Having pet fish can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Fish are known for their beauty, tranquility, and low-maintenance nature, making them an ideal choice for many pet lovers. If you’re considering adding fish to your family, knowing the most popular types of fish for pets is essential.
Let’s explore the top 10 fish species that make great companions and learn all about their care needs.
Most Popular Fishes for Saltwater and Freshwater Aquariums:
Various fish make excellent pets, so it’s important to know what type you’re interested in.
If you’re hunting for a small fish that can be kept in an aquarium, bettas, and gouramis are good options. Tiger Barbs and Oscar are excellent options if you’re looking for a larger fish. If you’re looking for a popular fish for its aquarium-keeping abilities, go for a Goldfish. And if you’re looking for a fish that is easy to care for and popular as a pet, consider a Betta.
Various fish make excellent pets, so it’s important to know what type you’re interested in. Remember the aquarium size before making the purchase, and feed your pet fish regular food and water to keep them healthy and happy!
Below is the list of the top 10 popular types for a pet fish:
1. Betta (Betta splendens)
Betta fish, commonly known as Siamese fighting fish, have become very popular due to their vibrant colors and striking fin displays. Bettas are known for their territorial nature, requiring individual housing to prevent aggression towards other males.
These charismatic fish have various colors and tail variations, making them a beautiful addition to any aquarium. Betta fish thrive in well-maintained tanks with appropriate water conditions, and they enjoy a diet of high-quality betta pellets and occasional live or frozen foods.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: At least 2 gallons, but 5 gallons or more is recommended.
- Water temperature: 76-81 degrees Fahrenheit.
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- Diet: Flakes, pellets, live food
- Compatibility: Peaceful with other similarly sized fish
- Lifespan: 2 – 5 years
Pros and Cons of Owning a Betta Fish:
| Pros |
|---|
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Betta fish are relatively inexpensive fish to own. The average price of a betta fish is between $5 and $30. However, the cost can vary depending on the type of betta fish, its color, and its rarity. For example, a betta fish with a rare color or finnage can cost upwards of $50.
2. Fancy Goldfish (Carassius auratus)
Fancy goldfish, scientifically known as Carassius auratus, has a rich history as ornamental fish. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, each exhibiting unique charm. Fancy goldfish have charming personalities and can recognize their owners, often coming to the front of the aquarium for interaction.
These captivating fish require spacious tanks with excellent filtration to accommodate their size and maintain water quality.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: 20 gallons per fish, with 10 gallons added for every other goldfish.
- Water temperature: 68° to 74° F (20° to 23° C).
- pH: 7.0 to 8.4.
- Diet: Flakes, Frozen food such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia.
- Compatibility: Peaceful with other similarly sized fish
- Lifespan: 5-10 years
Pros and Cons of Owning a Fancy Goldfish:
| Pros |
|---|
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Fancy goldfish are relatively inexpensive fish to own. The average price of a fancy goldfish is between $5 and $50. However, the cost can vary depending on the type of goldfish, its color, and its rarity. For example, a fancy goldfish with a rare color can cost upwards of $100.
3. Mbuna Cichlids (Various genus and species)
Mbuna cichlids contain diverse fish species originating from Lake Malawi in Africa. With their vibrant colors and energetic nature, Mbuna cichlids bring life and vibrancy to aquariums. These cichlids display various patterns and shades, creating stunning displays of aquatic beauty.
Mbuna cichlids thrive in rocky environments with great hiding places. Due to their territorial nature, providing enough space and carefully selecting tank mates is essential. Their intriguing behavior and attractive colorings make them highly sought after by experienced fish keepers.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: Minimum of 40 gallons for a small group of mbuna.
- Water temperature: 75-81°F (24-27°C).
- pH: 7.5-8.5.
- Diet: Algae wafers, live food, and frozen food
- Compatibility: Can be aggressive with other Mbuna cichlids but can be kept with other species of Lake Malawi cichlids
- Lifespan: 8-10 years in captivity
Pros and Cons of Owning a Mbuna Cichlid:
| Pros |
|---|
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Mbuna cichlids are a popular type of fish that can range in price from around $10 to $50. The average price of a Mbuna cichlid is around $25, but you can find them for as low as $10 or as high as $50 or more.
4. Convict Cichlids (Amatitlania nigrofasciata)
Convict cichlids are small yet feisty fish with captivating personalities. These cichlids exhibit black stripes on a silver body, showcasing a striking contrast.
Convict cichlids are highly territorial and will defend their space, displaying fascinating behaviors when establishing dominance. While they require good hiding spots in the aquarium, their interactive nature and intriguing social dynamics make them popular among fish fans.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: 30 gallons or larger
- Water temperature: 79-84°F (26-29°C)
- pH: 6.5-8.0
- Diet: Omnivorous; flake food, live food, frozen food
- Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; can be kept with other cichlids of similar size and temperament
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
Pros and Cons of Owning a Convict Cichlid:
| Pros |
|---|
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Convict cichlids are inexpensive, ranging from $5 to $25. The average price for a convict cichlid is around $15. However, the cost can vary depending on the size of the fish, its color, and its rarity. For example, a rare or unusual convict cichlid may be more expensive than a typical fish.
5. Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris)
Did you know that Ocellaris clownfish, also called Amphiprion ocellaris, is quite famous in the aquarium hobby? They became even more popular after appearing in the movie “Finding Nemo.” These beautiful marine fish have become quite iconic!
These beautiful fish display bright orange bodies adorned with three white stripes. Ocellaris clownfish are known for their amusing behaviors and symbiotic relationship with anemones. They are relatively easy to care for and thrive in well-established saltwater aquariums. Their charm and vibrant appearance bring a touch of the ocean’s magic to your home.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: 30 gallons or larger
- Water temperature: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Diet: Crustaceans, algae, and frozen food
- Compatibility: Peaceful with other clownfish and non-aggressive fish
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
Pros and Cons of Owning an Ocellaris Clownfish:
| Pros |
|---|
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Ocellaris clownfish is a popular saltwater fish that can range in price from around $10 to $50. The average price of an Ocellaris clownfish is around $25, but you can find them for as low as $10 or as high as $50 or more.
6. Oscars (Astronotus ocellatus)
Oscars are impressive and intelligent fish that have gained popularity among aquarium enthusiasts. These large and vibrant cichlids exhibit a range of colors, including orange, red, and black.
Oscars have distinct personalities and can form strong bonds with their owners, recognizing them and eagerly interacting during feeding. Due to their size, Oscars require spacious tanks with proper filtration and regular maintenance.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: 55 gallons or larger for one fish, 30 gallons per additional fish
- Water temperature: 74-81°F (23-27°C)
- pH: 6-8
- Diet: Variety of live, frozen, and flake foods
- Compatibility: Can be aggressive with other Oscars but can be kept with other large, peaceful fish
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
Pros and Cons of Owning Oscars Fish:
| Pros |
|---|
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Oscar fish can cost around $10 to $50, depending on the fish’s size, color, and rarity. You will also need a large tank, filter, and food. The total cost can be around $100 or more.
7. Tiger Barbs (Puntigrus tetrazona)
Tiger barbs are tiny and vibrant fish that captivate onlookers with their striking appearance. These active swimmers display a vivid orange color with black stripes reminiscent of a tiger’s patterns.
Tiger barbs have playful personalities, often gathering near the front of the aquarium and engaging in energetic displays. While they are known to nip fins, keeping them in groups of six or more helps minimize aggressive behavior and provides a visually stunning sight in the aquarium.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: 20-30 gallons or larger
- Water temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-8.0
- Diet: Flake food, pellets, live food, frozen food
- Compatibility: With other active, non-aggressive fish
- Lifespan: 5-7 years
Pros and Cons of Owning Tiger Barbs:
| Pros |
|---|
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Owning Tiger Barbs can range from $5 to $50. You will also need to purchase a tank, filter, and other supplies, adding to the overall cost. Overall, the cost of owning Tiger Barbs can be relatively affordable.
8. Mollies (Poecilia sp.)
Mollies, also members of the Poecilia genus, are versatile fish that adapt well to various aquarium setups. These livebearers are available in different colors, including black, white, and orange. Mollies are popular among beginners due to their ease of care and hardy nature.
They exhibit social behavior, interacting with their tank mates and showing curiosity toward their keepers. Mollies are omnivorous and benefit from a balanced diet that includes high-quality flake food, pellets, and occasional vegetable matter.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: 20-55 gallons
- Water temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
- pH: 7.5-8.5
- Diet: Omnivorous, flake food, live food, frozen food
- Compatibility: Peaceful with other livebearers, can be aggressive with larger fish
- Lifespan: 3-5 years
Pros and Cons of Owning Mollies:
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Mollies are a popular type of fish that can be relatively inexpensive to care for. The average price of a Molly is around $5, but you can find them for as low as $1 or as high as $20 or more. The price of a Molly can be affected by the type of Molly, its size, its color, and its rarity.
9. Fancy Guppies (Poecilia sp.)
Fancy Guppies, belonging to the Poecilia genus, are small and colorful fish perfect for beginners. They are known for their vibrant hues, flowing tails, and intricate patterns. Guppies are lively and easy to care for, making them popular among fish enthusiasts. Their playful nature and striking appearance make them a delight to watch.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: 10 gallons or larger
- Water temperature: 72-78°F (22-25°C)
- pH: 7.0-7.8
- Diet: Flake food, live food, frozen food
- Compatibility: Peaceful with other small fish
- Lifespan: 2-3 years
Pros and Cons of Owning Fancy Guppies:
| Pros |
|---|
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Fancy guppies are relatively inexpensive fish to own. The average price of a fancy guppy is between $5 and $50, depending on the type of guppy, its color, and its rarity. However, you can find them as low as $2 or as high as $100 or more.
10. Freshwater Angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare)
The freshwater angelfish, scientifically known as Pterophyllum scalare, is a beloved choice for many fish lovers. With their distinctive triangular shape and flowing fins, they exude elegance and grace.
Freshwater angelfish are available in various colors, including silver, black, and marbled patterns. They have captivating personalities, often greeting their keepers and exhibiting engaging behaviors. These angelfish are suitable for medium-sized aquariums and thrive in peaceful community setups.
Care requirements:
- Tank size: 20-30 gallons for a single fish, 50+ gallons for a group
- Water temperature: 78-84°F (25-29°C)
- pH: 6.8-7.8
- Diet: Omnivorous, with flake food, pellets, live food, and frozen food
- Compatibility: Angelfish are generally peaceful fish, but they can be territorial towards other angelfish of the same species. They can also be aggressive towards smaller fish.
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
Pros and Cons of Owning Freshwater Angelfish:
| Pros |
|---|
|
| Cons |
|---|
|
Pricing:
Freshwater Angelfish can be a relatively affordable pet to own. The average price of a Freshwater Angelfish is around $15, but you can find them for as low as $5 or as high as $50 or more.
Conclusion:
Finding the perfect pet fish can be difficult, but don’t worry; I’m here to help. This guide will give you all the information you need to make the right choice for your needs. The 10 most popular freshwater fish listed in this article are all popular choices for a reason. They are all relatively easy to care for and come in various colors, shapes, and sizes. So whether you are looking for a peaceful fish to add to your community tank or a colorful fish to show off to your friends, you are sure to find a fish on this list that is perfect for you.
What is the most common pet fish?
The most common pet fish is the betta fish, the Siamese fighting fish. They are popular because they are relatively easy to care for and come in various colors.
What fish is the easiest pet?
Some of the easiest pet fish include betta fish, goldfish, and mollies. These fish are relatively hardy and can tolerate various water conditions.
What is the best type of fish for a pet?
The best type of fish for a pet depends on your needs and preferences. Some factors to consider include the size of your tank, the time you have to care for your fish, and your budget.
Can pet fish live alone?
Yes, some pet fish can live alone. However, other fish are more social and must be kept in groups. It is essential to do your research before choosing a fish to ensure it can live happily alone or in a group.
What is the cheapest type of pet fish?
The cheapest type of pet fish is often the betta fish. They are relatively inexpensive to purchase and care for.
What pet fish grows the fastest?
The pet fish that grows the fastest is the goldfish. Goldfish can grow quite large, so it is essential to have a large tank if you are considering getting one.
Can guppies live with goldfish?
Yes, guppies can live with goldfish. However, it is essential to note that guppies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young. Goldfish are not livebearers, so they cannot eat the guppy fry.
How many types of pet fish are there?
There are over 30,000 fish species worldwide, many of which can be kept as pets. Some of the most popular types of pet fish include betta fish, goldfish, mollies, guppies, tetras, and cichlids.
How long do pet fish live?
The lifespan of a pet fish depends on the species of fish. Some fish, such as betta fish, only live for a few years, while others, such as goldfish, can live for decades.
