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 but colorful. They are ideal for creating a contrast between larger and smaller 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 groups to reduce stress and encourage their natural schooling behavior.
Anostomid
These fish are quite large. Some can grow to over 12 cm in length , and they come in a variety of colors. Being very independent, they don't usually cause problems with other fish. They don't typically fight or struggle for food. They are ideal for larger aquariums. They appreciate moderate currents and areas with roots or rocks where they can 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 entire day scavenging for leftover food at the bottom of the aquarium. However, being smaller, they require less care and are better suited to smaller aquariums . They are highly adaptable, so they can thrive in almost any type of water and habitat. In fact, many species in this family, such as corydoras , are schooling fish : ideally, keep 5-8 individuals in a fine sand substrate , with water parameters around 22-28°C and a pH of 7-8 . For more in-depth care tips, it's helpful to consult resources on how to keep your fish healthy and happy.
Cichlids
These fish are somewhat more problematic, but they are truly exotic additions to an aquarium. They present a significant drawback: they are omnivorous , feeding on the eggs and even fry of other fish. To keep these fish with other aquarium inhabitants, care must be taken when keeping a pair of cichlids in the same tank, as the cichlids can easily take over. You can control their population by adjusting the water temperature, as excessively cold or warm water will prevent the female from ovulating. For dwarf species like ramirezi , a well-established aquarium with very stable water quality is recommended; for larger cichlids, establish territories and provide hiding places.
Tents
Of course, a fish tank should include carp. These freshwater fish are the most common worldwide. You can find carp in almost any aquarium . Being such a common species, they have developed great resilience to all kinds of environments, making them very versatile. Keep in mind that many carp (like koi and goldfish ) reach considerable sizes and produce a lot of organic matter; they are better suited to 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 for having the worst venom in the world. However, this doesn't mean that these fish (their relatives) 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, despite having a bad reputation, as piranhas are part of this group . Most of these fish are herbivores, but some are not. As long as they are well-fed, they won't cause any problems. Some species, like pacu, grow quite large and require ample tank space ; carefully assess their actual needs before adding them to a community tank.
Petioles
This is a subspecies of carp. These fish are usually smaller. The males are the most colorful, making them perfect for adding a splash of color to your aquarium. They require no special care. Other fish group, such as guppies, platies, mollies, and swordtails , are ideal for beginners . It's recommended to maintain a ratio of 1 male to 2-3 females to reduce bullying, with a tank volume of 54-60 liters and a pH of 7-8.
Rainbow fish
As their name suggests, they are multicolored fish. These fish require no special care and, with the right amount of light, can be quite a sight. They need swimming space and are most effective in schools ; stable water quality and a varied diet will allow them to display their best colors.
Perches
These fish are accustomed to living in very low-oxygen, stagnant waters, making them much more resilient than other colorful fish. They are perfect for beginners because they are beautiful and hardy . If you can't keep one of these fish alive, you're doing something wrong. Ensure efficient filtration and prevent ammonia and nitrite spikes with regular water changes.
Angelfish
These are quite social fish and require several companions of their own species to survive. Otherwise, they will suffer stress. They are very peaceful and are easily disturbed. If disturbed, they will change their behavior and may stop eating or moving. For them to grow and develop properly, a tall aquarium (at least 50 cm of water column), a volume of 250 liters or more , a temperature of 24-30°C , and a pH of 6,0-7,5 are recommended . Avoid keeping them with very small fish such as adult neon tetras, as they may see them as food.
cypriniformes
These fish adapt very well to diverse environments. One of the main differences between them and carp is their skeleton and the type of scales covering their bodies. They are smaller than normal and often have some unique colored "slices ." In this order are danios, barbs, and loaches . The popular zebrafish is a good example for medium-sized aquariums; it is active and schooling.
Ax Fish
These fish get their name from their distinctive axe-blade shape. They live in the upper part of your aquarium . Many of these fish require special care, and they may be among the most difficult freshwater fish to keep. A lid is essential, as they are excellent jumpers , and a gentle water flow with floating plants is necessary for their well-being.
How to choose fish according to aquarium size, parameters and coexistence
Before buying, it's a good idea to do some basic planning to align species, aquarium size, and parameters. This practical guide will help you make an informed decision:
- 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 with 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 on leaves or dig up the substrate. Also, choose inhabitants based on size and temperament compatibility to ensure harmony.
Popular species recommended for community aquariums
In addition to the families described above, there are iconic species that are popular for their beauty , ease of care , and compatibility with other plants . Below is a summary with practical information:
Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)
Considered the number one choice for beginners due to its ease of care and the enormous variety of colors and tails . In its natural habitat, it lives in schools , so it appreciates company. Minimum recommended tank size: 54-60 liters , temperature: 24-27°C , pH 6-7,5 . They reproduce quickly; if you don't want offspring, keep them separated by sex or control the ratio of females to males.
Neon tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)
Their red and blue bands make them spectacular, especially in low light . They are schooling fish (10 or more) and require at least 60 liters , a temperature of 20-26°C , and a pH of 5-6,8 . They are ideal companions for other peaceful characins and calm bottom-dwelling fish.
Platy (Xiphophorus maculatus)
A very sociable and hardy livebearer , perfect for community tanks. Minimum 54-60 liters , temperature 22-28°C , pH 7-8 . Wide variety of colors ; appreciates dense vegetation and an algae- rich diet.
Black molly (Poecilia sphenops)
A highly elegant, all- black selection . Requires stable , slightly alkaline water . Minimum 60-100 liters depending on the variety and temperature ( 24-28°C) , pH 7,2-8,2 . Peaceful with other calm species; diet includes plant matter.
Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)
Famous for its elongated caudal fin in males. Peaceful and hardy, easy to keep in community tanks. Keep 1 male to 2-3 females to avoid disputes between males. Prefers a tank of 60 liters or more , pH 7-8 , and a temperature of 22-28°C.
Corydora paleatus (pepper corydora)
A friendly bottom-dwelling fish that helps with scraps . Should be kept in groups in tanks of 60 liters or more. Temperature 22-28°C , pH 7-8 . Fine sand substrate to protect barbels and good oxygenation.
Discus fish (Symphysodon spp.)
Nicknamed the king of the aquarium for its size and vibrant colors. It requires specific water quality requirements (minimum volume 250 liters , temperature 26-30°C , pH 5-7,8 ). It should be kept in groups with peaceful tank mates that won't stress it.
Betta fish (Betta splendens)
Known as the Siamese fighting fish , it boasts spectacular fins and colors. Males are territorial towards each other; it's best to keep them alone or with very peaceful and compatible species. Minimum 54 liters , temperature 24-30°C , pH 6-7,5 . It thrives in plants and calm areas near the surface.
Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)
Star of the community tank due to its arrow shape and height . Requirements already mentioned: minimum depth 50 cm, 250 liters or more , temperature 24-30 ºC . Avoid very small fish that could be swallowed.
Ramirezi (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
A very peaceful dwarf cichlid that prefers to live in pairs . Minimum 50-60 liters , temperature 24-28 ºC , pH 5-7 . Sensitive to water quality ; requires regular water changes and a varied diet.
Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Classic, very active fish with distinctive stripes. Ideal for beginners and community aquariums. Keep in groups of 8 or more individuals in aquariums of around 100 liters , at a temperature of 20-26°C and a pH of 6-7,8 . They are good jumpers ; use a lid.
Key Requirements for Freshwater Planted Aquariums
If you're drawn to the world of aquascaping , it's a good idea to adjust the aquarium so that fish and plants can thrive 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.
- Strategic 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 rewarding plants are anubias and Java fern (both robust and versatile), while ground cover plants like eleocharis , Monte Carlo , and glossostigma require intense light and nutrient support. Cryptocorynes thrive with moderate lighting and stability, and rotalas shine with good light and adequate micro/macro lighting.
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.