The Best Aquarium Fish For Beginners

Choosing aquarium fish can be a daunting task.

Starting an aquarium can be a rewarding experience, but as a beginner, it is important to choose fish that are easy to care for. Not all fish are beginner-friendly, as some require special care or water conditions or are sensitive to changes.

In this article, we will introduce you to the top 10 low-maintenance fish that are perfect for beginners while bringing beauty and life to your tank.

The Best Aquarium Fish for Beginners

**1. Betta Fish (Betta splendens)**

Betta fish are one of the most popular choices for beginner aquarists. They are known for their vivid colours and flowing fins, they are hardy, and can thrive in smaller tanks.

They do not require a large space and can live in as little as 5 gallons of water. However, they are territorial, so it is best to keep them alone or with non-aggressive tank mates.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 24–28°C
Tank size: 5 gallons minimum
Diet: Pellets, flakes, and occasional live food

**2. Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)**

Neon Tetras are small, colourful fishes that are great for beginners. Their bright blue and red stripes make them stand out in any aquarium.

These fish are peaceful and do well in groups, making them ideal for community tanks.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 21–27°C
Tank size: 10 gallons minimum
Diet: Flakes, micro-pellets, and frozen food

**3. Guppies (Poecilia reticulata)**

Guppies are another great choice for beginners. These tiny, colourful fish are easy to care for and breed rapidly.

If you are looking to grow your aquarium population naturally, guppies are the best choice. They thrive in a variety of water conditions and are generally peaceful.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 22–28°C
Tank size: 5 gallons minimum
Diet: Flakes, live, or frozen food

**4. Zebra Danios (Danio rerio)**

Zebra Danios are hardy, active fish that are easy to care for and can adapt to a range of water conditions.

They are excellent for beginners because they are very tolerant of fluctuations in water temperature. Their energetic swimming and striped appearance add a lively touch to your tank.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 25–25°C
Tank size: 10 gallons minimum
Diet: Flakes, micro-pellets, and brine shrimp

**5. Platies (Xiphophorus maculatus)**

Platies are peaceful, low-maintenance fishes that come in a variety of colours, from orange to blue to red.

They are great for community tanks as they get along with most other fish species. Platies are livebearers, so you might find new baby fish in your tank.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 21–28°C
Tank size: 10 gallons minimum
Diet: Flakes, live, or frozen food

**6. Corydoras Catfish (Corydoras spp.)**

Corydoras are small, bottom-dwelling fish that help keep the tank clean by scavenging leftover food. They are peaceful and make great tank mates for other community fish. Corydoras prefer to live in groups, so it is best to keep at least three to five together.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 22–26°C
Tank size: 10 gallons minimum
Diet: Sinking pellets, flakes, and frozen food

**7. Swordtails (Xiphophorus hellerii)**

Swordtails are visually striking with their elongated tail fin, which gives them their name.

They are hardy, peaceful, easy to care for, and come in various colours. Swordtails are also livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young, which can be a fun aspect for beginners.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 22–28°C
Tank size: 15 gallons minimum
Diet: Flakes, live, or frozen food

**8. Cherry Barbs (Puntius titteya)**

Cherry Barbs are colourful, peaceful fish that can adapt to a variety of tank environments. They are low-maintenance and easy to feed, making them perfect for beginners. These small fish do well in groups and will add a splash of red to your aquarium.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 72–82°F
Tank size: 10 gallons minimum
Diet: Flakes, pellets, and frozen food

**9. Mollies (Poecilia sphenops)**

Mollies are hardy fish that can live in both freshwater and saltwater, which makes them quite versatile. They are peaceful and come in a range of colours, including black, white, and orange. Mollies are also livebearers, so you may find baby fish in your tank occasionally.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 22–26°C
Tank size: 10 gallons minimum
Diet: Flakes, vegetable-based pellets, and live food

**10. Goldfish (Carassius auratus)**

Goldfish are one of the most common beginner fish, but they require more space than people often think. These fish can grow quite large, and they thrive in tanks of 20 gallons or more. Goldfish are low-maintenance when kept in proper conditions, and their striking orange colour brightens up any aquarium.

Care Tips

Water temperature: 20–23°C
Tank size: 20 gallons minimum
Diet: Pellets, flakes, and vegetables

Conclusion

Choosing the right fish for your aquarium is key to having a healthy and thriving tank. These low-maintenance fishes are perfect for beginners, offering both beauty and ease of care. Remember to research each species’ specific needs, such as water conditions and tank mates, to ensure your fish stay healthy and happy.