginners. Known for their shimmering blue color and easygoing nature, these fish can thrive in a wide range of aquarium setups. In this guide, you’ll learn how to care for Blue Gouramis—covering their size, feeding habits, tank setup, behavior, and breeding tips. What Is…

The Pearl Gourami (Trichopodus leerii) is one of the most beautiful freshwater fish you can add to a peaceful community tank. With its shimmering pearl-like spots, long fins, and calm personality, it’s a favorite among aquarists who want something elegant and low-maintenance. This care guide covers everything you need to know from ideal tank setup and feeding habits to behavior,…

The Honey Gourami (Trichogaster chuna) is a peaceful, beginner-friendly fish loved for its soft yellow-to-orange coloring and gentle nature. They’re ideal for calm community aquariums and thrive in planted setups with low flow. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to care for Honey Gouramis from their size and diet to tank setup and compatible mates. What…

GloFish Danios are one of the most vibrant and beginner-friendly fish you can add to a freshwater aquarium. Their fluorescent colors make them stand out, while their active and peaceful nature makes them fun to watch. If you’re looking for an easy, eye-catching species that fits in well with other fish, GloFish Danios are a great choice. In this guide,…

Bala Sharks are sleek, fast-swimming freshwater fish known for their silver bodies and peaceful personalities. Although they’re not true sharks, their torpedo-shaped build and active nature make them a striking addition to large home aquariums. In this guide, you’ll learn everything about Bala Shark care from tank size and feeding to ideal tank mates and health concerns. Looking for more…

Betta fish come in many unique forms, mostly defined by their tail shapes and body features. From common types like Veil Tail to rare designer varieties like Alien or Hellboy, there’s a Betta for every kind of tank setup and keeper. This guide covers 24 popular Betta types, each with its own style and personality. Comparison Table: Popular Betta Fish…

Black Skirt Tetras (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi), also called Black Widow Tetras, are peaceful, schooling freshwater fish known for their tall, flowing black fins and social nature. They thrive in groups of six or more and need a 20-gallon tank or larger with clean, stable water. These active swimmers are beginner-friendly and do well in planted community setups. In this guide, you’ll…

Swordtails (Xiphophorus hellerii) are colorful, active freshwater fish known for their striking tails, friendly nature, and beginner-friendly care needs. These livebearers are easy to keep, breed readily, and add lively movement to community tanks. In this guide, you’ll learn how to care for Swordtail fish, from setting up their tank to choosing the right food, tank mates, and breeding tips….

The Sparkling Gourami is a peaceful, nano-sized fish with iridescent scales and a quiet charm. In this care guide, you’ll learn how to set up the perfect tank, what to feed them, which tank mates are safe, and whether you can breed them at home. What Is a Sparkling Gourami? The Sparkling Gourami (Trichopsis pumila) comes from the calm, plant-filled…

Oscar fish are the big personalities of the freshwater aquarium world. If you’ve ever seen one follow your finger across the glass or beg for food like a puppy, you know exactly what I mean. They’re smart, curious, and full of attitude in the best way. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the different types of Oscar fish, what…

Black Moor goldfish are one of the most visually unique fancy goldfish varieties. Known for their velvety black color, deep bodies, and protruding telescope eyes, they’re gentle, hardy, and a favorite among aquarists who love slow-moving, ornamental fish. This guide covers everything you need to care for a Black Moor goldfish, including tank setup, diet, water parameters, and common issues….

Fantail goldfish are a classic fancy variety known for their egg-shaped bodies and beautiful split tails. They’re beginner-friendly yet elegant enough to appeal to advanced aquarists. If you’re looking to keep a hardy, ornamental goldfish, fantails are a great choice. This care guide covers everything you need to keep your fantail healthy and happy—from tank setup to feeding and tank…

Shubunkin goldfish are colorful, hardy, and fast-swimming fish that make a great addition to larger aquariums and outdoor ponds. Known for their speckled calico patterns and single tails, they are often compared to koi in appearance but are easier to care for and more affordable. If you’re looking for an active, vibrant goldfish that thrives in groups, this guide will…

Thinking about adding a fancy goldfish to your aquarium? These ornamental varieties—like Oranda, Ranchu, and Fantail aren’t just beautiful; they’re also more delicate than common goldfish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to keep your fancy goldfish healthy, comfortable, and thriving. What Makes Fancy Goldfish ‘Fancy’? Unlike the streamlined body of common or comet goldfish, fancy…

Ranchu goldfish are beloved for their rounded bodies, lack of a dorsal fin, and distinct head growth (wen). Often referred to as the “king of goldfish” in Japan, these peaceful and graceful swimmers require a specific care approach suited to their delicate build. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to care for Ranchu goldfish, from tank size and…

Looking for the perfect fish name? Whether your pet fish is playful, colorful, or mysterious, giving it a fitting name can add personality to your tank. This list of over 300 fish names includes options for every type of aquarium fish—from bettas and goldfish to shrimp and plecos. We’ve also grouped names by species, color, personality, and even pop culture…

Oranda goldfish are one of the most popular fancy goldfish breeds, known for their round bodies, flowing fins, and distinctive head growth called a “wen.” Though elegant in appearance, they are still hardy and beginner-friendly when provided the right environment. Whether you’re considering your first Oranda or upgrading their tank, this guide covers everything you need to know to keep…

Here’s a handpicked list of tropical fish that are perfect for beginners. These species are known for their hardiness, peaceful nature, and vibrant colors plus, they’re all easy to feed and widely available. For each fish below, we’ve included a quick intro and a link to a full care guide if you want to learn more before adding them to…

Setting up your first aquarium? Or just looking for fish that low maintenance in your aquarium? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a beginner or simply want a stress-free tank, choosing low-maintenance fish can make fishkeeping enjoyable and easy. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the 15 easiest fish to take care for aquariums perfect for small tanks, kids, bowls, or…

Pencilfish (Nannostomus species) are peaceful, slender freshwater fish known for their unique shape, calm schooling behavior, and top-dwelling habits. They thrive in planted tanks with soft, slightly acidic water and prefer calm tank mates. Pencilfish are ideal for nano aquariums and do best in groups of six or more. In this care guide, you’ll learn how to set up the…

Scarlet Badis (Dario dario) are one of the smallest and most colorful freshwater fish for nano tanks. Known for their striking red and blue patterns, these shy fish thrive in soft water, heavily planted tanks, and peaceful setups. They’re picky eaters that usually prefer live food, and males can be territorial. This guide covers everything you need to keep your…

The Celestial Pearl Danio (Danio margaritatus) is a tiny, peaceful freshwater fish that brings color and calm energy to any nano tank. Known for their shimmering blue bodies and orange fins, they are perfect for planted aquariums. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know—from tank setup and feeding to breeding and health tips. Quick Facts FeatureDetailsScientific…

Ember Tetras (Hyphessobrycon amandae) are small, peaceful freshwater fish known for their fiery orange color and active schooling behavior. Perfect for nano tanks and planted aquariums, they thrive in soft, warm water with gentle tank mates. These fish are beginner-friendly and add constant movement to any community tank. In this guide, you’ll learn how to set up the ideal tank,…

Chili Rasboras (Boraras brigittae) are tiny, bright red freshwater fish perfect for nano tanks. They grow to just 0.75 inches and are peaceful, making them ideal for planted aquariums with gentle tank mates. These fish thrive in soft, warm water with plenty of plants and dim lighting. In this care guide, you’ll learn how to set up the right tank,…

Tangs, also known as surgeonfish, are some of the most popular saltwater fish in marine aquariums. They are admired for their vibrant colors, active swimming behavior, and algae-grazing abilities, making them both beautiful and beneficial for reef tanks. Native to tropical oceans, these fish vary in size, temperament, and care requirements. While some species are beginner-friendly, others demand expert care…

Rasboras are small, colorful fish that are perfect for peaceful community aquariums. They’re easy to care for, love to swim in groups, and come in many bright colors and patterns. In this beginner-friendly guide, you’ll learn about the most popular rasbora types, how to care for them, and which ones are great for small or large aquariums. Why Rasboras Are…

Guppies are one of the most beginner-friendly freshwater fish you can keep. They’re colorful, active, and easy to care for, making them a great choice for any community tank. In this guide, you’ll learn how to feed, breed, and set up the perfect tank for guppies plus how to keep them healthy long-term. Quick Species Overview CategoryDetailsScientific NamePoecilia reticulataFamilyPoeciliidaeSize1.5 –…

Tetras are among the most beloved fish in the aquarium hobby, and for good reason. These small, vibrant freshwater fish bring life and color to any tank while maintaining a generally peaceful temperament that makes them perfect for community setups. With over 700 species available, tetras offer something for every aquarium enthusiast—from beginners to experienced hobbyists. In this guide, we’ll…

Gouramis are popular freshwater aquarium fish known for their calm swimming style, unique body shape, and ability to thrive in planted and community tanks. While many gourami species are peaceful and beginner-friendly, others grow large or need more space and planning. Because different gourami types vary in size, temperament, and tank requirements, choosing the right species is essential. This page…

Geophagus cichlids need a soft sand substrate, warm water (75–82°F), and a peaceful tank with plenty of space. They are bottom-dwelling, peaceful fish that thrive in groups and enjoy sifting sand for food. Feed them sinking pellets, frozen foods, and occasional vegetables. Proper care includes stable water conditions, suitable tank mates, and room for natural digging behavior. What is a…

The ocean is home to countless beautiful creatures, but few can match the eye-catching charm of butterflyfish. These vibrant, disc-shaped fish bring splashes of color to coral reefs worldwide and have captured the hearts of marine enthusiasts, aquarium hobbyists, and divers alike. With approximately 120 species spread across 10 genera in the family Chaetodontidae, butterflyfish offer an amazing variety of…