If you are preparing or thinking of setting up a proper aquarium, you have to think first about what kind de peces you are going to introduce him, since the care you have to give depends on them, the conditioning that the tank must have, how beautiful it will be, if the species are competition or get along, etc.
There is a great variety de peces of fresh water in the world that we can choose when building our fish tank. As I said before, depending on the size of the fish, the equipment the fish tank has and some other factors, Some fish will adapt better than others to such situations.. Do you want to know what kind de peces Are they the best to adapt to fish tanks?
Freshwater fish
There are many freshwater fish that cannot live in aquariums that are too small, since they need a larger space to be able to live. Maybe they don't need it, since you provide it with food and it doesn't have to protect or defend itself from any predator, but it is a way of life (a necessity so to speak) that this type has. de peces which means they have to live in a large aquarium.
It is well known that it is almost impossible to classify fish objectively. For tastes, colorsThere are people who like the most striking fish, others who like the most elongated fish, etc. There is a great variety de peces that we can place in our aquariums, however, I will try to give you a list of the best freshwater fish According to its conditions, care that we have to give it, capacity for adaptation and, it will be attempted, that for beauty.
The best fish for your aquarium
As I mentioned before, there are many species de peces of freshwater that do not get along well with each other. That is why you have to keep in mind that although they appear on the list that I am going to give you, it does not mean that all of them can live together. We are talking about species of animals that are used to competing for food, territory, etc. Therefore, we cannot guarantee the good behavior of all fish among themselves..
It is important that before forming our aquarium with the species de peces that we prefer, Let's consult with the seller first from the pet store. You'll probably know which species you can and can't put in the same aquarium without any problems. It's also a good idea to consider the final size of each species, its preferred water parameters (temperature, pH and hardness) and its swimming area (top, middle or bottom) to fill the tank in a balanced way.
killifish
We start with the Killis. These fish can live in many different types of water, That is why they have a great capacity for adaptationThey don't have much competition, so they won't have any problems adapting to other species. de peces. Most predators will ignore this species. They come in a large number of colors to give a touch of life to your aquarium. They are excellent jumpers, so it is recommended to keep the aquarium covered and with dense vegetation where they can take refuge.
Tang fish
These fish are very small in size, but they are colorful. They are ideal for creating a contrast between large and small fish.. These fish can survive in many types of water as long as there are no sudden changes. In community aquariums, it is best to keep them in group to reduce stress and enhance your natural behavior shoal.
Anostomid
These fish are quite large. Some can measure more than 12 cm and they come in various colors. Being very independent fish, they won't cause problems coexisting with others. They don't usually fight or struggle for food. They are ideal for larger aquariums. moderate current and areas with roots or rocks where to feed on biofilm and algae.
Cat fish
Catfish are ideal for medium or large tanks as they will keep them clean. This is because most of the time They spend their time searching for food scraps in the sand at the bottom of the aquarium.. Because there is a large amount de peces cats, you will easily find one that can live well in your fish tank. In this family there are from ancistrus and otocinclus that help with algae, up to larger species that require woods and shelters. Keep the soft substrate to avoid damaging their barbels. In addition, if you want to optimize maintenance, there are alternatives such as another way to change aquarium water which facilitate their conservation.
Callctids
These fish are similar to catfish in their behavior. They spend the whole day rummaging for food scraps in the bottom of the aquarium. However, being smaller in size, They require less care and are more suitable for small aquariums.. They have a great capacity for adaptation, so they can adapt to any type of water and habitat. In fact, many species of this family, such as corydoras sound shoal: the ideal is to maintain 5-8 individuals in substrate of fine sand, with parameters around 22-28 ºC and pH 7-8. To go deeper into care it is useful to consult Tips to make your fish last longer.
Cichlids
These fish are somewhat more troublesome, but they really are exotic for a fish tank. They present a somewhat bigger drawback, and they are omnivores, and they feed on the eggs of other fish, and even their young. To keep these fish with other fish, you have to be careful to have a pair and cichlids in a tank, since they can end up taking over the tank. control the population of these fish with the water temperature, since if it is too cold or too hot the female will not be able to ovulate. In dwarf species such as ramirezi it is appropriate to mature aquarium, with very stable water quality; in larger cichlids, plan territories and shelters.
Tents
Of course, a fish tank must have tents. These freshwater fish are the most common in the world. You can find carp in almost any aquarium. Being such a common species, it has managed to develop a great resistance to all types of environments, making them very versatile. Keep in mind that many carp (such as koi and goldfish) reach considerable sizes and produce a lot of organic load; they are more suitable for ponds or very spacious aquariums with powerful filtration.
Girinoqueílids
other species de peces "cleaners". These fish will keep your tank quite clean, since they have a special organ that they use to adhere to rocks and algae. This in a fish tank, makes the fish stick to the walls and will keep it more or less clean. When young they help with the seaweed, although some species may become territorial when maturing; it is advisable to assess its adult size and coexistence.
Gourami kissing
This species of fish has a particular characteristic. To be able to demonstrate their hierarchy compared to the rest de peces They start “kissing.” They only do this to prove their position, they are not violent, so they will not have problems living with other species or with members of their own species. These fish, if well cared for, can grow to over 25 cm, although it requires quite a bit of effort. They normally reach about 10 cm. They require floating plants and waters calm, and prefer aquariums with height and good oxygenation.
Mastacembellidae
These fish are very easy to keep. They don't require any special care and are highly adaptable, allowing them to live in any environment. However, there is one small problem: these fish are very territorial and may attack or be aggressive toward other fish. This can be solved by purchasing a large rock to place in the fish tank.. In this way, the mastacembelid will occupy the rock and make it its home. If the rest de peces It doesn't bother him, he won't cause any kind of problem. He adds caves and logs and offers protein food quality. Also see why fish need their space to reduce conflicts.
Toxotides
These fish will live in the highest part of the aquarium and will try to hunt the insects that return above the water. These fish do not cause problems with the rest de peces. To catch insects, use a small jet of water under pressure. Consider that many species of toxotida They prefer brackish water, so in freshwater communities are not always viable; do your research before mixing them.
Balloon fish
They are also quite famous due to the fact that it has the worst poison in the world. But nevertheless, This does not mean that these fish (relatives of yours) are poisonous.These fish are not aggressive and can coexist with other peaceful species.
many species of sweet water require a diet with molluscs to wear down their teeth, and they usually need specific aquariums due to his curious behavior.
Serrasalmids
These fish are peaceful although they have a bad reputation, since piranhas are part of this species. Most of these fish are herbivores, but others are not. As long as they are well fed, they will not cause problems. Some species, such as pacu They grow a lot and require large volumes; values very well its real needs before integrating them into a community.
Petioles
This is a subspecies of carp. These fish are usually smaller. The males are the most colorful, making them perfect for adding a touch of color to our aquarium. They don't require any special care. The peciliids include guppy, platy, molly and xipho (swordtail), ideal for BeginnersIt is advisable to maintain a proportion of 1 male for 2-3 females to reduce harassment, with volumes from 54-60 liters and pH 7-8.
Rainbow fish
As their name suggests, they are multi-colored fish. These fish do not require any care and with the right amount of light, these fish can be quite a sight. They require swimming space and they shine in shoal; stable water quality and varied food will allow them to show their best colors.
Perches
These fish are accustomed to living in environments with very low oxygen and stagnant waters, which makes this species much more resistant to other colorful species. These fish are perfect for beginners as they are pretty, and tough.If you can't keep one of these fish alive, you're doing something wrong. efficient filtration and avoid ammonium and nitrite peaks with regular water changes.
Angelfish
These are quite social fish and require several companions of the same species to survive. Otherwise, they will suffer stress. They are very peaceful and often feel uncomfortable at times. If this happens, they will change their behavior and may stop eating or moving. For their growth and development, an aquarium is essential. high (at least 50 cm of water column), volumes from 250 liters, temperature 24-30 ºC and pH 6,0-7,5. Avoid putting them together with very small fish like adult neonates, as they may see them as food.
cypriniformes
These fish adapt very well to various environments. One of the main differences they have with carp is their skeleton and the type of scale that covers their body. They are smaller than normal and usually have some unique colored "slices"In this order they are danios, barbs and loaches. The popular zebra fish It is a good example for medium-sized, active and shoal.
Ax Fish
The name of these fish is given by a characteristic ax blade shape. These fish will live on the top of your aquarium.Many of these fish require some special care, and these fish may be the most difficult freshwater fish to keep. It is a tapa is essential since they are big jumpers, and a gentle flow of water with floating plants for your well-being.
How to choose fish according to aquarium size, parameters and coexistence
Before buying, it is advisable to make a basic planning to align species, aquarium size, and parameters. This practical guide will help you make informed decisions:
- Aquarium size: Many species are recommended from 54-60 liters (60 cm tank). Larger fish or large schools require 100-250 liters or more.
- Water parameters: defines a range of temperature, pH y hardness Compatible with all selected species. Common examples include tetras and corydoras. 20-28 ºC and pH 5,5-7,5; pecilids 22-28 ºC and pH 7-8.
- Swimming areas: choose species of surface (axe, gouramis), media (tetras, rainbow) and fondo (corydoras, loricarids) for an aquarium balanced and dynamic.
- Coexistence: group peaceful fish with peaceful, avoiding mixing aggressive or predators with small species. Create shelters and breaks sight lines to reduce territorial tension.
- Schools: Tetras, danios and corydoras feel safe in groups of 6-10 +Fewer copies usually translates into Stress and worse health.
- Variety feeding: alternative quality dry frozen or live 1-3 times per week, and provides vegetable to herbivorous or omnivorous species.
If your aquarium is planted, prioritize species that don't nibble leaves nor dig up the substrate. In addition, it chooses inhabitants by size compatibility y temperament to ensure harmony.
Popular species recommended for community aquariums
In addition to the families described above, there are iconic species that triumph for their beauty, ease y good coexistenceHere's a review with some practical information:
Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
Considered the number one for beginners for its ease of maintenance and the enormous variety of colors and tailsIn its habitat it lives in benches, so he appreciates company. Recommended minimum 54-60 liters, temperature 24-27 ºC, pH 6-7,5They reproduce quickly; if you don't want offspring, keep them for separate sexes or controls the proportion of females and males.
Neon tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)
Their bands red and blue make them spectacular, especially with dim light. Are from shoal (10 or more) and ask for at least 60 liters, temperature 20-26 ºC and pH 5-6,8Ideal coexistence with others Pacific characins and calm bottom fish.
Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus)
Viviparous very sociable and durable, perfect for community use. Minimal 54-60 liters, temperature 22-28 ºC, pH 7-8. Wide variety of colorations; appreciates dense vegetation and a diet with seaweed.
Black molly (Poecilia sphenops)
Totally selected black of great elegance. Requires water stable and slightly alkaline. Minimum 60-100 liters depending on variety and temperature 24-28 ºC, pH 7,2-8,2. Peaceful with other calm species; diet with plant component.
Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)
Famous for its elongated caudal fin in males. Calm and resilient, easy to raise in community. Keep 1 male for 2-3 females to avoid disputes between males. It prefers from 60 liters, pH 7-8 and temperature 22-28 ºC.
Corydora paleatus (pepper corydora)
Bottom fish friendly that helps with the remains. Must be kept in group in tanks of 60 liters or more. Temperature 22-28 ºC, pH 7-8. Substrate of fine sand to protect chins and much more oxygenation.
Discus fish (Symphysodon spp.)
Nicknamed the king of the aquarium for its bearing and color. Demanding with the water quality (minimum volume 250 liters, temperature 26-30 ºC, pH 5-7,8). It is advisable to keep it in groups and with colleagues peaceful don't stress him out.
Betta fish (Betta splendens)
Called the Siamese fighting man, with spectacular fins and colors. The males are territorial among themselves; better to keep them alone or with very calm and compatible species. Minimum 54 liters, temperature 24-30 ºC, pH 6-7,5. Enjoy Facilities y quiet areas near the surface.
Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)
Community star for his arrow shape and height. Requirements already mentioned: depth minimum 50 cm, from 250 liters, temperature 24-30 ºCAvoid very fish small that can be swallowed.
Ramirezi (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
Dwarf cichlid very calm which you prefer living as a couple. Minimum 50-60 liters, temperature 24-28 ºC, pH 5-7. Sensitive to the water quality; requires regular changes and a varied diet.
Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Very classic asset with characteristic bands. Ideal for Beginners and community. Group of 8 individuals or more, in aquariums of about 100 liters, temperature 20-26 ºC, pH 6-7,8They are good jumpers, use a lid.
Key Requirements for Freshwater Planted Aquariums
If you are attracted to the world of aquascaping, it is advisable to adjust the aquarium so that fish and plants prosper together:
- Lighting: use light from full spectrum with stable photoperiod. Demanding plants require High intensity, others like anubias and Java fern thrive with low-medium.
- Filtration and stability: combines filtration mechanical, biological and chemical. Measure regularly ammonium, nitrite, nitrate and pH to adjust in time.
- Substrate and nutrients: deep-rooted plants (e.g., echinodorus) are grateful nutritious substrates; others (anubias, bucephalandra) look at logs or rocks. Provides subscriber and, if applicable, CO2.
- Selection de peces: prioritizes species plant-friendly (tetras, rasboras, corydoras, otocinclus). Avoid inhabitants who unearth or nibble leaves.
- Thermal compatibility: lines up temperature y pH for plants and fish; for example, neons and corydoras share compatible ranges in waters slightly acidic.
Among the most grateful plants are anubias y java fern (robust and versatile), while upholstery such as eleocharis, montecarlo o glossostigma require bright light and nutritional contribution. The cryptocorynes thrive with lighting moderate and stability, and the rotate them They shine in good light and with adequate micro/macro.
with this list de peces that adapt well, are colorful, do not require special care and, in general, do not cause problems with other fish, I hope I have given you ideas on how you should stock your fish tank. Plan volumes, parameters and coexistence, choose suitable schools and combine swimming areas to achieve a stable, beautiful and easy-to-maintain aquarium in the long term.