We’re used to the idea of horses costing millions of dollars, and even some dog breeds tip over the six-figure mark. However, some exotic animals, including pet fish, can also command eye-watering prices.

Most types of expensive fish are the preserve of elite collectors and are rarely kept privately. This is not only due to their sky-high value, but their specific needs requiring intense maintenance and dedicated (and also highly costly) aquarium systems. However, wealthy and advanced hobbyists are also known to purchase pet fish that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Besides being a scaly status symbol in certain cultures, the appeal of expensive fish lies in their rarity, unusual colors and also uniqueness – much like the valuable gemstones some resemble as they flicker through the water. Pedigree comes into it, too, with certain bloodlines commanding higher prices. And, of course, such exclusivity can even be an investment – so long as you know how to nurture this precious commodity.

Prices vary, with some individuals hitting record highs, but here’s a glimpse of 20 of the most expensive pet fish in the world – with saltwater, freshwater and pond habitats – exceptional specimens will be at least four figures and most considerably higher. However, some more ordinary examples can be picked up much more cheaply.

Here’s a clue: if they’ve got platinum in their name, they’re bound to command very deep pockets, however, the record-breaker is a Kohaku Koi, with one individual selling for $1.8m in 2018.

Most expensive pet fish

1. Platinum arowana

Platinum arowanas have commanded prices as high as a jaw-dropping $400,000, and are considered the most expensive pet fish. This is on account not only of their beauty, but they are also rare – difficult to breed in captivity – and they are believed to bring luck to their owners.

Arowanas are already highly sought-after and this genetic mutation that creates their shimmering silver appearance makes them especially valuable.

2. Peppermint angelfish

These stunning candy-striped saltwater fish are something of a status symbol, being highly expensive, extremely rare and requiring specialist knowledge to keep them healthy.

In the wild they live 400ft below the surface, meaning a trained diver is required to collect them – and then both fish and collector have to decompress carefully. Very few people keep them as pets; they’re more likely to be seen in public aquariums.

3. Grand champion koi

The most expensive koi fish ever sold went for $1.8million. While there are thousands of koi born every year, a very select few are deemed to be sufficiently high quality to be classed as Grand Champions. This means they are show quality, being meticulously bred to produce vibrant, unblemished color patterns and great conformation.

You’re paying for a lifetime of koi breeding knowledge, time, effort and resource into creating a rare and exceptional specimen.

Plus, in Japan, they are associated with good fortune and prosperity.

4. Golden crossback arowana

All arowanas are believed in Asian culture to bring luck and prosperity, and their rarity ups their value even more.

The golden version is cherished for its stunning color – and is also associated with money. As gold relates to wealth, the custom is to keep a golden arowana in the office and a red one (representing happiness) in the home.

5. Polka dot stingray

These striking fish, whose natural habitat is the Brazilian River Xingu, are treasured by aquarists and collectors on account of their rarity and stunning appearance. They can cost up to $100,000.

Watch out, they have a venomous spine, though they are not considered a threat to humans.

6. Masked angelfish

With its contrasting white body and black mask, this is a striking Hawaiian reef fish. It's native deepwater habitat makes collection and breeding extremely tricky, hence the sky-high prices for this sought-after specimen.

Simple, elegant and extremely rare, this stunner could set you back $20,000.

7. Platinum alligator gar

While most alligator gars are olive or brown, the platinum version has a pigmentation disorder (leucism) that gives its bright white color, which is extremely desirable to aquarium enthusiasts as it is exceptionally rare in the wild.

Besides their unique and striking appearance, their size (around 8ft) and slow growth rate also drive up the prices as it takes time and effort to develop them.

8. Conspicuous angelfish

Also known as Rock Beauty, the “conspic” is rare and found only in a limited geographical area. This also drives up the price due to the costs of transporting them from their native remote habitats.

A further expense is their delicate natures – wild-caught specimens are tricky to acclimate and fussy eaters, while those bred in captivity still require significant time and effort. Enthusiasts believe it’s all worth it for the beauty and uniqueness of these angelfish.

9. Flowerhorn Cichlid

The jury’s out on whether these vivid hybrid fish with their bulbous foreheads are cute or just too weird. Their high cost is down to breeders selectively breeding for colors and patterns – not all turn out to be stunning, but those that are rake in the money. Plus, they are believed to be lucky.

Take care, they’re very aggressive towards any other tank mates.

10. Golden basslet

The golden basslet is a gorgeous golden color blend of yellow and tangerine, which can command figures of up to $8,000 for this tiny specimen.

It’s hard to find and collect, being a secretive little character that lives deep down in the ocean, and requires specialist diving techniques.

11. Neptune grouper

Expect to pay around $20,000 for the rarest of the grouper fish, its high cost due to its rarity and that it’s hard to collect from its deep-sea habitat as decompression techniques are essential. They are found on coral reefs 80–250m deep in the Indo-Pacific.

They’re also blessed with stunningly vivid sunset stripes that camouflage perfectly with the bright coral of its native surroundings. They are popular not only with aquarists but also in the Japanese culinary market.

12. Clarion angelfish

Export restrictions and breeding challenges have pushed up the price of this dazzling angelfish, which is popular due to its striking bright orange color with electric blue stripes.

They are a protected species in their native Mexico, and extremely rare.

13. Bladefin basslet

These torpedo-shaped red and white basslets have a prominent blade, hence the name, and a pointy snout. They are found in deep reefs in the western Atlantic.

They are highly prized by specialists thanks to their striking appearance and the difficulty in collecting them. Though only three inches long, they command huge prices, setting you back around $10,000 for one stunning little specimen!

14. Hybrid koi

Highly experienced breeders who are masters in bloodlines and fish conformation drive up the prices of their meticulously bred hybrid kois.

They have been bred specifically for their radiant, symmetrical patterns and perfect shape, with award-winning ancestry.

The breeders have spent years creating such high-quality specimens and the results command a premium.

15. Japanese dragon moray eel

What a stunner the Japanese dragon moray eel is! Their orange body with white and brown spots is mesmerising to look at, and they are strictly for expert handlers as they grow very large and are naturally aggressive.

16. Super red arowana

Like all arowanas, the super red is highly prized, much for its symbolic status, as they are believed to be lucky in Asian culture. This is further accentuated by its fiery red color, which resembles the mythical Chinese dragon.

Collectors love their shimmering scales, streamlined physique and the fact that they are considered a luxury commodity.

17. Wrought iron butterflyfish

Two things certain to drive up the price of pet fish are rarity and beauty, and the wrought-iron butterflyfish ticks both boxes.

They are exclusive to Japanese waters, and therefore are very rare in aquariums outside their homeland due to the logistical challenges of exporting them.

Looks-wise, they are stunners, with a metallic black body with a lattice pattern and yellow trim.

18. Emperor angelfish

Emperor angelfish are strikingly marked – and their captivating patterns undergo enormous change as the juvenile becomes and adult. So much so, that they were once believed to be different species!

The juveniles are dark blue with electric blue and white rings, while the adults are equally vivid in yellow and blue stripes.

Whatever their stage, these are highly sought-after and expensive fish that are challenging to breed in captivity, which drives up the prices for wild-caught specimens from the warm waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

19. Platinum guppy

Platinum is synonymous with wealth and luxury and this unique coloring elevates the humble guppy into a rare and expensive specimen.

It’s a rare and highly sought-after gene strain which requires a lot of time, experience and effort on behalf of breeders to produce these show-quality guppies, with the right platinum coloration, specific metallic appearance and flowing fins.

You can still pick them up relatively cheaply, but if you’re after a show-grade platinum guppy, expect to pay accordingly.

20. Gem tang

Gem tangs are pricey due to their attractive spotty pattern on a jet black body, with yellow accents, alongside the difficulty in collecting and transporting them from their native Mauritius.

They are a prized addition to any saltwater aquarium, being not only beautiful but generally a peaceful tankmate – however they are likely to set you back well into four figures.

Read next: Most expensive pets in the world

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

Picking peaceful fish for a community tank can seem a bit daunting to begin with – after all, with so many different species to choose from, how on earth are you supposed to figure out which fish can live happily with each other?

Thankfully, we've got you covered in this guide with some tranquil species that will live in harmony with one another. Once you've chosen the best fish tank, the list below will help you fill it with calm species that will co-habit well with one another.

All of these beautiful freshwater fish and tropical fish make great pets, however it's worth noting that many of these species thrive in schools, so you'll want to keep at least three to five of each type. And of course, before you add any fish into your community tank, be sure to research each species well to ensure you meet their environmental needs.

Fish for a community tank

1. White cloud mountain minnow

A small and colorful freshwater and coldwater fish, the white cloud mountain minnow is a hardy species that's tranquil in nature and easy to breed. Native to China, Hong Kong and Vietnam, these fish like to be kept in groups of six or more so they can show off their shoaling behaviors.

The white cloud mountain minnow likes to be kept in aquariums that have a large open swimming area in the middle and plenty of plants to the sides and back and while they need to be kept with other peaceful species, avoid housing them with goldfish as the poor white cloud mountain minnow will quickly become their snack of choice!

2. Diamond tetra

The diamond tetra is a peaceful shoaling species that likes to be kept in groups of six or more in a mature community aquarium. Darker decor will show off their gorgeous glittery appearance with these striking fish sure to be the talking point of your tank.

Open swimming spaces mixed with plant cover will keep this species happy and because they're very sensitive to nitrates, keeping the water pristine is a must for their health and wellbeing.

3. Honey gourami

Shy, quiet and calm, the honey gourami are extremely hardy making them very easy to care for. Because of their reserved nature, they like community tanks with lots of plants so they can hide away when they feel the need to be on their own and they do best with a gentle flow rate.

Native to Bangladesh and India, this brightly colored species likes a varied diet and it's best to keep them in groups where females outnumber males to prevent them from being frequently harassed by amorous males looking to spawn.

4. Zebra danio

The zebra danio is an attractive and highly active fish that's incredibly durable and easy to care for. Thriving in a range of different water temperatures, these peaceful fish are prolific breeders who can spawn every few days, so be prepared to have lots of these little creatures on your hands in you add a few zebra danios to your tank.

While they are very chilled out and make a great addition to community tanks, it's worth avoiding pairing them with any species that has long-flowing fins as these high-energy fish are prone to nipping.

5. Pictus catfish

A tranquil, nocturnal fish native to South America, the pictus catfish is an attractive species with black and white spots and whiskers that can run the length of their body. Measuring around five to six inches with a lifespan of between four to eight years, the pictus catfish is a bottom-dwelling species who likes dim lightening and plenty of places that they can hide during the day.

They enjoy shoaling, so keeping them in groups is ideal, and they do best with fish who are calm and won't bother them when they're hiding.

6. Harlequin rasbora

Harlequin rasboras are stunning fish native to Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra and Thailand. Easy to care for, large schools of these fish will create a stunning display in your aquarium, but at the very least they need to be kept in groups of eight to let them engage in the shoaling behaviors they love.

Measuring just 1.75 inches, they need to be kept with species of a similar size to prevent them from being eaten and their home should be well planted to offer them plenty of places to hide.

7. Neon tetra

A chilled out little fish that gets on well with other peaceful species, the vibrant neon tetra hails from the Amazon basin and loves soft, acidic and stable water conditions.

Because they're a shoaling fish, they need to be kept in groups in a well furnished aquarium with plenty of dense vegetation and driftwood, and it's recommended you house them in a 20-gallon tank so that they don't feel too cramped.

8. Cory catfish

Looking for fish that clean the tank? The peaceful, bottom-feeding cory catfish is a great option. These scavengers do a brilliant job of gobbling up any uneaten food that finds its way to the bottom of the tank and their non-aggressive temperament makes them a fantastic choice for community tanks.

Native to South America, they are a pleasant species that's hardy an easy to care for, so if you're looking for a low-maintenance fish who won't cause you any stress, the cory catfish is a great choice.

9. Guppy

One of the most popular freshwater aquarium species, the guppy is a great fish for first-time owners as they have a mild temperament and are easy to care for. Available in a range of different varieties, guppies are highly social fish and must be kept in groups.

Guppies can leap up to seven times the length of their bodies, so you'll want a tank that has a very tight fitting lid so that they don't escape and they prefer large aquariums with lots of plants as they're very active.

10. Bristlenose pleco

Growing to just five inches, the bristlenose pleco is one of the smallest catfish but don't let their petite size fool you – these powerful algae eaters will do a brilliant job of keeping your tank looking pristine. A unique looking creature thanks to their bristled snout, this species has a peaceful and sociable nature that makes them a great addition to community tanks.

These fish do best in tanks that are 20 gallons or larger but they can handle a wide range of water conditions, which makes them a flexible option. Because they're bottom-dwellers, be sure to provide them with plenty of driftwood, plants and caves that they can hide out in during the day as they do most of their feeding at night.

11. Clown loach

An entertaining shoaling fish with a striking orange and black striped body and red fins, the active clown loach is native to waters of Indonesia and has a peaceful nature that enables it to co-exist with a wide range of species.

Energetic and engaging to watch, the clown loach is around 12 inches long and can live for up to 25 years. These fish like to be kept in groups, so having at least four of them is advised and they don't like bright lights, so subdued lightning with plenty of plants, rocks, and caves that they can hide in will be much appreciated.

12. Swordtail

Looking for a beginner-friendly fish? The swordtail is a great choice. Compatible with a range of different environments and tank mates, these livebearing fish are extremely hardy and easy to care for.

Swordtails like fast-flowing habitats with cooler water and higher oxygen levels, plus plenty of dense vegetation and floating plants for hiding and spawning. While peaceful with other fish, males can become aggressive towards each other if there are not enough females, so make sure you keep a 3:1 ratio of females to males to prevent this.

13. Celestial pearl danio

Celestial pearl danios are gorgeous fish that will make a show-stopping addition to your community tank. A shoaling species that needs to be kept in groups of 10 or more, celestial pearl danios is a freshwater fish who can live for up to five years when kept in the right conditions.

In the wild, they live in water that is shallow and rich with vegetation so the water ends up being very clear and pure – recreating this for them in your tank will ensure they stay happy and healthy. Males will fight over females, so keeping more females in the tank will prevent any aggression.

14. Platy

A great tropical fish for beginners, platies are hardy and colorful fish that are easy to breed. Wild platies are found in various countries around the world and inhabit slow-moving waters with plenty of vegetation.

Sociable, livebearing fish, they come in many different varieties and are all known for being peaceful and friendly towards other species with a similar nature. As with other livebearing fish, males have a tendency to pester females, so be sure that females outnumber males to prevent them from fighting amongst themselves.

15. Bala shark

Don't panic – while they contain the word 'shark' in their name thanks to their resemblance to these huge sea creatures, the bala shark isn't actually a true shark and won't grow past 13 inches.

Hailing from Southeast Asia, their appearance makes them an intriguing addition to a community tank and their peaceful nature means they won't cause any issues. A timid shoaling species, they need to be kept in groups and require lots of swimming space.

16. Mollies

Livebearing fish that come in a range of different varieties, mollies are hardy fish that like to be kept in groups. Fantastic plant and algae eaters, these warm water fish are very adaptable and will live for around five years with the correct care.

Peaceful mid-dwellers, they need a tank size of at least 20 gallons as they're known for being active and boisterous – traits that mean they may playfully nip the fins of slow-moving or long-finned species from time to time. However, on the whole they're easygoing and their lively nature means they're a great fish to sit back and observe.

17. Siamese algae eater

Famous for their ability to gobble up algae before it has a chance to make your tank look a mess, the Siamese algae eater is a low-maintenance, freshwater fish who doesn't require a ton of care in order to thrive.

Measuring around seven inches and with a lifespan of 10-12 years, this durable and adaptable species is known for being extremely peaceful and have a reputation for getting on well with many different types of fish.

Just be aware that the Siamese algae eater doesn't possess a swimmer bladder, meaning they must remain constantly in motion. For that reason, you'll want to provide them with lots of places to hide at the bottom of the tank for those times when they need to rest.

18. Cherry barb

Cherry barbs are adaptable fish who can thrive in a range of different water conditions. Named for the way males turn a vibrant red during spawning season, this species tends to be shy but are very easy to manage.

Native to Sri Lanka, they are small at just two inches but with the right care they can live for up to six years. Cherry barbs like to be kept in small schools and because they are quite timid, they appreciate having lots of places they can hide.

19. Pearl gourami

Originating in Southeast Asia, the pearl gourami is an attractive fish that's robust and easy to take care of. Known as a labyrinth fish for the way it can store air in the labyrinth chamber of its first gill, the pearl gourami can be vocal at times making distinct croaking sounds.

A peaceful top to mid dweller, these fish get on well in community tanks provided they're paired with other tranquil species. Pearl gouramis do best in tanks with heavy vegetation, dark substrate and subdued lighting.

20. Peacock gudgeon

A tropical freshwater fish that's endemic to the eastern parts of Papua New Guinea and can also be found in Australia and New Zealand, the beautiful peacock gudgeon is a one of a kind fish that will make a vibrant addition to your community aquarium.

A non-fussy fish that's easy to care for, the peacock gudgeon is small enough to not require a ton of room but a minimum tank size of 15 gallons is required. They like warm water with lots of vegetation, so a heavily aquascaped aquarium is ideal and they're happiest when kept in groups of between six to eight.

Read next: Low-maintenance fish

If you live a busy life but still want to be a pet owner, these low-maintenance fish are well worth considering. While starting an aquarium and keeping it healthy does take some work, there are fish out there that are easier to care for than others – which can make your life relatively hassle-free in the long run.

Regardless of the species you get, there are some tips for taking care of fish that you'll want to bear in mind. No matter how fuss-free your finned friends are, you'll still want to ensure you house them in the right size tank, keep fish who have similar temperaments and requirements together, and keep the tank clean.

If you're new to keeping fish, there are many types of fish for first-time owners that are hardy, adaptable, and fairly easy to care for. You'll be able to sit back and enjoy watching them (when time permits!) but also relax when you're out of the house knowing they're happy and healthy. Here are a few of our favorites...

Low-maintenance fish

1. Betta fish

When it comes to caring for a betta fish, you'll be relieved to hear that as long as you provide your finned friend with the right tank setup, you'll have a relatively low-maintenance fish on your hands.

A great pet for first time fish owners, these colorful characters are curious and playful, and most betta fish will recognize their owners and get excited when they see them approach their tank.

While they are calm and slow moving when housed alone, they can be very aggressive and territorial where other betta fish are concerned so you'll want to avoid keeping them in pairs or groups.

These fish are not particularly active, so they don't need lots of space, they're easy to feed and require minimal daily interaction.

2. Zebrafish

A hardy fish that's simple to house and easy to breed, the zebrafish is one of the most beautiful freshwater fish you can keep as a pet. Their small size means their care needs are straightforward and their social nature makes them a great addition to a tank with other peaceful breeds.

Robust fish that thrive in a range of different water temperatures, zebrafish are prolific breeders so expect to see a steady supply of this fish in your tank! Disease resistant and with a fairly simple diet, you'll find the zebrafish is a very simple little creature to take care of.

3. Standard goldfish

Did you know that there are over 200 different breeds of goldfish? It's true! The standard (or common) goldfish is the most commonly kept freshwater species of fish on the planet and they're a great choice for beginners.

A hardy and resilient little creature, the goldfish is very adaptable and can thrive in a variety of settings. Because they don't require a ton of special care, they're very cost effective and won't take up much of your time.

However, they still need a spacious tank, regular water changes and a balanced diet comprising flakes and pellets.

4. Neon tetra

A colorful tropical fish to brighten up your aquarium, the neon tetra is a peaceful fish who thrives in community tanks with other tranquil species. Quiet yet active, they love swimming in the middle to lower levels of their aquarium but they do need to be kept in odd-numbered groups of five or more to prevent aggression with each other.

They can live up to 10 years with proper care and while they are generally low-maintenance, they are sensitive to water conditions so you'll want to ensure the water is soft and slightly acidic.

5. Harlequin rasbora

Harlequin rasboras are a fantastic choice if you're new to keeping fish and short on time. Hardy, peaceful and able to thrive in a range of different water conditions, they like to be kept in schools of 8-10 and away from aggressive species.

Harlequin rasboras need a tank that's a minimum of 10 gallons in size and they prefer water that is slightly acidic with plenty of plants so they can hide when they want to. Couple this with low water flow and dim lighting and you'll have some very happy fish on your hands.

6. Cory catfish

Looking for fish that clean the tank to make your life easier? Look no further than the cory catfish, a bottom-dwelling species that's constantly scavenging for leftover food, algae and debris.

Peaceful and active, this robust and social fish likes to be kept in groups and enjoys the company of their own kind. Cory catfish can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures and can adapt to a range of tank sizes as long as it's 10 gallons or bigger.

They're not picky eaters and will happily gobble up a range of different foods including flakes, pellets and frozen treats.

7. Guppy

A beginner-friendly fish that's adaptable enough to be able to thrive in a wide range of tank conditions, the guppy is a delight to watch thanks to its lively swimming behavior.

Peaceful and easygoing, they do well in community tanks with other non-aggressive fish species and because they're generally hardy, they don't succumb easily to disease.

Guppies eat a wide variety of foods making them every easy to feed and as long as they're housed in a large tank with good filtration and lots of plants that they can explore and hide in, you'll find they stay happy and healthy.

8. Cherry barb

A great community fish with a lively personality, the cherry barb is typically very peaceful and calm and they love to be kept in groups so they can playfully chase each other.

You'll want a 20-gallon tank minimum for this species with plenty of hiding places in the form of caves and driftwood as cherry barbs tend to be shy. They like gentle currents rather than fast flowing water and they'll readily accept a wide range of foods, making them very easy to care for.

9. Kuhli loach

The kuhli loach is a chilled out fish who can peacefully co-exist with other tranquil community fish. Far from fussy, these non-picky eaters will readily accept all kinds of food and they are generally very hardy.

Excellent scavengers, the kuhli loach is a brilliant choice if you're looking for species that will help you to keep your tank in tip-top condition. A bottom-dwelling fish that enjoys burrowing in the sand, they're very social and enjoy the company of their own kind.

10. White cloud mountain minnow

The white cloud mountain minnow is a tranquil and sociable fish who thrives when kept in groups of at least six or more of their own kind. This docile species makes a great addition to a community tank with other placid fish and they do best in cooler water temperatures.

Small, colorful and easy to care for, they're a hardy fish which makes them a brilliant choice for beginners. White cloud mountain minnows like a mix of open swimming areas as well as planting to the sides and back of their tank, so that's something to keep in mind if you plan on keeping this species.

11. Angelfish

Beginner-friendly and low-maintenance, the beautiful angelfish is hardy, adaptable and generally peaceful, although they can become aggressive and territorial when breeding.

They are best kept in groups with larger, tranquil fish as smaller fish can be viewed as food. A majestic species that requires a tall and large aquarium of at least 55-gallons due to their long finnage, the angelfish likes lots of live plants, rocks and driftwood, as well as soft and smooth substrate.

12. Bolivian cichlids

A peaceful species ideally suited to community tanks, Bolivian cichlids are loved for their vibrant colors and docile temperament. Hailing from South America, they are relatively robust and tolerant of water fluctuations, adapting well to temperatures between 75-82°F.

These fish like to hide, so you'll want to provide them with a sandy substrate they can burrow in as well as caves, rocks and driftwood. Bolivian cichlids will accept a wide range of food and they get on well with species such as tetras and rasboras.

13. Swordtails

Easy to breed and take care of, swordtails are generally placid and active fish with lively personalities. Compatible with a wide range of community fish, they love to explore their environment and their social nature means they enjoy interacting with their tank mates.

It's worth noting that males can be aggressive towards each other if they have to compete for females, so it's worth keeping them in large groups where females well outnumber males.

Due to the males elaborate courtship ritual that involves dancing to attract females, swordtails can be a wonderful species to sit back and observe. Swordtails can tolerate a wide range of water conditions and will readily accept flakes, pellets and frozen treats.

14. Molly

Mollies are small fish found along the Gulf coast of the United States and they come in lots of different varieties. Colorful and relatively fuss-free, mollies are tropical fish with active personalities.

Livebearers who can have up to 100 babies at a time, they're usually very peaceful, however male mollies can become aggressive when they want to mate with females. On the whole, they are robust and adaptable fish who like moderately hard water and warm temperatures between 75-80°F.

15. Platy

Platies are livebearing fish native to east coast of Central America and southern Mexico. These fish are a dream come true if you're looking for a low-maintenance species that's hardy, tolerant of different water conditions and friendly enough to include in a community tank.

Playful and curious, platies come in different varieties and thrive when housed with other peaceful fish such as mollies and tetras. Their fondness for algae makes them a great choice if you're after a species that will help keep your tank clean and they're easy to breed and feed.

16. Bristlenose pleco

Bristlenose plecos are docile fish with a calm nature. They love to snack on algae, so they do a brilliant job of keeping the tank clean, and while they're typically peaceful, they can become territorial when it comes to space and resources.

These bottom-dwellers aren't big swimmers, so they don't tend to interact with fish at other levels of the tank and because they're nocturnal, you'll want to provide them with caves that they can hide out in during the day.

Bristlenose plecos are a fairly hardy species and can adapt to a wide range of environments.

17. Buenos Aires tetra

Buenos Aires tetras are active shoaling fish who like to be kept in groups of at least six. Extremely popular due to how hardy and easy to care for they are, Buenos Aires tetras are generally peaceful but are known to engage in fin-nipping, so it's best to avoid housing them with long-finned fish.

Omnivores who will quite happily munch on a wide variety of foods, they can tolerate a wide range of tank conditions but they are sensitive to ammonia so regularly water changes are recommended.

18. Endler's livebearer

A robust fish that's great if you're time-poor or new to keeping finned friends, the Endler's livebearer is one species you won't get bored of. An active and curious species who loves to zip around their tank and explore every nook and cranny, Endler's livebearers do best when housed with similarly sized, docile fish.

A well decorated tank is a must for this species who love live plants, vegetation and algae – live plants are particularly important as they offer both a food source and a place to hide.

Visually striking and very hardy, they're a great choice if you're after a fuss-free fish to add to your aquarium.

19. Siamese algae eater

The Siamese algae eater does an outstanding job of controlling different types of algae, so they'll make an outstanding member of your clean up crew.

They're also really easy to take care of once you have your aquarium set up to give them the conditions they need to thrive – including soft, sandy substrate, moderate to high water flow and plenty of hiding places in the form of plants and driftwood.

Active and playful, they're peaceful in nature and are compatible with most community fish.

20. Honey gourami

Honey gouramis are robust fish that are very low-maintenance and beginner-friendly. Hardy and adaptable, they thrive in a range of different tank conditions and aren't fussy when it comes to food.

Gentle and docile, they're great community fish but bear in mind that they can be very shy, so they'll appreciate having lots of hiding places that they can sneak off to when they're in need of some peace and quiet.

Looking for fish that clean the tank so that you don't have to spend so much time doing it for yourself? We've got you covered with these algae-eating species who will have your aquarium looking clean and sparkling in no time at all.

If you've ever found yourself wondering why your fish tank is cloudy, chances are that algae is to blame. While algae isn't actually a problem and rarely creates any health issues where your tank is concerned, there's no denying it can turn your aquarium into a mess.

Thankfully, there are dozens of species to choose from when it comes to fish that will help to clean your tank. These freshwater fish make a brilliant clean-up crew regardless of the size of your aquarium – just be sure to do your research to make sure you house fish of similar temperaments together to prevent fighting.

Fish that clean the tank

1. Sailfin Molly

Found in both freshwater and brackish waterways along the east coast of the US, the Sailfin Molly is a popular fish amongst those with home aquariums and for good reason – and their love of algae means they do a phenomenal job of keeping the tank clean.

They typically grow to around 3-4 inches in length, and they're generally peaceful, so they can be kept in community tanks with other non-aggressive species.

2. American Flagfish

Endemic to Florida, the American Flagfish (sometimes also referred to as the Florida Flagfish) is a hardy, algae-eating species named for its colorful markings. A small fish that grows to around 2.5 inches in length, they're omnivores who like to be in aquariums that are densely planted with lots of floating cover.

They're peaceful when not in spawning mode and do best with tank mates who are similar in both temperament and size.

3. Siamese Algae Eater

Looking for an outstanding algae-eating fish? Well, look no further than the Siamese Algae Eater, who has a name well suited to the job. Growing to around 6.5 inches, this species is found throughout Southeast Asia.

Siamese Algae Eaters to be kept either singly or in groups of five or more of their own kind to prevent aggression, and you'll want to make sure you have a tight lid on your aquarium, as they're known for their jumping skills.

4. Dwarf Sucking Catfish

A small and placid fish that has a reputation for doing a great job of controlling brown algae, the Dwarf Sucking Catfish loves being part of a large group. They're a delicate species, so they need to be kept in mature aquariums that are rich in algae and biofilm to ensure their survival.

Dwarf Sucking Catfish are known for being shy, so they need lots of places they can hide, and they don't do well with aggressive tank mates.

5. Platy

A freshwater fish found in Central America, the Platy is a social species who are great for beginners. Hardy, colorful, and easy to breed, Platies like slow-moving habitats with lots of vegetation, and they need hard water as they don't do well in acidic conditions.

It's worth noting that Platies should be kept in tanks where females outnumber males to prevent aggression and reduce the likelihood of males harassing females.

6. Siamese Flying Fox

Often confused with the Siamese Algae Eater, the Siamese Flying Fox is a species in its own right, and they are much more territorial and aggressive than Siamese Algae Eaters.

Reaching lengths of around 16 inches, they need to be kept singly unless you have a large aquarium that's well-furnished with lots of visual barriers. Native to the Indonesian islands of Borneo, Java, and Sumatra, these fish like good water movement and can be boisterous at feeding time.

7. Whiptail Catfish

The Whiptail Catfish is a peaceful species that does well in a wide range of conditions. Found in the upper and middle Amazon, these fish like to be kept in groups in a mature tank where there are plenty of places for them to hide.

Because they're so tranquil, you'll want to avoid housing them with fish that are first in line at feeding time, as the Whiptail Catfish wouldn't be good at competing for food.

8. Corydoras

Often referred to as Corys, these social shoaling fish like to be kept in groups of five or more in a tank that has lots of sandy substrate that they can root around in. Popular due to their easygoing nature, Corys are great bottom-dwelling scavengers who will ensure the floor of your aquarium always looks sparkling.

A breeze to take care of, these catfish come in a range of different species and do best when housed with small to medium-sized fish.

9. Rainbow Shark

Found throughout South-East Asia, the Rainbow Shark is around six inches in length and loves having plenty of rocky caves and live plants that they can use to hide out in.

This species can be very territorial, so if you have a small tank, they need to be kept singly. However, if you have a spacious aquarium, then they'll do just fine in a large group of Rainbow Sharks with other boisterous fish for company.

While the name Rainbow Shark makes them sound predatory, they're not known for being aggressive with smaller fish and tend to leave them be.

10. Bristlenose Pleco

Native to rivers in South America, the peaceful Bristlenose Pleco is a fantastic algae eater who loves to live in a mature tank with a strong water current, lots of hiding places, and plenty of oxygenation.

One of the smallest catfish (they average just five inches in length), the Bristlenose Pleco earned its name from the tentacles around its snout, and its sucker-shaped mouth is brilliant for vacuuming up substrate and keeping your aquarium clean.

11. Reticulated Hillstream Loach

A striking, freshwater fish that loves fast-moving water, the Reticulated Hillstream Loach uses its pelvic fins as suction cups that enable it to attach to smooth rocks and stay put no matter how quickly the water flows over them.

If you want one of these fish in your tank, you'll want to make sure it's high velocity to mimic their natural environment and you'll want lots of flat rocks and hiding places – but don't worry, they'll reward you for all your hard work by munching on all the algae and keeping your tank very clean indeed.

12. Nerite Snails

Okay, busted – it's technically not a fish, but you can't mention tank cleaning and not include Nerite Snails. The Zebra Nerite is particularly striking with its black and gold stripes, and the good news is that any plants you have in your aquarium will be completely safe, as these little beauties like to feast on algae.

Nerite Snails like mature and spacious tanks as well as hard, alkaline water to keep their shells in tip-top condition. You'll want to make sure their tank mates are calm and peaceful, taking care to avoid boisterous fish who may knock them over.

13. Panda Garra

A robust, algae-devouring fish that hails from Myanmar, the Panda Garra loves fast-moving water and high oxygen levels. Relatively social, the Panda Garra likes to be kept in groups of five or more, which you'll want to adhere to, as any less than this and you may find these fish squabble amongst themselves.

Panda Garras like lots of sand or gravel substrate and plenty of cobbles and smooth rocks, plus you'll want to ensure your aquarium has a tight lid, as these little fish are very capable of climbing up the glass. While typically peaceful, they're boisterous at meal times, so avoid pairing them with slow-moving fish.

14. Rosy Barb

Rosy Barbs are popular fish and for good reason – these brightly colored creatures are active enough to keep you entertained while also being incredibly peaceful in nature. Rosy Barbs love being kept in groups of six or more and housed in a spacious aquarium with large open swimming spaces as well as some densely planted areas with fast-growing plants that they can nibble on.

Because of their lively nature, it's best not to house them with shy or quiet fish, and they are prone to nipping, so keep them separate from long-finned fish who are slow-moving.

15. Balloon Molly

Balloon Mollies (named after their very distinctive round body shape) are typically peaceful fish who do well in community tanks with species that have a similar temperament.

A prolific livebearer that can be found in freshwater and saltwater habitats, they love scavenging for leftovers and devouring algae, so they can be a fantastic addition to your tank cleaning crew. Because they love to breed, you'll want to ensure there are two to three females for every male, and they like spacious tanks with plenty of hiding places.

16. Twig Catfish

There's no getting around it – the Twig Catfish is one unique-looking creature! A lover of peaceful aquariums and algae-eating, this species grows to around seven inches in length and likes being housed in tanks where there are lots of shady hiding places.

Shy and tranquil, they're happy in large groups as long as the other fish in the tank all have the same peaceable nature.

17. Dalmatian Molly

A super popular fish amongst home aquarium enthusiasts, the Dalmatian Molly is a lively species that loves to swim around in groups. Hardy fish who dine on plants and algae, they're relatively hardy, although they do prefer warmer water temperatures.

Peaceful mid-dwellers, the Dalmatian Molly typically gets on well with other tranquil, non-fin-nipping fish, and they're relatively resistant to disease.

18. Chinese Algae Eater

The Chinese Algae Eater (also sometimes called the Honey Sucker) is a territorial algae-eating fish that needs a large aquarium with a fast flow rate and plenty of smooth rocks and cobbles.

They should not be housed with peaceful, slow-moving, or long-finned fish, as unfortunately, they have a tendency to harass these species, so ensure tank mates are robust and fast-moving. Chinese Algae Eaters can also squabble amongst themselves, so you'll want to provide them with plenty of visual barriers and hiding places.

19. Clown Pleco

Measuring just 3.5 inches in length, the Clown Pleco is considered a dwarf species that is well-suited to smaller aquariums. They have a long life span where fish are concerned, with many Clown Plecos living for 10 years or more when well cared for.

They are a wood-eating species, so they need lots of bogwood to survive, and they like subdued lighting and shady places they can relax in. Peaceful towards other fish, they should be kept with quiet species for a harmonious living situation.

20. Black Molly

The Black Molly is a tropical, livebearing fish that hails from Central and South America, and while they thrive in freshwater, they can adapt to brackish or even saltwater environments if they have to.

Perfect for community tanks thanks to their peaceful nature, Black Mollies like to have a mix of open swimming spaces coupled with plants and hiding places. While Sailfin Mollies are the best algae eaters when it comes to this group of fish, Black Mollies are no slouches in this department and will do a good job of keeping your tank clean.

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis De Leaver.

If you're seeking out all the ways to make your fish's life better, you're in the right place. The simplicity of fish is one of the best things about adopting them. So much so, they are one of the best low-maintenance pets.

And, more often than not, it’s their low-maintenance nature that often results in the reason we end up with them as our first pets. As long as you pair them with the right tank mates, provide them with the best fish food, and keep the water to the desired temperature, on the surface, their needs are easily met.

But, like with owning any pet, ensuring they have everything they need to thrive is a much greater task. Therefore, to take your fish from the centerpiece to the center of attention, keep reading to discover the easy ways to make your fish’s life better.

20 ways to make your fish’s life better

1. Upgrade their living space

The catalogue of aquariums can be overwhelming at best, and it’s only growing. From kids' colorful starter kits to aesthetically pleasing centerpieces, there is something for everyone, but few will actually serve your fish.

Therefore, to make your fish’s life better, start by understanding the type of fish you own (or plan to own). How big do they get? How much space do they need? And are you considering tank mates?

These questions are a great starting point for finding the best habitat for them. To help you whittle down your choice, we've created a handy guide to the best fish tanks to choose from.

2. Introduce new plant life

Yet to add some greenery to their tank? Plants are a fantastic way to add dimension to what is otherwise a very 2D space.

Whether you opt for the vibrant offerings of artificial plants or the real thing, they both add value to your fish’s habitat and life. For example, the introduction of reeds, moss, and grass allows for exploration and space to hide.

3. Tank-mates

It is easy to assume that company is the best answer for a lone fish. But always do your research before jumping into the deep end.

While some fish friends will benefit from having tank-mates as it can help them bust stress and increase their activity and curiosity, others would rather live life alone with the time and space to thrive.

4. Recreate a natural environment

As tempting as the artificial offers on the market can be, a submerged Spongebob Squarepants or Star Wars figurine can’t offer your fish the same thing a natural environment can.

Therefore, to really enrich your fish's world, introduce real plants, natural substrate, and water movement to simulate their natural habitat and enjoy watching your fish thrive.

5. Introduce hiding places

In the same way we retreat to a dark room after a hard day, fish find great comfort in a safe space to hide.

Ensuring they have various nooks to hide behind will reduce their stress and positively impact their quality of life. This is key for busier tanks, where more than one fish is present. Having space to retreat will reduce the likelihood of unwanted behaviors such as bullying, too.

6. Floating and sinking toys  

Provide your fish with intellectual stimulation with the introduction of toys. From floating mirrors and ping-pong balls to low-lying rocks and logs, these easy additions to their tank can transform their life and entertainment levels.

Discover our expert-led guide to the best fish tank decorations for more inspiration on what's worth your money.

7. Lights, camera, action

The introduction of dynamic lighting enables you to further imitate your fish’s natural environment.

Whilst increasing the aesthetic appeal of your tank, you can support photosynthesis for plant life and recreate day and night cycles to ensure your fish get the rest they need to lead a happy and healthy underworld life.

8. Water movement

Instead of keeping the tank water stagnant, why not inject some movement into their world?

The movement of water promotes greater oxygenation and waste removal without overwhelming your fish and replicates the natural environment. Elevate your fish’s environment with a new filter, water pump, or wave maker. They'll feel right at home!

9. Keep things clean!

If you're wondering why your fish tank is cloudy, it's probably about time you learned how to clean a fish tank.

Tidy tank, tidy mind. A clean tank is critical for happy and healthy fish, so check out the best fish tank cleaners. Clean water promotes plant growth, improves water quality, reduces algae growth, and increases the beauty of the tank.

You can lighten the load by investing in a good quality filter, supportive planting, and avoiding overfeeding.

10. Live fish food

Feeding your fish live food offers nutritional benefits, enrichment, and simulation of natural behaviors.

Switching to live food occasionally adds variety to your fish’s diet, is particularly helpful for the fussier fish, and promotes greater health and growth. But before you add some live food to your basket, remember to research the best fish food.

11. Switch up your substrate

A change to your substrate not only creates an entirely new look and feel to the tank but also offers further opportunities for your fish to experience a more natural environment.

While it can lead to improved nutrients, greater anchoring for plants, and enrichment, planning this process is key to avoiding too much disruption.

12. Good quality water

Stay on top of your water quality to ensure a happy tank environment. This is best achieved with regular partial water changes supported by a good-quality filter. Gradual changes allow you to reset the tank's pH and mineral levels, replacing old dirty water with an equal measure of clean.

The general rule of thumb is once every two weeks to keep your finned friend’s under-the-water home in tip-top condition.

13. Maintain a good pH

Partial water changes help support the maintenance of your aquarium's pH levels (how acid or alkaline it is), but finding the sweet spot is your first and most crucial challenge.

A stable pH prevents stress, disease and supports species-specific needs. The good news is that this can be easily achieved with some filter research to find the right fit to ensure you stay away from any pH spikes throughout the daily fluctuations.

14. Live plants

The presence of live plants in your tank offers many aesthetic advantages while also having a very practical role in the maintenance of a healthy environment and the happiness of your fish.

Live plants offer a safe spot to hide and protection to your spawning fish, whilst naturally absorbing harmful substances, such as nitrates and ammonia.

15. Tame the temperature

It is a common misconception that tropical fish are the only ones with temperature requirements, but maintaining a stable water temperature is key to comfort, metabolic optimisation, and oxygen levels of all fish.

Any sudden spikes can be detrimental to their overall health and well-being. Therefore, before adopting your fish friends, do give lots of thought and consideration to whether you’ve got the right space, time, and set up to make sure they thrive.

16. Location, location, location

Aquariums make wonderful centerpieces in our homes, and while there is technically nothing wrong with this, it is important to consider where they are within our homes to positively impact the fish themselves.

To ensure your fish comes first, their location must be sturdy, shaded, and in a relatively quiet space. Preferably where you and the other members of your family aren't continuously walking past.

It's also worth keeping your tank away from direct sunlight.

17. Free-roaming fish

Amidst the array of aquariums on the market, you can also find systems that promote travel between two or more tanks. These are a fantastic source of enrichment, offering your fish further space to explore.

The interconnected aquariums support safe travel via tunnels and or tubes from one to another, creating a free-roaming effect. This can help widen their world and keep your fish entertained for days on end.

18. Be mindful of algae

Like all good things, algae is great in moderation. A natural food source, filter, and stimulant of beneficial bacteria, complete removal is detrimental to your fish and their environment.

Overgrowth, however, presents a risk to oxygen levels, plant growth, and water clarity. Strike the perfect balance with mindful planting, filters, and regular partial water changes.

19. Find the right filter

Along with the suitable cleaners to keep fish healthy and their tank sparkling, it’s well worth adding a filter.

As a general rule, the water in your tank needs to be able to pass through a filter at least four times an hour. Stuck between two sizes? Aim higher to ensure the best water quality for your fish.

20. Diet

Fish require a varied, high-quality diet to remain happy and healthy in their environment. Understanding the species and necessary nutrients is key to investing in the right kind of flakes, pellets, or live food.

For example, freshwater fish might need different requirements than tropical fish.

Either way, once you’ve found the ideal diet for your fish, avoid overfeeding by only feeding your fish what they can consume in a few minutes.

Read next: Must-visit aquariums in the US

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver.

If you're in the throes of setting up a home aquarium, you may be curious about the types of freshwater fish you can keep as a pet. Often the first fish that springs to mind is a goldfish, but there are so many other wonderful species out there that can be kept as pets.

Fish tend to have a reputation as being an easy pet to look after, but that's not entirely true. While some species are absolutely suited to beginners, you'll still need to choose the best fish tank to house them in as well as read up on appropriate fish food. There's also regular aquarium maintenance to keep on top of, too.

However, if you're ready to start an aquarium and are aware of what you're taking on, there are a whole host of colorful fish to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites for your freshwater tank...

32 types of freshwater fish for pets

1. Goldfish

How long do goldfish live? Typically around 10-15 years, which makes them a fantastic addition to a home aquarium if you're looking for a fish that will have a long life span. The most commonly kept freshwater fish species, goldfish originated from China and there are now more than 200 different breeds. Goldfish are predominantly omnivores and can eat sinking pellets, with live or frozen brine shrimp and krill making a nice treat.

2. Neon tetra

If you're looking for colorful tropical fish to brighten up your aquarium, look no further than the striking neon tetra. Measuring a petite one and a half inches in length, these tiny fish have bright streaks of blue and red and tend to live for around 10 years. They are easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginners, and they have a quiet and calm temperament.

3. Betta fish

They may have a short life span of just three to five years, but when it comes to the best low-maintenance pets, the betta fish is well worth considering. Calm and slow-moving fish that don't require much space, these striking creatures need to live in a tropical fish tank where the temperature is kept between 78-82°F. Male betta fish must be kept separate from other male bettas to prevent fighting, but they can live in community tanks as long as there are no aggressive species or species that the betta may become aggressive towards. Female betta fish can live with other female betta's or in a community of other fish.

4. Zebrafish

Looking for the best types of fish for first-time owners? The zebrafish definitely makes the list. Native to South Asia, the zebrafish (sometimes also called the zebra danio) has a long narrow body that features bold stripes and has a life span of around three to five years. Highly social creatures that like to swim together in a group, the zebra fish likes cooler temperature water (around 70°F) and while they aren't picky eaters, they particularly like fresh vegetables and live (or frozen) invertebrates.

5. Guppy

One of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish species in the world, the guppy is native to South America and the Caribbean and lives for around two to three years with proper care. Highly social, guppies thrive in groups of three or more fish from the same species and those guppies can also be included in a community tank with other fish that have the same peaceful temperament. Guppies should not be kept in the same tank as goldfish as the latter may choose to treat them as a tasty snack!

6. White cloud mountain minnow

A hardy species of fish native to China, the white cloud mountain minnow is a graceful and peaceful community fish that likes to be paired with at least five others of its species. Measuring 1.5 inches in length and living for around three to five years, they're a good fish for beginners and are easy to breed. White cloud mountain minnows do not like heat and need to be kept in water with a temperature below 72°F.

7. Kuhli loach

A small, eel-like freshwater fish, the kuhli loach originated on the island of Java in Indonesia. It's a very peaceful species and does well living in quiet tanks with fish of a similar temperament. A bottom-dwelling fish that will hide in the sand, the kuhli loach is highly social and has a lifespan of around 10 years. They prefer live food and to be fed at night, and because they're bottom-dwellers, remember to choose foods that will sink.

8. GloFish danio

An undemanding fish that thrives in a variety of aquatic conditions, the GloFish danio is a type of zebra danio that's been genetically modified to produce a range of bright, fluorescent colors. Hardy and easy to care for, they're lively and social creatures who do best when kept in groups of five or more. They tolerate a wide range of temperatures and water chemistry, so they're ideal for the novel fish enthusiast.

9. Killifish

Small and colorful, the killifish is closely related to guppies, mollies, and swordtails and originated in North and South America, Africa, and Asia. There are more than 1,200 species of killifish and each varies in both coloration and finnage. It's worth noting that the killifish has a very short lifespan – they burst onto the scene in a blaze of vibrant color but soon wither and die, which is why they are often referred to as 'annual fish' because they tend to live for just one season. In addition to dried food, it's important to provide them with live food as well as worms and insect larvae are their preference.

10. American Flagfish

Named because the male American Flagfish has a body pattern that bears some resemblance to the stars and stripes on the US flag, this fish grows to around three inches in length and can live for up to seven years if kept in the right conditions. With a tendency towards feistiness, they do best when kept with other fast-moving and boisterous fish species, such as the zebra danio. Males can also be quite territorial and have been known to fight one another, so a ratio of one male to three females is recommended.

11. Indian Glassfish

The Indian Glassfish is a schooling fish, which means they prefer to live in groups of five or more. They originated in heavily vegetated, lowland habitats, and because of that, their tank should contain plenty of plant cover and driftwood. They enjoy feasting on flakes, micro pellets, and small frozen foods, and they tend to have a bold, playful, and energetic temperament.

12. Peacock gudgeon

Endemic to the eastern part of Papua New Guinea, the peacock gudgeon is a tropical freshwater fish that can be found in rivers and ponds. With a lifespan of around four to five years, their vibrant coloration and unique appearance make them a wonderful addition to a home aquarium. While they prefer to be kept with six to eight of their own kind, they don't need to be housed in a species-specific tank thanks to their gentle nature.

13. Powder blue dwarf gourami

With their light blue bodies and subtle red hues, the powder blue dwarf gourami is a beautiful fish that will leave you feeling soothed just by looking at it. Growing to around three inches in length, it's a hardy fish with a bold personality and while it's beginner-friendly in lots of ways, it isn't always the most peaceful of community tank mates so do seek advice on this beforehand. Relatively resilient, they'll live for around three to four years with the correct care.

14. Denison barb

An endangered fish that hails from Southern India, the Denison barb grows to around six inches in length and lives for around five years. When it comes to tips for taking care of fish, it's worth noting that the Denison barb requires a larger tank than many species of the same size – that's because they like to engage in fast-paced distance swimming. Peaceful in community tanks with species roughly the same size as them, they need to be kept in schools of half a dozen or more.

15. Koi angelfish

With their long majestic fins and bright colors, it's easy to see why the koi angelfish is such a popular choice for home aquariums. Bred to have colors that resemble the Japanese koi, they grow up to six inches in size and originated in the Amazon areas of Peru and Ecuador.

Calm and placid in nature, they have a generous lifespan of around 10 years when cared for correctly. Koi angelfish thrive in habitats that mimic their natural environment, so when it comes to the best fish tank decorations for this species, be sure to include plenty of plants and driftwood.

16. Agassiz’s dwarf cichlid

Found in the Marañón and Ucayali Rivers in Peru, the Agassiz’s dwarf cichlid is generally a peaceful fish, however, they can become territorial when breeding. For that reason, it's best to keep a single pair or to have one male with several females. That being said, they can still live in a community tank with other species like catfish and small tetras. It's worth bearing in mind that whatever tank you choose must have a tight-fitting lid as these fish can jump.

17. Honey gourami

Native to India and Bangladesh, the honey gourami is a brightly colored and incredibly peaceful fish with an agreeable personality that makes them well suited to community tanks with similar-sized fish. They are very good-natured and because they're not a schooling fish, you don't have to worry about keeping them in groups as they'll swim alone.

18. Boseman's rainbow fish

Prized for its beautiful colors and peaceful demeanor, the Boseman's rainbow fish is a sight to behold. Best kept in groups of six or more of their own kind, they are very adaptable and gentle and will not bother smaller tank mates. Males grow to around four inches and are more colorful than females, sporting a blue front half and an orange back half.

Sadly, they are endangered in the wild due to overfishing and destruction of their natural habitats, but when kept in a home aquarium, they can live for between five to eight years.

19. Red wagtail platy

One of the most popular choices of fish amongst those looking to set up (or add to) a home aquarium, the red wagtail platy is a hardy and energetic species with an easygoing nature. Mid-dwellers who originated in Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras, the red wagtail platy makes for a harmonious tank mate who gets along well with other peaceful species. They typically grow to around two to three inches and live for four years when well cared for.

20. Flowerhorn cichlid

With their distinctive head bump and bold colors, the flowerhorn cichlid is a sight to behold indeed. A large and heavy fish that will certainly be the talking point of your aquarium, the flowerhorn cichlid grows to around 15 inches and tends to have a lifespan of between eight to 12 years.

They are most definitely the 'Marmite fish' with their unique look being something you'll either love or hate, however, in parts of Asia they are highly prized and considered by many to be a symbol of good luck. These fish have a very combative nature, so they do best as a single pet.

21. Black Molly

A popular community aquarium fish, the Black Molly is a tropical fish with a lively nature who loves to swim around in groups. Mollies are very easy to care for and if you're not wanting to invest in a huge tank, they're one of those species where several will fit comfortably into a 20-gallon tank.

Found along the Gulf Coast in the United States, the Black Molly is generally peaceful, although males can sometimes be aggressive when they want to mate. It's worth noting that females give birth to live babies – not eggs – and they can have up to 100 of them at a time.

22. Checkerboard discus

Named because their distinct pattern of stripes resembles a checkerboard, this bright fish has a placid nature and tends to reach around eight inches in length. The checkerboard discus isn't fond of being in a tank that is in a busy area of the home or one that's overly bright – if either of these things occur they'll tend to become shy and hide away. For that reason, it's recommended to keep them in a low-traffic room. These fish are fairly intelligent and are known for being able to recognize their owners, making them a wonderful choice for a companion.

23. Pearl gourami

Native to Southeast Asia, the pearl gourami is not only strikingly attractive but also very easy to take care of. Originating in Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and Thailand, the pearl gourami often surprises novice owners who think they're going crazy when they hear sounds coming from their aquarium. Known as a labyrinth fish, this pearly beauty gulps air on the surface of the water and then holds it in what's known as a labyrinth chamber in their first-gill arch. Like many other labyrinth fish, they can often be heard vocalizing with growls or croaks.

24. Swordtail

A common addition to any freshwater tank, the swordtail is an excellent fish for beginners – not only does it get along with a wide variety of other fish species, but it will thrive in a range of different environments and is easy to care for. It typically grows to around 3-4 inches in length and has a lifespan of around 4-5 years. Hailing from Mexico and Central America, only the male fish possess the unique swordtail, making males and females easy to distinguish if you want to breed them.

25. Marbled hatchetfish

A ray-finned, surface-hugging fish, the marbled hatchetfish needs a well-covered aquarium as they have a propensity to jump. They originated in tropical blackwater environments with plenty of driftwood and vegetation, so it's important to mimic this in your tank. Marbled hatchetfish like gentle water movement and they are very timid shoaling fish who like to congregate in groups, so keeping 10 or more of them in your aquarium is ideal for ensuring they thrive both physically and mentally.

26. Elephant nose fish

Shy and sensitive fish who hail from Africa, the elephant nose fish needs pristine water conditions to thrive, so they're not a great match for beginners who are still learning the ropes when it comes to keeping fish. Timid and peaceful, they are best kept in dimly lit aquariums with plenty of hiding places and you'll also want to include lots of sand.

That's because they use their long trunks to probe for food and not being able to do this causes them a great deal of stress. While gentle with other fish, they can be territorial with their own kind, so it's recommended you only include one in your aquarium to prevent fighting.

27. Bristlenose Plecostomus

The bristlenose plecostomus is a species of catfish with distinctive tentacles around their snout. While most catfish reach lengths of around 20 inches, the bristlenose plecostomus is much smaller at just five inches and has a lifespan of around 10 years. Known for being fantastic little vacuum cleaners, if you want a tank that looks spick and span, this is definitely a species worth considering. Easy to care for and with a unique appearance, the bristlenose plecostomus is a fun addition to any aquarium.

28. Electric Blue Jack Dempsey

Originating in Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico, the original Jack Dempsey likes to hang out in slow-moving rivers and swampy areas. The Electric Blue Jack Dempsey has been tank-bred to achieve its striking colors and less aggressive temperament. Because of that, it can typically be kept alongside other fish in a community tank that is too large to be viewed as a snack. They like plenty of rocky caves and other places to hide as well as a mixture of medium water movement and calmer areas they can rest in.

29. Heckel’s thread-finned acara

Hailing from the northern parts of the Amazon basin, the heckel’s thread-finned acara likes to live in aquariums that are biologically mature with lots of space. They enjoy large expanses of substrate that they can sift through for food and plenty of hiding spaces and visual barriers. It's best to obtain a group of Heckel’s thread-finned acara as juveniles and release them all into the tank at once as this will allow them to form a natural hierarchy and prevent any aggression.

30. Cherry barb

Native to Sri Lanka, the cherry barb has a vibrant red color and is a great choice for beginners. They are small at just two inches in length and tend to live for around five years. Because they're so tiny, they are typically shy around bigger fish – particularly if those other fish are aggressive – so it's recommended that they're kept in a group and that you exercise caution when selecting tank mates. The cherry barb likes to hide, so if you decide to have a community tank, introduce them first so that they can settle in before you add other species to the mix.

31. Harlequin rasbora

At under two inches in length but with a relatively hardy lifespan of six years, the docile and peace-loving harlequin rasbora makes a wonderful addition to a smaller-sized aquarium. A top to mid-dwelling species, they're native to Malaysia, Singapore, Sumatra, and Southern Thailand where they live in streams. Shoaling fish that should be kept in schools of eight or more, the harlequin rasbora will co-exist happily with any fish that's not large or predatory – tetras, danios, and dwarf gouramis are all excellent choices.

32. Pygmy cory

A teeny-tiny catfish that grows to just over an inch in length, the diminutive pygmy cory isn't suitable for a community tank due to its small size but will live happily with others of the same species. Because they're shoaling fish, you'll want to have at least 10 of them and provide a sandy substrate to protect their sensory barbels. They also like to hide in shady spots, so adding in some driftwood and plants with broad leaves can be a great way to provide them with this.

Read next: How to improve your fish's life. Fancy something different? Here are 32 aquarium pets that aren’t fish!

Aquariums in the United States are full of life, color, and beauty. But the best aquariums don't just put some of the world's rarest, most intriguing, and majestical water-loving creatures within touching distance. The top-rated aquariums go one step further and help educate, conduct research into our oceans, and help rehabilitate injured animals, too.

For example, many aquariums we've listed in our guide are non-profit organizations that focus on conservation and research. While others run community outreach programs designed to inspire and educate on how to protect the planet's largest ecosystem for today, tomorrow, and beyond.

Maybe you already marvel at the many different types of saltwater fish you keep at home in one of the best fish tanks. Or perhaps you're the proud parent of one or more reptiles you can keep as pets. If you (or the kids) love our friends from the watery world, you'll want to dive into the many magical must-see aquariums the US has to offer – as there's so much to see, learn, and explore.

32 must-see aquariums in the United States

1. New England Aquarium, Massachusetts

From African Penguins to California Sea Lions, there are thousands of under-the-water animals to marvel at in this nonprofit research and conservation organization.

The only problem you’ll have is deciding what aquatic animals you want to see first. Will it be the African Penguins? The green sea turtles? Or the Giant Pacific Octopus?

2. Oregon Coast Aquarium, Oregon

For more than three decades, this Oregon-based non-profit has been a health advocate for marine wildlife.

Along with having ambassador animals (which help educate the public on their wild counterparts through amphitheater talks and presentations), a nature play area, and exhibits, there is a range of birds, fish, and marine mammals, like sea otters, that call this Oregon-based aquarium home.

3. Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, Florida

There is so much to see and learn at this Florida-based laboratory and aquarium. To start, you can see a whole host of magical marine creatures up close and personal, thanks to its 135,000-gallon shark habitat where seahorses, sea jellies, otters, and sea turtles thrive.

Then, once you’re done admiring the underwater world behind glass, you can learn from scientists, educators, and stewards all about the challenges the coral reef is facing at the Mote’s Coral Research Exhibit. Or gain a better understanding of the local marine environment at the Mote’s Marine Science Education & Outreach Center.

4. Alaska SeaLife Centre, Alaska

Located in Seward, there’s a range of marine animals, birds, fish, and invertebrates to become acquainted with at Alaska SeaLife Centre. For example, there are sea lions, ringed seals, spotted seals and tufted puffins, coho salmon, spot prawns (the largest shrimp in Alaska), and moon jellies.

Plus, if you’re keen to explore further, you can buy additional tickets for close-up encounters like the Marine Mammal Encounter, the Octopus Encounter, the Puffin Encounter, and the Animal Care Sneak Peek – as the center is known for conducting research and animal rescue.

5. SeaWorld San Diego, California

From rides that take their inspiration from the underwater world to seasonal events, SeaWorld San Diego isn’t just your average theme park.

Located just off Mission Bay, you can learn about conservation efforts worldwide in Explorer’s Reef before seeing lots of majestic marine life in HD at Dolphin Point, Turtle Reef, and Shark Encounter. In the latter exhibit, you’ll be able to walk through a 57-foot underwater tunnel to spot sharks swimming to their heart’s content. So it's a dream for most animal lovers.

6. Mystic Aquarium, Connecticut

Want to see Beluga Whales? Keen to spot African Penguins? Plan on making 2025 the year you see California Sea Lions? If you answered ‘yes’ to all of the above then Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut is the place to be.

You can be within touching distance of sharks, rays, and invertebrates and take a seat while you immerse yourself in VR experiences. The aquarium’s Ocean Solutions gallery is a must-visit too, because you’ll learn how to protect our oceans today, tomorrow, and beyond.

7. Birch Aquarium at Scripps, San Diego

Say ‘hello’ to the world’s smallest penguins at Birch Aquarium at Scripps’ Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins exhibit. This inspirational installment allows you to see the remarkable journey penguins take from hatchlings to adults. It's too cute for words.

While the Seadragons & Seahorses exhibit will leave you loving these aquatic animals a whole load more as you’ll be able to marvel at weedy seadragons, different species of seahorses, pipefish, shrimpfish, and more!

8. Texas State Aquarium, Texas

From exhibits and exclusive encounters to presentations, educational programs, and immersive experiences, it would probably be quicker to list all the things you can’t do at this Texas-based non-profit.

Go for the day and spot reef sharks by looking through a 68-foot-long acrylic window to get a clear view of a massive Spanish galleon shipwreck. Get one step closer to dolphins at Dolphin Bay and if you’re curious about baby seahorses or jellyfish, the Aquatic Nursery will take you on a tour of these magical creatures at different life stages.

9. The Maui Ocean Centre, Hawaii

The aquatic world is your oyster at Hawaii’s Maui Ocean Centre. If a cage-free dive with sharks, hundreds of fish, and stingrays sounds like your kinda thing, or taking an immersive yoga class while surrounded by the underwater world is where you find your solace, this one-of-a-kind animal attraction is the destination to go.

For example, the site’s Turtle Lagoon exhibit mimics the sea creature’s natural surroundings,and the Open Ocean exhibit holds 18,000 gallons of saltwater and plays host to more than 50 species of fish, including various sharks and rays. The Living Reef exhibit is a showcase of live Pacific corals. It's pure magic!

10. The Dallas World Aquarium, Texas

If you’re based in Texas, this wildlife wonder is well worth a look in – and we don’t say this lightly. Why?

Well, first up the aquarium has its own rainforest that’s built over three floors, so you can spot sleepy sloths, birds taking flight and Saki monkeys getting up to no good. Secondly, the aquarium also has its own cenote, where you can view lizards, snakes, and stingrays along with hummingbirds and pelicans.

And thirdly? If you need another excuse to visit, once you head outdoors, you can see the South Africa exhibit which plays home to panther chameleons, geckos and tomato frogs.

11. Newport Aquarium, Kentucky

If you’re looking for an underwater world, where you can spot playful penguins, rare white alligators, and stingrays, look no further than Newport Aquarium.

Opened in 1999, this animal attraction has the world’s first suspended rope Shark Bridge, where you can walk above a tank of sharks (if you dare). Another stand-out point? It also plays home to Hatching Harbor where you can surround yourself in a 25-foot-long habitat where you’ll spot baby animals growing every day. How cute!

12. Seattle Aquarium, Washington

You essentially get to explore three worlds of watery wonder for the price of one at The Seattle Aquarium. One ticket will get you access to the campus’ trio of exhibits including Pier 59 which has octopus, jellies, and touch pools, Pier 60 which has penguins, sea otters, and birds and the new Ocean Pavillion which houses the Coral Reef, Discovery Lab, and One Ocean Hall.

13. Sea Life Orlando, Florida

Who wouldn’t want to visit the world’s largest family of aquariums? From axolotls and sting rays to turtles and sharks, there is a jam-packed schedule of animals to see here in Florida.

You can take behind-the-scenes tours, get up close and personal with reptiles at the Turtle Experience, and attend talks to widen your knowledge and feedings. Other not-to-be-missed highlights include a 360-degree Ocean Tunnel, a Jelly Wall, and a Coastal Rockpool.

14. New York Aquarium, Brooklyn

No trip to Coney Island would be complete without a visit to the New York Aquarium. There are more than 8,000 animals and 500 species to discover at this Brooklyn-based must-see including southern sea otters which have just arrived, a zebra shark, northern seahorses, and African Penguins.

Throughout April to October, you can spend some time with sea lions, penguins, and more at the site’s Wild Encounter offering. While the Aquatheater lets you watch sea lions in all their glory.

15. Aquarium of the Bay, California

Located at Pier 39, there are more than 24,000 marine animals to revel in at California’s Aquarium of the Bay, including sharks, rays, and octopuses.

You can also take a closer look at these beautiful creatures going about their day thanks to the range of walk-through tunnel exhibits and touch pools. While the virtual science lessons about marine wildlife and conservation mean you can broaden your under-the-water knowledge at the same time, too.

16. Monterey Bay Aquarium, California 

The whole idea behind this Bay-based aquarium in California is that you can get a diver’s eye view of the underwater world – and without having to get wet.

Dive Into The Deep, which is one of the latest exhibitions to open up at the aquarium and you’ll get to spot transparent jellies glowing, colorful crabs crawling, and fanged fish drifting along. Elsewhere, you can lose yourself in the magical world of African Penguins, sea otters, and sharks and enjoy live feedings and shows.

17. National Aquarium, Maryland

Based in Maryland? Then you’ll want to make a trip to The National Aquarium which was formerly known as The Baltimore Aquarium.

From American Bullfrogs to Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins, the tourist hot spot has a living collection of more than 20,000 animals. Back in 2008, The Australia: Wild Extremes exhibit scooped the crown for the ‘Best Exhibit’ award from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums – and you can still marvel at this award-winning display today.

You should also make time to see the rooftop rainforest, the aquarium’s re-creation of an Indo-Pacific reef, and the multi-story shark tank.

18. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Tennessee

Open 365 days of the year, aquatic animal fans can enjoy the magic of our oceans all year round at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. And thankfully, there are bundles of animals to see so every time you go you’ll spot something different.

Highlights include giant sea turtles, 12-foot sharks, and penguins galore. There are also underwater tunnels, which put jellyfish and stingrays within touching distance, and you can make a trip across Shark Lagoon on a glass bottom boat.

19. Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta

Introducing the biggest aquarium in the USA. Containing a massive 6.3 million gallons of water, this humungous aquarium is home to whale sharks (the largest fish species in the ocean), the American alligator, manta rays, blue-spotted stingray, and the adorable orange, and loads of colorful tropical fish like the much-loved clown fish.

If you’re feeling like you want to get closer to the animal action, you can also dive with gentle giants, make ever-lasting memories at the Penguin Encounter and reserve a seat at a sea lion presentation.

20. Tennessee Aquarium, Tennessee

Home to more than 12,000 animals, Tennessee Aquarium is located on the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga and it has one aim: to connect humans with nature in a bid to empower them to make more informed decisions about water and wildlife.

You can learn all about Gentoo penguins, spot giant sea turtles and watch amphibians like the blue poison dart frog go about their business. If you intend to do even more ‘looking’, the aquarium has even got an IMAX on site, which means you can watch movies every animal lover should see, like T. Rex and Animal Kingdom on repeat!

21. Aquarium of the Pacific, California

You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to aquariums in California. But the Aquarium of the Pacific is well worth visiting if you’re in the Long Beach area – and for a multitude of reasons.

We say this because it includes more than 100 exhibits spanning 19 major habitats. So you can spend your day (or days!) reveling at the Shark Lagoon, feast your eyes on the Penguin Habitat, and discover the pure magic the underwater world has to offer at the Tropical Pacific Gallery, where you can spot more than a 1,000 colorful fish.

22. Shedd Aquarium, Illinois

Ready to experience what life looks like underwater? Then look no further than Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, which is overflowing with aquatic habitats.

You can explore the site's Wild Reef exhibit which will leave you in awe of the colorful coral reef and the many sharks, mandarin dragonets, and spotted rays that call this place home.

While the Polar Play Zone is an underwater viewing area where you can see otters dive, dolphins splash and penguins drift through the water.

23. The Florida Aquarium, Florida

Located in downtown Tampa, this 250,000 sq.ft aquarium will enable you to dive into another world from tree level to sea level.

Travel through the Wetlands of Florida exhibit where you’ll ​​spot river otters, roseate spoonbills, and white ibises then take a Journey to Madagascar to feast your eyes on Tomato Frogs and ring-tailed Lemurs and move on to Stingray Beach where you can touch the slippery wing tip of a cownose ray.

Other highlights include the Coral Reef exhibit, which, with over 500,000 gallons of water, is the aquarium’s largest habitat. Check out the No Bone Zone, where you can admire sea stars, anemones, sea cucumbers, and more.

24. Audubon Aquarium, Louisiana

A watery world of awe awaits in New Orleans thanks to the Audubon Aquarium which not only plays host to an underwater kingdom but an insectarium and zoo, too.

So, whether you (or the kids) are keen on spotting leopards, you’re eager to see butterflies or they really have their heart set on watching penguins swim, dive, feed, and waddle – you can do it all at this Louisiana-based spot.

25. OdySea Aquarium, Arizona

Hailed as the largest aquarium in Arizona, OdySea is not to be missed. Gape at paddlefish, spot tropical birds, and watch stingrays go about their day as they float through the water.

While you are here, those aged eight and above come face-to-face with African Penguins at the Penguin Encounter, meet Squidney, the aquarium’s beloved two-toed sloth, and don an OdySea Aquarium wetsuit and SeaTrek helmet to take a swim on the wild side underwater with fish, sting rays and even a shark!

26. The Adventure Aquarium, New Jersey

As its name suggests, adventure is at the heart of this aquarium in New Jersey. From up-close and personal animal encounters like snorkeling with sharks and rays or carefully tong-feeding sea turtles, The Adventure Aquarium is best known for having the world’s longest V-shaped Shark Bridge, along with the state’s longest Shark Tunnel.

Sharks aside, this aquarium is home to hippos, green and loggerhead sea turtles, two species of warm-weather penguin, a Giant Pacific Octopus, and moon jellyfish.

27. Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Nebraska

Animal lovers will adore whiling away their days at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Nebraska as there’s something for everyone.

Thrillseekers will love the rides, like the aerial tram that will take you from the Butterfly and Insect Pavilion to the sea lion viewing exhibit. While those keen to get stuck in will love being able to marvel at aquatic creatures at Sting Ray Beach.

There’s also an Alaskan Adventure, which is a splash ground with unique water features and you can feed giraffes their favorite food at Giraffe Encounter.

28. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Ohio

Having been open for just under 100 years, you can see pretty much all that the amazing animal kingdom has to offer at this Ohio-based zoo and aquarium.

You might come to discover the animals that call the different bodies of water their home, like the majestical Florida Manatee, the nocturnal zebra sharks or the fascinating Humboldt Penguins, but you’ll end up staying (or coming back) for the giraffes, and polar bears and vervet monkeys.

29. Shark Reef Aquarium, Nevada

Taking a trip to the Las Vegas strip? Then armchair aquarists will want to immerse themselves in the world at Shark Reef Aquarium which has more than 2,000 animals to look at. This includes sea turtles, a rare golden crocodile, piranhas, and a 1.3 million-gallon shark exhibit.

You can also explore the South Pacific virtually thanks to the site’s on-screen marine biologist who will take you on an immersive journey to spot humpback whales, tiger sharks and great hammerheads in the Bahamas.

30. Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Housing an 80,000 sq foot aquarium, the Myrtle Beach attraction was the global brand’s first-ever venture into the wonderful world of water, and today, it’s Ripley’s second biggest aquarium in America.

If you take a visit, you’ll be mesmerized by Ornate Cowfish, Potbelly Seahorses, and American Lobsters at the Ocean Wonders exhibit. The site’s Tropical Rainforest will enable you to come face-to-face with amphibians, like axolotls, and some of the best reptile pets, like iguanas.

31. Miami Seaquarium, Florida

Founded in 1955, this 38-acre oceanarium is one of the oldest to exist in the USA.

Located on the island of Virginia Key, this bigger-than-average aquarium mimics an ocean environment which means it has the space to home to larger aquatic creatures, like whales, orcas, and dolphins.

In addition to the rescue and rehabilitation efforts, the oceanarium is known and loved for its education and outreach programs, along with its once-in-a-lifetime experiences, like being able to dip with dolphins or take a swim with a seal.

32. EPCOT's SeaBase Aquarium

If you prefer to mix your aquariums with amusement parks, then big kids and little ones will want to venture to this theme park at the Walt Disney World Resort in Bay Lake, Florida.

Along with boarding a ‘clam mobile’ in the hopes of spotting Nemo and his friends, you can surround yourself with marine life at the on-site SeaBase Aquarium, which is one of the largest man-made ocean environments on the planet. From sea turtles, reef fish, rays, and sharks – there are bundles to see.

Keen to find out more about the amazing aquatic world? Discover the best aquarium pets that aren't fish. Or if you're hoping to add some finned friends to your own aquarium, read up on how to choose the right pet fish.

32 types of saltwater fish for your aquarium

A saltwater aquarium is an exotic and striking addition to the home. But more than a striking piece of furniture, it’s a living habitat that is both enthralling and engaging thanks to the vibrant creatures within.

Bear in mind that a saltwater aquarium is more expensive and difficult to set up and maintain than freshwater even if you chose one of the best fish tanks. Some of the fish, too, can fetch eye-watering prices. And with good reason, for a large proportion of them are vividly stunning, with a fantastic array of colors – which is due to the camouflage required in their natural habitat of the reef, where everything is bright and colorful.

Beginners need to choose their marine fish carefully, and it’s best to seek expert advice as regards factors such as compatibility of tank-mates, their temperaments, and the size of tank required. Some fish are naturally more hardy and resilient than others, and better suited to a novice aquarist.

Besides fish, you can add corals, anemones, starfish, shrimp, and other saltwater dwellers to mimic their natural oceanic environment. The world’s your oyster, so they say...

Let’s take a look at a range of types of saltwater aquarium fish, both common and rare, affordable and budget-busting.

1. Ocellaris clownfish

This classic saltwater aquarium fish – popularized by the movie Finding Nemo – is a hardy type and easy to keep. As they are territorial they don’t need a massive aquarium, though they do love an anemone, having a symbiotic relationship with them. Bear in mind that females can be quite aggressive.

Very similar to the true percula clownfish, with the differences being thinner black lines, 11 (rather than 10) dorsal spines, and darker eyes.

Also known as anemonefish, false percula clownfish and common clownfish; scientific name A. ocellaris.

Maximum length: 4.3 inches.

Wild habitat: Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Great Barrier Reef, Southeast Asia, Japan and Indo-Malaysian region.

2. Yellow coral goby

A peaceful little goby, without scales, which enjoys living in corals – their ventral fins form a unique suction cup that enables them to “sit” on the coral in strong currents. Their secret weapon is a toxic slime they secrete to ward off predators, but it doesn’t put off all their enemies so they should only be kept with small, non-aggressive tank-mates.

Also known as the yellow clown goby; the scientific name gobiodon okinawae.

Maximum length: 1.2 inches

Wild habitat: Indonesia and the Philippines.

3. Yellow watchman goby

A rather grumpy-looking goby thanks to its downturned mouth, these fish enjoy burrowing in the sand at the bottom of the tank and can feed off the substrate as well as the water column.

They are territorial and can be aggressive. They should ideally be kept with pistol shrimp.

Also known as the sulphur goby and yellow prawn goby; the scientific name cryptocentrus cinctus.

Maximum length: 4 inches

Wild habitat: Western Pacific.

4. Yellowtail damselfish

A peaceful and hardy fish with stunningly vibrant looks. Some damsels can be aggressive but not this one – though it does require multiple hiding places and fellow chilled-out tankmates.

Also known as the yellowtail demoiselle; the scientific name chrysiptera parasema.

Maximum length: 2 inches

Wild habitat: Indonesia.

5. Pyjama cardinal

A shy but hardy fish that needs to be kept in a group of at least three, without aggressive tankmates, and requires adequate hiding places. As cute as its name implies, dressed in spotty, stripy pajamas.

Also known as the spotted cardinalfish; scientific name sphaeramia nematoptera.

Maximum length: 3.5 inches

Wild habitat: Indonesia

6. Blue/green reef chromis

These delightful flashes of turquoise typically live in shoals (one male to five females) though they can pick on each other, especially dominant males. They require plenty of hiding spots, such as coral.

Scientific name chromis viridis.

Maximum length: 3.1 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, Red Sea, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

7. Firefish goby

These torpedo-shaped dartfish may look flashy but they are peaceful and easily feel threatened by larger, more aggressive fish, needing suitable places to hide. Their characteristic behavior is to dart around and suddenly dive for cover.

Also known as fire dartfish and fire goby; scientific name nemateleotris magnifica.

Maximum length: 3.5 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

8. Longnose hawkfish

A funky-looking marine fish, with its ray fins and pointy nose. It will eat anything it can fit into its mouth – and has the mildly terrifying ability to smash larger prey on rocks to make it bite-size. Consequently, they can be threatening, especially to crabs, shrimps, and smaller fish, and are known for hopping out of tanks, so make sure yours is covered.

Scientific name oxycirrhites typus.

Maximum length: 5.1 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Red Sea, Mexican Gulf, West Atlantic.

9. Bicolor blenny

Bicolor blennies are easy to look after and thrive on their own. They have a fun appearance, looking like they are wearing a different top and trousers. They are grazers, who enjoy nibbling on algae from rocks and stones.

Scientific name ecsenius bicolor.

Maximum length: 4.3 inches

Wild habitat: Indo-Pacific: Maldives to the Phoenix Islands, north to the Ryukyu Islands, south to the southern Great Barrier Reef; throughout Micronesia.

10. Lawnmower blenny

If you struggle to control the algae in your tank, the appealingly named lawnmower blenny is the one to keep your aquarium as clean and tidy as a croquet lawn. They eat large amounts of algae from rocks, especially filamentous and green-haired algae.

These mottled fish with captivating big eyes don’t love their own kind, however, often being very aggressive to other blennies.

Also known as jeweled blenny and algae blenny; scientific name salarius fasciatus.

Maximum length: 5.5 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, The Red Sea, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

11. Royal gramma

Despite its vivid, “look-at-me” appearance, the two-tone royal gramma is a peaceful, gentle fish with a tendency to hide away. However, they can fight with their own kind and gender, so do well kept solo. And beware, this is a fish that loves to jump!

Also known as fairy basslet; scientific name gramma loreto.

Maximum length: 3.9 inches

Wild habitat: Mexican Gulf, West Atlantic

12. Coral beauty angelfish

A dwarf angelfish boasting an impressive color palette, with royal blue heads and fins framing their iridescent orangey-yellow body pattern. Visually stunning, easy to care for, and a mesmerizing spectacle, these are a favorite with both beginner and expert aquarists.

Also known as the two-spined angel and dusky angelfish; scientific name centropyge bispinosa.

Maximum length: 3.9 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

13. Six line wrasse

A stunning stripy fish, their bold looks match their aggressive tendencies. They can be threatening to other fish, including their own species. Handy in ridding your tank of flatworm and pyramid snails, which they are known to feed on. They sleep in nooks with a protective mucus coat to put predators off their scent. Another nifty skill is their ability to jump clean out of your tank. Lively, distinctive, and fun, and an expert in pest control.

Also known as pyjama wrasse; scientific name psuedocheilinus hexataenia.

Maximum length: 3.1 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Red Sea, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

14. Rusty angelfish

A dwarf angelfish that is best kept as the only one of its kind in the tank. Their rusty orange body is punctuated with black bars and vibrant blue accents on its fins. A fan of algae, they also like to nip at corals and are constantly on the move.

Scientific name centropyge ferrugata.

Maximum length 3.9 inches

Wild habitat: Australia, Japan, Indonesia.

15. Flashback Dottyback

Stunning, but highly territorial. If you want a gentler version of the psychedelic colors, then the more docile royal gramma would be a better fit. This is a very energetic and aggressive little number, adept at jumping out of its tank and fierce in the face of newcomers. Tank mates need to be robust and provided with plenty of spots to hide away from the marauding dotty back.

Also known as diadem dottyback; scientific name pictichromis diadema.

Maximum length: 2.4 inches

Wild habitat: Indonesia, Central/West Pacific.

16. Yellow Wrasse

Brightly colored and affordable, the yellow wrasse is a useful fish as it combats pyramid snails and flatworms. While they are active swimmers, they do require a deep sandy bed to burrow into, either when scared or to sleep. They are peaceful and can live alongside other species of marine fish, including other wrasses.

Also known as golden wrasse, golden rainbowfish, and canary wrasse; scientific name halichoeres chrysus.

Maximum length: 5.5 inches

Wild habitat: Australia, Indonesia.

17. Chalk Bass

These little charmers with their orange bodies and electric blue stripes (in varying degrees of color) tend to be on the skittish side, especially when settling into a tank, so need plenty of hiding places.

Also known as Caribbean blue bass; scientific name serranus tortugarum.

Maximum length: 3.1 inches

Wild habitat: Mexican Gulf, West Atlantic.

18. Bicolor Angelfish

With their bold contrasting colors, these dwarf angelfish are a striking addition to your marine tank – though they thrive best as the only species. They are moderately aggressive, with territorial males guarding their harem.

Also known as Pacific rock beauty, oriole angelfish, blue and gold angel; scientific name centropyge bicolor.

Maximum length: 3.1 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Indonesia.

19. Diamond watchman goby

A glimmering silver goby, dashed and dotted with blue and orange, whose number one task is to keep your sand bed sparkling clean. They filter the sand through their gills for the food it contains. A companionable fish, these gobies thrive in a male/female pair.

Also known as orange-dashed goby, orange spotted glider goby; scientific name valenciennea puellaris.

Maximum length: 6.7 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

20. Threadfin butterflyfish

A keen swimmer, this vibrant fish with striking markings is a peaceful tank mate that tends to coexist harmoniously with other species.

Also known as threadfin coralfish, cross-stripe butterfly; scientific name chaetodon auriga.

Maximum length: 9.1 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean, Australia, Japan, Red Sea, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

21. True percula clownfish

These popular fish like to live in male/female pairs – though can be very territorial towards their own kind and gender. This clownfish is tricky to tell apart from the false percula (or ocellaris), but it has a thicker black outline to its stripes and more orange in the eyes, as well as 10 (rather than 11) dorsal stripes.

Also known as eastern clownfish; the scientific name amphiprion percula.

Maximum length: 4.3 inches

Wild habitat: Australia, Indonesia.

22. Peppermint angelfish

These delightful little angelfish are highly prized as aquarium fish, with an exorbitant price tag beyond the realms of most aquarists. A single fish has sold for $30,000. Found in the wild at significant depths so requires decompression treatment to transition to the surface.

Scientific name: centropyge boylei.

Maximum length: 2.8 inches

Wild habitat: East Pacific.

23. Sleeper banded goby

A sand-sifting goby cleans the substrate through its gills, including getting rid of certain bacteria, and also grazes on algae. A peaceful fish that should be kept alongside similarly non-aggressive tank mates.

Also known as white-spotted goby, brown-barred goby, bullet goby; scientific name amblygobius phalaena.

Maximum length: 5.9 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, Australia, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

24. Kole tang

An algae eater with funky looks and specialized bristle-like teeth for grazing on rocks. They have a gold band around their eyes. Also known as spotted surgeonfish, yellow-eyed surgeonfish, and goldring surgeonfish; scientific name ctenochaetus strigosus.

Maximum length: 5.5 inches

Wild habitat: Endemic to Hawaii, also Australia, Indonesia, East Pacific, and Central/West Pacific.

25. Flame hawkfish

A striking red fish with a black dorsal stripe, these fun characters have a goofy look with their bug eyes able to move independently of each other. Not mad keen on swimming, preferring to hang out on rocks and coral.

Scientific name neocirrhites armatus.

Maximum length: 3.5 inches

Wild habitat: Australia, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

26. Volitan lionfish

These frilly fish are peaceful in character but highly venomous – the toxins from their spines are similar to a bee sting, but much stronger and can be fatal. Big, athletic swimmers who require plenty of space to move around. Despite their poisonous spines, they are a friendly species that can learn to recognize their handlers.

Also known as butterfly cod, turkey fish; scientific name pterois volitans.

Maximum length: 15 inches

Wild habitat: Australia, Japan, Indonesia.

27. Blue tang

A fairly large marine fish for the aquarium with a royal blue body, yellow tail, and black palette design on their body.

A star on the silver screen, as Dory in the Disney/Pixar movie Finding Nemo.

Also known as palette surgeonfish, regal tang, indo-pacific bluetang; scientific name paracanthurus hepatus.

Maximum length: 12.2 inches

Wild habitat: throughout the Indo-Pacific.

28. Gem tang

This exotically marked fish is one of the most expensive to buy as a prized specimen – up to $3,000 – though they are fairly hardy and adapt well to aquarium life. Can be aggressive to other tangs.

Also known as spotted tang, jeweled tang, Mauritian tang; scientific name zebrasoma gemmatum.

Maximum length: 8.7 inches

Wild habitat: East Indian Ocean, West Indian Ocean,.

29. Ornate wrasse

A stunner for a large aquarium, with its distinctive iridescent markings, though the females and males vary, from blood red with green swirls to metallic green with turquoise, and red faces. They are also called the Christmas wrasse, though whether this is due to their green and red markings or their origins around Christmas Island is debatable.

Also known as Christmas wrasse, pinkface wrasse; scientific name thalassoma pavo.

Maximum length: 9.8 inches

Wild habitat: Mediterranean Sea, West Indian Ocean.

30. Japanese angelfish

A rare dwarf angelfish, with a fabulously exotic appearance. Their sunset-colored body turns a deep blue/purple body towards the tail and is marked with electric blue spots, with a yellow caudal fin. A crown jewel in any aquarium, with a price tag to match.

Also known as Japanese pygmy angelfish; the scientific name centroypyge interruptus.

Maximum length: 5.9 inches

Wild habitat: Japan, Hawaii, Taiwan.

31. Yellow tang

A vibrant and eye-catching fish with a graceful, active swimming motion, this is a popular resident of many a marine aquarium. Their peak spawning happens around a full moon. Also known as lemon sailfin, somber surgeonfish; scientific name zebrasoma flavescens.

Maximum length: 7.9 inches

Wild habitat: Central/West Pacific.

32. Pink spot goby

A burrowing goby that loves to dig holes in a sandy substrate. They form a symbiotic relationship with the alpheid shrimp and hang out in the safety of their burrows together (with the goby keeping watch). Watch out, these gobies love to jump!

Also known as pink speckled shrimp goby; scientific name cryptocentrus leptocephalus.

Maximum length: 4.7 inches

Wild habitat: Australia, Japan, Indonesia, East Pacific, Central/West Pacific.

Filled with live plants, substrates, and glimmering schools of fish, a perfectly curated aquarium is an awe-inspiring art form. But the best non-fish aquarium pets prove that our finned friends aren't the only additions that can thrive in a tank.

From African Dwarf frogs and Red-clawed Crabs to Male Painted Turtles and Fire-bellied Toads. There’s a whole host of animals out there to get up close and personal with behind a glass screen.

Maybe you’ve invested in one of the best fish tanks and you’re looking for some more water-loving pals to add to your tiny tribe. Or perhaps you’re looking for aquarium additions you can keep in a one-species-only tank? Either way, we've done all the research and found a number of semi and fully aquatic animals you’ll want to add to your tank – and there’s not a fin in sight!

32 non-fish aquarium pets

1. Freshwater Snail 

Freshwater Snails are a great addition to most aquatic ecosystems. That’s because these algae-loving, waste-clearing ‘janitors’ glide from side to side, clearing unwanted debris from your tank as they go.

They’ll devour extra fish food, hoover up dead organisms, and clear away decaying plants. Living for up to two to three years, freshwater snails are compatible with most pretty tropical fish and invertebrates.

2. Red-Clawed Crabs

Small, colorful, and a lover of habitats with sandy substrates, Red-clawed Crabs are some of the best aquarium pets that aren’t fish.

Also known as Mangrove Crabs or Red Crabs, these clawed cleaners will fertilize the soil with their droppings, consume plants, and clear up leaf litter. So not only are they fascinating to watch, but they’ll earn their keep!

Just know that Red-clawed Crabs aren’t fully aquatic. So they’ll need an area where they can climb out of water, along with plenty of sloping rocks.

3. Palaemon Paludosus

Also referred to as the Ghost Shrimp, these translucent invertebrates thrive in freshwater aquariums and are a great addition to your under-the-water world for more reasons than one.

For starters, they’ll hoover up food left by fish with no additional feeding required. And if there’s no other alternative, they’ll also eat algae. Plus, Ghost Shrimp aren’t too picky about pH levels or alkalinity. Meaning? These little beauties are easy to keep alive.

4. Painted Turtles

How cute are these little shell-clad sensations? If you’re after something other than a finned friend for your aquarium, Painted Turtles could be the captivating creature you’ve been searching for.

Belonging to the group of reptiles known as Chelonians (also called Testudines), these turtles need some TLC when it comes to making them feel at home. Along with a basking spot out of the water, to watch their water-based world go by, they’ll need UVB lighting to help them survive and water temperatures should be maintained at 75-80F. Interested in finding out more about what do pet turtles eat? Be sure to check out an expert-approved pet turtle care guide.

5. African Dwarf frogs

Known for being one of the best small pets for compact homes, African Dwarf Frogs make for a great pet that isn’t a cat, dog, or fish.

Mixing just as well with similar-sized fish as they do with their own species, these fully aquatic additions can reach up to 6.4 cm in size and live for five to seven years on average. These tiny jumpers are social creatures, so do best in groups of two or more.

6. Freshwater Crayfish

Despite having ‘fish’ in their name, Freshwater Crayfish are a type of crustacean, related to lobsters, crabs, and shrimp.

Especially active at night, these midnight foragers will live in harmony with common Goldfish, Neon Tetras, Swordtails, and Mollies. Food-wise, they’ll eat water weeds, roots, and leaves and they can live for up to four years.

7. Red-eared Slider Turtle

Just like Painted Turtles, Red-eared Slider Turtles are another type of semi-aquatic reptile that is worth opening your home (and heart) for.

These strong swimmers are the most popular pet turtles in the US and like their hard-shelled counterparts, they’ll need a basking spot in their aquarium so they can dry off and enjoy life with their four feet firmly on the ground. Another amazing turtle fact? When cared for properly, Red-eared Sliders can live for more than 30 years.

8. Fire-Bellied Toad

These stand-out jumpers do best in a semi-aquatic environment. This means one-half of the tank should be filled with water, deep enough for these beautifully colored amphibians to swim in. The other half should be shallow enough so they can climb out and dry off.

9. Sea Monkey 

Another great small pet, Sea Monkeys, or Brine Shrimp, grows to half an inch to 3/4 of an inch in length and these cute little creations can thrive in aquariums for up to five years. It’s true, these small swimmers are low-maintenance pets to keep. But as is the case with any aquatic animal, you’ll need to keep the water clean and well-oxygenated.

10. Chinese Fire-Bellied newt

Native to Japan and China, as their name suggests, Chinese Fire-Bellied Newts, have a bright red or orange belly with a dark upper body and they require just a small enclosure to double up as their natural semi-aquatic habitat. These little beauties can make good pets, especially for beginners because they’re hardy, active and relatively easy to care for.

11. Octopus

If you have enough space, time and TLC to give, then an Octopus could be the marvelous marine creature your aquarium has been missing. However, these sea animals, with their rounded bodies and big, beautiful eyes aren’t the easiest to look after.

To really care for these fascinating eight-legged marine mollusks, you’ll need to ensure they’ve got enough space to swim, lots of live rock, a bed of sand, good quality water and live food.

12. Vampire Crabs

Captivating to look at, semi-terrestrial Vampire Crabs appreciate access to land and water. Whether it’s rocks or gravel you provide or sand and pebbles, these omnivores will spend sitting, hiding under rocks, or emerging to eat when the light fades.

Just be aware: to prevent fights from occurring, experts say Vampire Crabs should be kept in species-only tanks.

13. Cherry Shrimp

A popular choice for beginner aquarists, Cherry Shrimp are easy to breed, will devour algae (so this means less cleaning for you) and they’ll tolerate a huge range of water parameters.

These peaceful, sociable, and plant-loving crustaceans are best kept with small fish, as larger aquarium additions will consider them food.

14. Assassin Snails 

More formally referred to as Clea Helena, Assassin Snails go by their ‘hit-snail’ status because of their ability to help control pest snails (like pond snails) without the use of chemicals.

Relatively low maintenance, these under-the-water gastropod mollusks will work harder than you do, eating uneaten food and other debris.

15. Bamboo Shrimp

Bamboo Shrimp aren’t the easiest of shrimps to breed, so if space is tight in your aquarium, these crustaceans are well worth considering.

Bamboo Shrimp need stable water conditions, and they do best in well-established aquariums, like one of the best tropical fish tanks, that have lots of plants and places to hide.

16. Mystery Snails 

More informally known as an Apple Snail, or Gold Inca Snails, these healthy diners will feed on ordinary fish food and waste, making these algae eaters a popular choice in many aquariums.

These peaceful tank pals can live for up to four years and are known (and loved) for their bright-colored golden-clad shells.

17. Hermit Crabs

Living up to the grand old age of 15, Hermit Crabs will help you stay on top of growing algae levels in your tank.

While their constant shuffling and crawling will help debris and dirt get sucked up into your filtration system. Despite their name, Hermit Crabs are social creatures and in the wild, they live in colonies of 100 or more.

18. Pom-Pom Crab

Along with sandy substrates, plants and a warm water temperature, these aquatic animals are fully-fledged members of the clean-up crew.

They love a clean and stable environment and will do their utmost to keep their tank tidy. Whether it’s plant debris, algae or frozen food, these little shufflers will be happy.

19. Pistol Shrimp

Requiring a tank with at least 10 gallons of water, Pistol Shrimp like to live in clusters for protection. These chatty crustaceans take the crown when it comes to being one of the loudest animals in the ocean.

Often called Snapping Shrimp, they’re famed for their ability to stun prey with air bubbles and to generate sounds of up to 218 decibels — which is louder than a gunshot. They can also regrow limbs. So, if you ask us, they’ll make for an interesting addition to at-home aquariums.

20. Water Snakes

Often overlooked, non-venomous Water Snakes can be a fascinating pet for at-home aquariums due to the captivating behaviors they exhibit. Feeding on frogs, seeking out salamanders, and munching on Minnows, Water Snakes are more commonly found in the wild in Texas, Florida Ontario, and Quebec in Canada.

Ensure this reptile has the right temperature, humidity, and lighting, along with a large enough enclosure to explore, hide, and exercise, and they can live for 10 years or more.

21. Fiddler Crabs 

Fiddler Crabs are another semi-aquatic crustacean to add to your tank. To help mimic their natural habitat, you’ll need to ensure there is some dry land, preferably sand, and one of the best filters and heaters to keep the water clean and at a stable temperature between 74 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

22. Serpent Starfish

Adding interest to any at-home saltwater aquarium, the Serpent Starfish will need plenty of nooks and crannies so they can hide during the day and come out to play at night. These hardy creatures are speedy scavengers and love a diet of decaying matter.

23. Harlequin Shrimp

Water quality and a decent amount of hiding spots are very important when it comes to looking after Harlequin Shrimps. Living up to seven years, these beautifully decorated shellfish are mild-tempered and shy. Usually found in pairs, these night owls prefer to hide during the day and feed at night.

24. Ramshorn Snails 

If you’re after another algae eater, look no further than a Ramshorn Snail. These aquatic animals are around one inch in diameter so will thrive in any size aquarium, big or small. But here’s a head’s up: these underwater creatures can multiply readily, laying around a dozen eggs at a time.

25. Clams

Falling into the shellfish category, clams aren’t there just to be eaten! They can be very beneficial to aquariums because some species can live for more than 30 years and they can help to clear your tank, through the process of natural filtration.

26. Stinkpot Musk Turtles

If you couldn’t tell already, we’re big fans of turtles. These hard-shelled beauties are relatively small, as they grow no bigger than five inches, meaning they’re easy to keep compared to their larger counterparts. Another reason for their popularity is the fact Common Musk Turtles can thrive in captivity for up to 50 years.

27. Coral

Despite what you might have thought, Coral is considered to be a live animal — yes, really! Adding coral to your aquarium can help beautify your space along with providing shelter for fish and maintaining water quality.

28. Amano Shrimp 

Now you might be thinking the Amano Shrimp looks very similar to a Ghost Shrimp. And on the surface, they do have many similarities. But once you dig a bit deeper, there are also a handful of differences.

For starters, the Amano Shrimp isn’t completely transparent. Secondly, Amano Shrimp are larger in size, reaching up to two inches long. Plus, an Amano Shrimp can change color based on the food they eat.

29. Bladder Snail

Peaceful and often used as scavengers, the humble Bladder Snail (nicknamed after its air-filled bubble which it fills up with air for long underwater dives) will prosper if they’re provided with adequate filtration and enough space so they can glide to their heart’s content.

30. Malaysian trumpet snails

Staying under two inches, if well looked after, a Malaysian Trumpet Snail can flourish in freshwater tanks for up to 20 years! Keep them in tanks with non-aggressive tank mates and these harmless critters will go about their day peacefully.

31. Nerite Snails

Commonly called the Zebra Nerite or the Spotted Nerite, this freshwater snail joins our list for its super algae-eating qualities and love for decaying matter.

Living for up to two years, these spiral-shaped snails, which sometimes have black spots, will feel right at home in hard water, with a pH level between 6.5 and 8.5 and a temperature between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

32. Axolotl

At first glance, you might be wondering: what is an Axolotl and do they make good pets? And it’s a good question. These amphibians are illegal to own in some US states, including California, Maine, New Jersey, and Washington D.C, for one main reason: the threat they pose to the already struggling native salamander species.

But that said, these generally calm creatures are easy to care for. Provide them with the right tank mates, temperature, and water conditions and they can have a 15-year lifespan.

If you enjoyed these suggestions of non-fish aquarium pets, check out our guide to the best exotic pets you can keep at home

The best types of fish for first-time owners are fuss-free, easy to maintain, and hardy. But just because they might be a dream to look after, it doesn’t mean they’re dull.

In fact, many of the top-finned friends for newbie aquarists are quite the opposite. Packed full of color, character, and intrigue, these easy-to-look-after under-the-water creatures still require all the basic usual fish care — like the best fish food, a strict cleaning schedule, and enough space to swim around in the best fish tanks.

They’ll also need the right water temperature, pH level, and filtration system. But apart from that, these aquatic additions won’t ask for much.

So, if this is your first time owning an aquarium, dive into our guide to the best fish for first-time pet parents.

32 best types of fish for first-time owners

1. Slender Danios

Easy to look after? Tick. Inexpensive to keep? Sure. Able to tolerate most water temperatures? Absolutely. Slender Danios, or Zebrafish as they’re often called, are a hardy addition to any tank, they are especially suitable for most beginner aquarists. Famed for their striped zebra-like appearance, while away the days by watching these active fish swim from one side of the tank to the other.

2. Guppy 

Whether you know the humble Guppy by its various other nicknames, like its more formal name, Poecilia Reticulata, Million Fish, or Rainbow Fish, this freshwater species is one of the most well known tropical fish in the world. Their stunning and colorful appearance might have you thinking these pets are hard to keep. But their mild temperament, ability to get along with other similar-sized fish, and power to thrive in lower temperatures say otherwise.

3. Danio Margaritatus

How beautiful is this Danio Margaritatus? Another fish that goes by various names — from the Galaxy Rasbora or Microrasbora — this active finned friend is a great option for first-time fish owners. Small in size, not too fussy about pH levels, and preferring cooler temperatures, these hardy additions are practically fuss-free. So they will feel right at home in one of the best small fish tanks. Their only vice? They are schooling fish, so feel most comfortable in a group of six or more.

4. Golden dwarf Barbs

Generally measuring in at around three inches in size, colorful, and coming with a shy persona, Golden Dwarf Barbs are peaceful fish who love living in shoals. These tiny little gems thrive in well-filtered water and love nothing more than being surrounded by plants and their own species. Feed them the best fish food money can buy, like flakes or micropellets, and they’ll love sharing your home with you.

5. Neon Tetras

Looking for a colorful species to add to your aquarium? Then look no further than the aptly named Neon Tetra. These pretty tropical fish are one of the easiest at-home aquarium fish to keep, but they do get lonely. Another type of schooling fish, Neon Tetras thrive when they’re roaming the waters with at least six or more of the same species. Providing you enrich their aquatic environment with the likes of plants, sand, and low lights, they can live up to three years.

6. Pygmy Corydoras

Coming with a small stature, peaceful demeanor, and interesting coloring, Pygmy Corydoras joins our list of the best fish for beginner pet parents for more reasons than one. Corydoras Pygmaeus or Pygmy Catfish is a type of freshwater fish, and as long as you welcome at least 10 of these little beauties into one of the best tropical fish tanks with plants and soft or sandy substrates, these water-based babies will feel right at home.

7. Betta Fish 

With their more informal name, Siamese Fighting Fish, you might be thinking Bettas aren’t easy to look after. But that’s far from the truth. In fact, as long as you give these finned friends enough space to roam and explore in the tank, they’re beautiful to watch and easy to care for. So, once you’ve learned how to care for a betta fish, these majestic creatures could live for up to five years.

8. Dwarf Gourami 

If you’re looking for a peaceful fish, then the Dwarf Gourami ticks all the boxes. As its name suggests, this smaller-than-usual species typically reaches a maximum length of 2.5cm and has a red and orange body with beautiful iridescent blue fins. They are generally peaceful creatures with their relatively undemanding nature. But just know: male gouramis can be territorial, so it’s wise to only keep one male in a tank at any one time.

9. Rasboras

New to fishkeeping? Then make these active and easygoing fish one of your go-to options. Not only is looking after these Rasboras simple, but these laidback creatures can coexist and share their aquatic world with other species like Neon Tetras, Cardinal Tetras, and Black Phantom Tetras. And just look how stunning they are!

10. Glowlight Danios

So, you’ve heard how easygoing Slender Danios and Danio Margaritatus can be. But now Glowlight Danio joins this list! Hardy, as they can tolerate various water conditions, are easy to breed (if that’s what you’re looking for), and are peaceful — Glowlight Danios make for peaceful and active creatures, so are ideal for community fish tanks.

11. White Cloud Mountain Minnows

You might not have come across these delicately-named schooling fish before. But any fishkeeping newbie will want to get to know these small-sized fish because they are pretty inexpensive, undemanding when it comes to tank size, and as long as there is enough room for them (and their school) they make for an easy species of fish to look after.

12. Swordtails

Otherwise known as one of the best beginner community fish species, these tropical creatures are available in various colors and can be kept in a freshwater tank as small as 10 gallons. So if you’re short on space but still keen on adding an underwater ecosystem to your home, Swordtails are the perfect pets to consider.

13. Southern Platyfish 

Whether you’ve been keeping fish for years, or you’re new to the aquatic scene, these easy-to-watch (and loved) pets don’t ask for much. They love a higher pH level in the water and can be friendly neighbors to a whole host of other species. So maybe you’re considering investing in other small Tetras, Rasboras or Cory Catfish — a Southern Platyfish will be the perfect addition to your collection.

14. Molly Fish  

As long as you provide Mollies with enough hiding places so they can get some respite, some high-quality food, and these warm water-loving finned friends make for an easy pet to keep. Just remember, these are schooling fish so they love spending time in the company of their own species.

15. Corydoras

Peaceful, entertaining, and easy to breed are some words to describe the much-loved Cory Catfish, which are especially popular with beginner hobbyists. While these loveable creatures can survive the waters on their own, they much prefer living in a group of two or more. So if you’re keen to welcome these to your under-water world, be prepared to make room for at least two

16. Black Molly

Here's a fish you don't see every day! Black Mollies make for another low-maintenance fish that are peaceful and easy to care for. Swimming in a shoal, these beauties love being around their own kind, so they’re a real spectacle to look at in your tank.

17. Red wagtail platy

Vibrant red in color, these selectively bred variants of platies are native to Central America. Like other Platy breeds, the Red Wagtail is low-maintenance, and playful in nature and therefore makes life as a first-time aquatic owner a dream.

18. Otocinclus Catfish

Every newbie fish owner needs a resilient fish — and an Otocinclus Catfish or Otos, as they’re lovingly referred to, fit this bill. These extremely social and peaceful fish mix well with other small tank additions, like a Cory Catfish. They are non-aggressive by nature and in the wild, they live in shoals of thousands. So to keep them happy, experts recommend keeping around six in your tank at any one time. Who wouldn’t want a shoal of these beauties?

19. Cherry Barb

Aside from their bright and beautiful good looks and their ability to live in a wide range of water temperatures and conditions, one of the best things about the Cherry Barb is their ease of care. Ideally, you’ll want to keep a group of six of these bright beauties together while keeping their water temperature between 72–80°F and a pH level of 6.0-8.0.

20. Common Goldfish

Ask any pet lover what’s the best type of animal for beginner pet parents and the common goldfish is bound to be brought up every time. Whether you’ve got kids, or just have a love for fish, these vibrant and easy-to-love and look-after finned friends make for a great beginner pet for all. Wondering what do goldfish eat? Well, along with a good omnivore diet, these orange occupants will need at least one other aquarium mate and they can live peacefully in your company for up to 15 years.

21. Hypostomus plecostomus 

Also known as suckermouth catfish, plecos are considered to be a good fish for beginners. Lovers of algae, these peaceful fish won’t demand any special water parameters to stay happy or healthy. Along with algae, this omnivorous species will feed on aquatic plants and small crustaceans

22. Bolivian Rams 

These technicolored beauties are considered a good choice for beginner aquarium enthusiasts for a whole host of reasons. For starters, they are peaceful and they have the brilliant ability to adapt to a variety of environmental conditions. Along with being omnivorous, so will eat both plants and live food, they make great tank mates with Silver Dollar fish, Emperor Tetras, and Guppies.

23. Kuhli Loaches

Now here’s an under-water creature that will stand out! Beginner aquarists will want to open their hearts (and tanks) to a Kuhli Loach as these small, colorful fish are low-maintenance, interesting to look at thanks to their eel-like appearance and can thrive in freshwater aquariums.

24. Angelfish

Bright in color and coming in almost every hue of the rainbow, Angelfish are bound to brighten up any at-home tank. However, there are a few common health issues to watch out for as these little beauties can be susceptible to fin rot, anchor worm, and constipation. That said, with the right TLC, like a tank temperature of between 75F to 84F, Angelfish can live anywhere between 8-10 years.

25. Bristlenose plecos

After an algae eater who can hoover up piles of the green stuff? Then consider the beginner-friendly, unique-looking Bristle Nose Pleco (which can also be referred to as Bushynose Plecos) as the right fish for you. Whether it’s green spot algae or gold slime, depending on which type of flat-bodied fish you go for, these finned friends can keep your tank clean and require no special water parameter treatment.

26. Clownfish

Taking up little to no space, rarely swimming long distances, and happy to eat fresh, frozen, or dried foods, Clownfish or Anemonefish as they’re more formally called, are ideal for beginner aquarists who want the enjoyment of fish without the hassle of much upkeep. These little finned creatures will just keep swimming!

27. Congo Tetra 

Who said fish for beginners are boring? These tropical beauties prove otherwise! Adding iridescent gold and silver flecks to your tank thanks to their rainbow coloring, aside from keeping an eye on the water quality (they prefer slightly softer and acidic H2O), these sparkly creations are very easy to care for.

28. Boesemani Rainbowfish 

‘Mesmerizing’ is the only way to describe these vibrantly colored finned friends. There are many species of Rainbowfish available, but the Boesemani is by far the most recognizable thanks to the bluey/purple head with a sunset gold body. Like many of their other fish friends, the Bosemani Rainbowfish does well in groups. So give them plenty of room to swim in a school and they will be happy.

29. Silver Dollar

As you might expect from their name, the Silver Dollar is a tropical fish with a shiny metal-colored round body. Growing up to 6 inches tall, these peaceful species love hiding out of plain sight and will get along with other small finned babies.

30. Honey gourami

Another hardy pet for beginners? The peaceful, shy, and plant-loving Honey Gouramis. These golden-colored water lovers come with an oblong-shaped body and two ventral fins that look like trailing whiskers. They make for great community fish. But just like other gouramis, male Honey Gouramis can be aggressive towards one another.

31. Diamond Tetra 

Diamond Tetras could be considered suitable for beginners because they only come with a handful of care conditions. For starters, their ideal pH level is between 5.5 and 7, they prefer a tropical climate, love live food, and will thrive in schools of six or more.

32. Yellow Tail Acei 

If you’ve got a well-oxygenated environment, are happy to provide a balanced diet of both plant and animal-based foods, and have filled your aquarium with plenty of caves or hiding spaces, then the Yellow Tail Acei will feel happy in your under-water home.

If you’ve added ‘at-home aquarist’ to your resume recently, you may be searching for the best tips for taking care of fish, to ensure your finned friends are well looked after.

These colorful and intriguing under-the-water pet pals don’t ask for much. Unlike other four-legged fur babies, fish won’t need to be walked or groomed. But there are a handful of general basic fish care practices all aquatic enthusiasts should stick to.

For starters, investing in the best fish food isn’t just a ‘nice to have’, it’s a necessary part of fish care. The best top-quality fish food ensures your school gets the right diet to help them lead a happy and healthy life.

Then there’s the pH level of the water and the cleaning schedule to think about. Plus, if you’ve got a community tank, you’ll want to ensure the fish you welcome into your aquarium can coexist peacefully. To help you make sure life as an armchair aquarist goes swimmingly, we’ve compiled a list of tips for taking care of fish.

32 Top tips for taking care of fish

1. Keep fish in a tank rather than a bowl 

You might have spotted the two terms being used interchangeably, but when you look beyond the surface, there are quite a few differences between a ‘fish bowl’ and a ‘fish tank or aquarium’. From its size and restricted oxygen levels to its lack of proper filtration and less-than-ideal environment, a fish bowl might sound more appealing because of its smaller stature. But in reality, a tank or aquarium will help you take better care of your water babies. So check out the best fish tanks on the market or discover the best small fish tanks if you’re short on space.

2. Monitor water quality 

We hate to break the news, but poor water quality is the leading cause of fish death in aquariums. So monitoring the water is a big part of looking after your fish.

The main water checks you’ll need to do include testing on the pH level, carbonate hardness, and total hardness. Along with a nitrate, ammonia, and nitrite test. Just remember: the right water conditions will differ depending on the species of fish you’re keeping.

3. Use a filter

Once you’ve decided on the best fish tank for your water-loving pets, it’s time to include a filter. A filter helps with the water quality, as it works around the clock to remove dirt and waste and prevent any toxic build-up. This helps to keep the water clean and healthy for your fish.

4. Don’t subject your fish to loud noises

Your fish friends might be underwater, but they can still hear loud noises. A study in the Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, which looked into whether human-generated sounds could affect the behavioral patterns of fish, found that sound exposure ‘may affect fish behavior in any captive condition’. So to help keep your finned favorites happy, limit their exposure to loud noises.

5. Avoid water temp changes

Most pet fish are cold-blooded. This means they’re unable to generate their own body heat, so therefore rely on the environment to regulate their temperature. Generally speaking, most fish do well in tank water temperatures of 75°-80°F. But this may vary depending on the type of fish you keep. So check (and double-check) the best temperature for your water babies before welcoming them into your tank.

6. Maintain routine cleaning 

Tidy house, tidy mind. And the same goes for your fish tank. If you’re wondering how often to clean your fish tank, this all depends on how many fish you have and how messy the tank gets. But in most cases, the general rule of thumb is once every two weeks and the best fish tank cleaners can help you keep your finned friend’s under-the-water home in tip-top condition.

Here’s our guide on how to clean a fish tank to help you get started.

7. Pick the right species of fish

Just like humans, each species of fish comes with its own characteristics, mannerisms, and needs. Some are more demanding than others, and others are easier to look after. If you’re new to fishkeeping, you may wish to opt for the latter. If you’re hoping to add some pretty tropical fish species to your tank, you’ll need to figure out whether you can cater to their desired conditions. Either way, it’s important to learn how to choose the right pet fish for you and your home.

8. Make sure there are no bullies in the tank 

Learning how to choose the right pet fish isn’t just about assessing the space and time you have available. You’ll also need to consider what types of fish can co-exist so you can create a peaceful underwater community, each of whom are friends and not foes.

9. Location, location, location 

You wouldn’t decide to live somewhere without assessing the location first, right? And the same goes for your fish tank. So before deciding on your fish tank’s chosen spot, consider how much sunlight your tank will get, the temperature, and the levels of noise in your chosen area. It’s all about the location!

10. Avoid intrusive algae growth

It’s true: some algae growth in aquatic habitats is completely normal and healthy. However, this can become a problem when algae starts growing uncontrollably. For example, did you know that seaweed is the fastest-growing algae, and it can double in size in just 24 hours? However, too much algae can result in oxygen depletion, and sunlight blockage and alter the pH levels in your tank.

11. Don’t forget to siphon gravel

As we touched on, sticking to a strict cleaning schedule is a must in any aquarium setting. But what some aquarists fail to do is siphon the gravel. Leftover food, waste, and algae can all build up here, which is why vacuuming your tank floor can get rid of unwanted debris and help maintain your all-important water quality levels.

12. Clean your filter

Mastering the basics and learning how to clean a fish tank doesn’t stop there. Most experts recommend cleaning the filter every four weeks depending on how dirty it’s become. And it makes sense. Your tank filter works morning, noon, and night to filter unwanted debris and toxins along with oxygenating the water. So it needs some TLC too.

13. Change some of the water every one to two weeks 

Fish tank cleaners and filters do a brilliant job of keeping your tank looking sparkling. However, to keep your fish friends happy, it’s worth changing around 25% of your water every one to two weeks depending on your tank’s bioload. The bioload is the chemicals produced by uneaten food, dead scales, plant decay and breathing. This can all alter the water quality. The goal is to keep your fish’s environment as healthy as possible and adding fresh water can increase oxygen levels.

14. Get the right-sized tank 

Not all fish tanks are born equal. If your fish family is under five in size, small fish tanks are worth their weight in gold. But if you’ve got a larger and more exotic school of fish, one of the best tropical fish tanks will offer up more than enough space and the right conditions to house your finned friends.

15. Invest in some tank accessories

Whether it’s an interactive erupting volcano ornament or colored aquarium gravel, the best fish tank accessories not only transform your home aquarium into an eye-catching centerpiece you’ll love to spend hours looking at, but they can also provide a stimulating environment for your fish.

16. Get a light 

Providing energy and oxygen for your plants and organisms, generally speaking, most fish need between 8-12 hours of light a day to thrive. By investing in an LED light for your tank, it also means you’ll be able to see your under-the-water friends come day or night.

17. Cover the aquarium

This is another crucial tip for taking care of your fish. Adding a cover to your aquarium and keeping it shut will help to stop the water from evaporating, bugs from entering or dust from settling on the water surface. This means lesser water changes and quality H2O for your fish family.

18. Avoid touching your fish

If you’ve ever touched a fish before, the words ‘slippery’ or ‘slimy’ might come to mind. That's because fish have a protective coating that helps them safeguard against infection. To ensure you look after the health of your finned friends, you should avoid handling your fish in your aquarium. However, if it’s an emergency, wash your hands and avoid squeezing them.

19. Feed your fish a high-quality diet

The best food will vary from fish to fish. That’s because it all depends on whether your fish are omnivores (which eat both meat- and plant-based foods), carnivores (which favor fresh, frozen, freeze-dried, and or live meat-based), or herbivores (which devour aquatic plants and algae). That way, you can ensure they are getting the correct diet and a balanced one.

20. Avoid overfeeding

Once you’ve found the best fish food for your water babies, it can be tempting to make sure they get enough. However, it’s critical to understand your species’ requirements and feed them accordingly. Excess food in the tank can result in poor water quality. So do check how much and how many times a day you should feed your school.

21. Add plants 

Helping to add some color to your aquarium, plants also produce oxygen which is necessary for fish to survive, remove carbon dioxide from the water, and work hard to clarify the water. So in essence, adding plants to your aquarium will also make your aquatic ecosystem a healthy and balanced environment for your fish to live. Perfect!

22. Choose the right filter 

A couple of factors will depend on what size tank filter you’ll need to get. For starters, you’ll need to take into consideration the size of your tank and how much water it holds. Experts recommend for planted aquariums there is a filter turnover of around 5-10 times your tank size. This means for a 100-liter tank, you’ll need to pick out a filter that has a 500-1000 liter per hour flow rate.

23. Engage their natural senses with enrichment  

They might be small in size, but even fish need environmental enrichment to help prevent poor health, and stress and to promote a natural display of behavior. According to the American Association of Zoo Keepers’ suggested guidelines on enrichment for fish, changing the way that food is offered to fish is a ‘good form of enrichment, particularly if it stimulates new foraging behaviors.’ So, this includes feeding at different times of the day and feeding from different areas of the tank.

24. Quarantine new or sick fish 

Keen to add some new additions to your fish family? Before doing so, it’s a wise idea to put your new fish into quarantine to ensure your aquarium remains healthy and to prevent any diseases from spreading.

25. Teach them tricks  

Contrary to what you might have thought, it’s not just dogs or cats that can learn new tricks. To prevent boredom and encourage activity, you could teach them how to swim through small holes or hoops or how to go through a tunnel.

26. Get creative with your tank

Make your finned friends feel comfortable by incorporating driftwood, gravel, caves, rocks, and plants into their under-the-water lodgings. When arranging your plants, try to achieve a natural look. So instead of placing greenery in a neat and orderly straight line, arrange the plants in an ‘X’ pattern. This will help them feel right at home.

27. Don’t tap on the tank 

Remember what we said about a fish’s sensitive hearing? Well, tapping on the tank can inadvertently result in stressing your fish out, it contributes to rising noise levels and it can also create vibrations in the water.

28. Clean your hands before feeding 

You don’t have to touch the fish or the water to spread disease. All it takes is for you to feed your fish with unclean hands. So, to prevent spreading germs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not readily available.

29. Clean decorations 

So, you’ve siphoned your gravel, scraped the algae off the sides and cleaned the fish tank. But before you start adding your fish back into their home, don’t forget to clean the decorations. Whether it’s ornaments or the planks of wood, these decorations can become a breeding ground for mineral deposits, algae and bacteria waste. Another no-no in at-home aquariums.

30. Condition the water 

As we know, poor water will result in poor health for your aquatic friend. But that’s where a water conditioner can help you to stay on top of things. An aquarium tap water-safe conditioner can help neutralize chlorine and ammonia, both of which can be toxic to fish. This can also help stop your fish tank looking cloudy. If you’re considering investing in a water conditioner, speak to the pet shop where you purchased your fish as they should be able to guide you on the right type for your tank and fish.

31. Keep an eye on them 

Any pet parent will want to make sure their beloved water baby is happy in their new home. But unlike a cat or dog, who could bark or meow to communicate with us, you’ll need to watch your finned friend's body language. For example, if they are ‘flitting’ or darting around the tank, frantically swimming, or gasping for air at the surface, it could all be warning signs that something isn’t right.

32. Call in reinforcements

Having made it to the bottom of the best care tips for your fish, you may have concluded that you’re unable to give your fish the TLC they need day to day and week to week. If that’s the case, don’t panic. Instead, call in the professionals, like an aquarium maintenance company, who will help you keep your tank (and fish) in tip-top condition.

Read next: How to improve your fish's life.

Investing in the best fish tank is one of the most important purchases you’ll make as a pet parent when it comes to ensuring your fish stay happy and healthy. While fish are often touted as "easy" pets compared to dogs or cats, they still require proper care, and a habitat that gives them room to live their fishy little lives. Before purchasing fish, or a tank to house them in, it's worth sitting down to fully understand what your fish will need from you in order to thrive.

The first thing to work out is what kind of fish you are interested in keeping, and how many of them you plan to house in a single tank. This means thinking about the size of fish and their temperament, tank size, lighting, filters, and more. 

If you’re planning on creating a vibrant, sub-aquatic colony of tropical fish, we recommend opting for one of the best tropical fish tanks as these have water capacities of at least 20 gallons to ensure your finned friends have plenty of space to swim about in. 

On the other hand, if you’re happy to have a single fish or to keep your fishy family to under five, then the best small fish tanks are well worth considering. Compact and ideal for tiny living spaces, these petite pads come in sizes up to 10 gallons and are wonderful for dorm rooms, kids rooms, or apartments. 

Whatever kind of tank you decide to go for, it’s worth factoring in some extra space to accommodate a few of the best fish tank decorations. Just like any other creature, our finned friends thrive in a stimulating and enriching environment, so a few carefully placed pieces of driftwood, some stones, caves, ships, or ruins are all wonderful for adding fun places for fish to explore.

With all of that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best fish tanks currently available, including starter kits that are perfect for beginners and just a few fish, right through to palatial palaces for the experienced fish keeper that will hold a whole school of underwater amigos.

We've also spoken to Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, to ensure you're making an informed choice for the health of your fish! 

Dr. MacMillan has a few tips before purchasing any fish, or a new tank to house them.

"As a fellow fish fanatic, I know the amount of tank choices out there can be overwhelming. There are several key things to remember when making your purchase. The first is what sort of fish you would like to own. This includes freshwater vs marine species, small or large specimens, shoaling or singular fish, and whether your chosen variety are escape artists (a lid can be handy in this case!). The second thing is where you are planning to situate your tank, which dictates the size you can go for and how easy water changes will be. The third consideration is budget, which is a big factor for many people when choosing."

PetsRadar's pick of the best fish tanks

If you are delving into the world of fish for the first time and don't want a big outlay to start with then this budget fish tank is for you. It's a starter kit that contains all the basics that you will need but without breaking the bank. This is a smaller capacity tank at just 5 gallons, and 6 pounds when not filled. That makes this the perfect starter tank, ideal for a small community of 2-3 fish, a betta, or goldfish!

Measuring at 15"L x 9"W x 11"H, this tank has a fairly small footprint, making it easy to display in your home without needing a dedicated stand to do it. This tank also features a curved front, delivering panoramic views of your new fishy friends.  

The interior of the tank is lit from hidden LED lights tucked under the lid. These white lights will ensure you can see everything going on within the tank, without distracting from the aquatic adventures within. 

To keep your few fish happy and healthy an air pump-driven Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter will keep the tank clean. This uses a two-part filtration system that catches waste and removes debris and odors. This is great for the fish and for your home. 

This tank has a black plastic lid on top, keeping your fish safe from any accidental dropped items, or curious cats who are looking for a snack. When it's time to feed your fishies, all you need to do it flip it open, and voila! 

Do you want a sleek and elegant upright tank to house your fish, but don’t have enough space for a large tank? Say hello to this portrait tank from Marineland. It has a small footprint, measuring just under one foot in length and width. But it is the 17-inches in height that pumps up the capacity to five gallons, which is just enough for a 1-2 small fish. 

The tank sits on its own sturdy plastic base, held in place by its own weight. This raises the tank a few inches above any surface it is placed on and adds to the ambience of the overall design of the tank. 

Add in the curved corners and black background and you have a tank that is attractive and great for viewing your smart looking fish from multiple angles. Sitting above the tank is a blue and white LED lighting system which brings your tank to life with natural daylight and moonlight settings. 

The bright white LEDs create a shimmering sunlight effect while the blue LEDs produce a moonlit glow, an ideal night time setting. Directly under the hinged LED lighting - and across the top of the tank – is a sliding glass canopy for easy access to the tank. 

The kit doesn’t include any decoration to bring the tank to life and give your fish a more natural environment. See this as an opportunity to invest in some tall plants, some natural strata and a water heater to create a bespoke habitat to keep you and your fish happy. 

If the sight of happy little fish swimming around isn't quite enough for you, and you'd prefer something just a little more visually engaging, the Fluval Flex Aquarium Kit could be what you're looking for. This 15-gallon fish tank benefits not only from a curved front panel for a clearer (and ever so slightly magnified) view of your fish, but also some impressive lighting options. This is also an ideal size for a school of fish between 10-15, depending on their size. 

Not only does it pack 7500K white LED lighting that's ideal for encouraging plant growth and showing off your fish's colors to best effect, it also comes with RGB LEDs (plus a remote for controlling them) that'll give you over 80 color options as well as special lighting effects including cloud cover, storm and full color cycle.

While you'll have to supply your own extras such as plants and accessories for the Fluval Flex Aquarium Kit, it's otherwise well-specced, with multi-stage filtration for keeping things healthy, with foam, carbon and biomax media included. The filter stays tucked away in a hidden compartment at the back, while a honeycomb wrap at the top of the tank conceals the water line and the sides of the rear compartment.

If you are looking to start your own tropical fish aquarium, you will need all the right equipment to make it happen. This may seem like a herculean task, but you can throw yourself straight in at the deep end with a Tetra 20 Gallon Complete Aquarium Kit. The kit comes complete with everything you need, except for the fish. You get to choose those. 

The key component of any aquarium is the fish tank. The tank in this kit has a 20 gallon capacity – ideal for up to 20 fish – and has a footprint of 27.88 x 16.13 x 20.38 inches. There are larger options available from Tetra including a 55 gallon aquarium kit if you want to go large. The tank is made from quarter inch thick scratch-resistant glass ensuring that viewing of your finned friends will stay crystal clear. 

Also included in the kit is a Tetra Whisper 20 filter to keep the tank clean and a Tetra Mini UL heater to keep the water temperature at the right level. Both of these models do the job, but you may want to think about upgrading in the future. The  heater has an electronic thermostat that automatically adjusts to keep the water in the tank at a steady 78 degrees. Check this works for your fish. 

Tank decorations create the habitat inside a tank and this Tetra kit comes with a few basics. There is one artificial Boxwood Plant Mat and four artificial plants. This is enough to get you started but you will need to invest in more accessories to create a great looking aquarium. And, there is no gravel or sand to recreate a seabed. To complete the aquarium an LED hood provides a natural daytime effect. This is conveniently on hinges to open for easy access and cleaning. But there is also a small flap to quickly drop in fish food. 

If you are literally looking for just a fish tank then this option from Landen could just be what you are after. No water filters, no tank decoration, no water heaters, just the tank (and a black nano foam levelling mat). This makes this tank the ideal solution for someone who’s looking to take their fish keeping hobby a little more seriously. You get to choose everything that goes with the tank. The perfect opportunity to create your own custom aquarium. 

The Landen is made from premium quality thick crystal clear low iron glass, which has a greater than 91 percent transparency. This means you get to gaze at your finned friends with plenty of clarity and really enjoy their beauty. They are hand-made by craftsmen and come with a high standard of workmanship, especially on the edges. 

The Landen is available in six different sizes. The smallest in the range measures 14.2 × 8.7 × 10.2 inches and weighs in at ten pounds. This has a capacity of around five gallons, so ideal for around five fish or less. The next option in the range measures 23.6 x 14.2 x 11.8 inches and weighs in at 26 pounds. But, the largest tank measures an impressive 39.37 x 17.72 x 17.72 inches and weighs in at a hefty 92.8 pounds. And this is without water – the tank holds around 50 gallons – so you will need to make sure you have a strong and sturdy platform to place your tank on. 

Make any room pop with this sleek and stylish GloFish Aquarium that’s sure to be the talking point of your home. An affordable starter kit that includes all the essentials, the crescent-shaped 5-gallon tank comes with a Tetra Whisper Bio-Bag Filter Cartridge, a convenient feeding hole and energy-efficient blue LED lighting.

The perfect home for Danios and Tetras, the hidden blue LED lights are set into the hood, illuminating your fish from above to give them a fluorescent look. The dense dual-sided mesh does a great job of catching the debris and waste that’s pushed through the filter cartridge and the black hood reduces evaporation and the fish from jumping.

This tank has a great look to it and provides an excellent view of your fish and we love how easy it is to set up and maintain. It’s also available in 10 and 20-gallon options as well, great if you’ve got a large fish family that you’re needing to house. The only drawback is the material, with the hood not being quite as durable as we’d like. Other than that, this is a fun and exciting tank with a unique look. 

If you have a school of tropical fish or are just looking for a larger space for your fishy friends to swim around in, this 55-gallon tank from Tetra is exactly what you need. 

Measuring 51.90" L x 24.40" W x 16.40" H, there's plenty of room for your fish to spread out comfortably and it comes with a 200W heater which does a brilliant job of maintaining the perfect water temperature. There's also a stick on digital thermometer so you'll be able to spot immediately if there are any issues.

The included LED lighting gives a lovely natural daylight effect to the aquarium and allows you to watch your finned friends in all their glory, although it's worth noting that the lighting in the hood can't be replaced, so you'll need to send away for a new one which can be a hassle.

Weighing approximately 79lbs on it's own, the tank can reach a weight of 520lbs when full, so you'll want to ensure you have a good solid stand to rest this on. It comes with two plant multipacks and a boxwood plant, so you'll have some nice accessories to get you started. 

At over $300, it's not the cheapest 55-gallon tank we've seen, but it's stylish and well made which makes it a worthy entry in this list.  

Give it as a gift or keep it for yourself, either way this wonderful water garden fish tank is a dream for anyone who has always wanted to grow succulents, house plants and micro greens but doesn't have any backyard space. 

This water garden is a joy for both adults and children and comes with everything you could possibly need to get started, including fast growing and nutritious radish and wheatgrass seeds, water conditioner, a growing medium for your seeds to take root, water de-chlorinator, and fish food.

This hydroponic and aquaponic ecosystem will bring a touch of zen to any living space and is a also a great educational project for children. The fish tank is self-cleaning with the fish waste fertilising the plants on top and the plants cleaning the water.

How to choose the best fish tank

When choosing the best fish tank for your future finned friends, there are a variety of things to consider from water type, to tank size, to the size and behavior of your fish. Before you buy the first tank on sale, it's worth considering a number of factors. 

As well as making sure you have all the equipment you need, plus good lighting and a solid filtration system, the visual appeal is also important, especially if the fish tank is going to be the centerpiece of your home. Take a look at the best fish tank stands for inspiration on how you can support your aquarium in style. 

Read next: How to clean a fish tank

Do betta fish get lonely? It’s a question you may find yourself pondering as you watch your bright and vibrant Siamese fighting fish swim solo around their aquatic home. 

While nobody can say for certain whether betta fish struggle with loneliness, the general consensus is that because these little creatures tend to be quite aggressive both towards their own kind and other fish, it’s highly likely that they prefer solitary life. 

That’s not to say that betta fish don’t get bored, stressed, or depressed, however, like all fish, they require plenty of stimulation by way of a spacious fish tank and a selection of tank accessories to fill it with to ensure they thrive mentally and physically. 

It’s worth noting that while it’s believed that betta fish do have a strong tendency towards enjoying their own company, that’s not to say that all betta fish like being alone. Just like humans and other pets, each betta fish has their own temperament, with some enjoying living with non-threatening species.

Below, we reveal everything you need to know about these colorful tropical fish and loneliness, including whether they can co-exist peacefully with other fish and how to make sure all your finned friends stay happy, healthy and safe if you decide to pair them up. 

• How to choose the right pet fish – a beginner's guide
• How to care for a betta fish

Do betta fish get lonely?

Betta fish are well known for being highly territorial and their aggressive natures mean they will often fight each other to the death when paired together. For that reason, bettas are generally considered solitary fish who prefer being on their own.

While it’s believed they don’t suffer from loneliness, what bettas can struggle with just like any other fish is sadness and depression that is often brought on by boredom. Because of that, it’s just as important with bettas, as with any other fish, to provide them with plenty of stimulation.

Once you’ve purchased an appropriate fish tank, be sure to also invest in a good array of accessories to go in it, including plants, hiding places, mirrors, toys and other decorations. All of these are known to reduce stress and provide the mental and physical enrichment your betta fish needs to thrive. 

Do betta fish prefer being alone?

A betta’s nature means that most of these fish are probably quite happy being alone, but because they each have their own unique temperament, it has been noted that some betta fish actually thrive in community tanks - as long as they’re paired with appropriate companions. 

The one exception to this is male betta fish, who should under no circumstances be paired together. They are extremely territorial and will quickly fight each other to the death if they feel their environment is under threat. 

Female betta fish are more likely to cohabitate peacefully, so while you will still need to monitor them for signs of aggression, it’s generally considered safe to put groups of females together.

If you’re looking to provide your betta with some company, your best bet is to put them with species they find non-threatening. Think mollies, snails, shrimp, and bottom feeders, all of whom won’t clash with your betta and will likely enhance their quality of life by making them feel happier and more content. 

Keeping bettas with other fish

As we’ve seen, although betta fish are well known for being solitary and are unlikely to struggle too much with loneliness, if your finned friend has a more social nature and you do decide to keep them in a community tank, there are a few things worth bearing in mind:

• Make sure the tank is big enough: While small fish tanks are fine for a single betta, you will need something more substantial if you’re deciding to house them alongside other species. Choose a fish tank that has plenty of space for all your friends to spread out comfortably in.
• Provide hiding spaces: Your betta (and their friends) will feel a lot safer in a community tank if they have hiding places that they can retreat to when they’re not swimming around in the open.
• Monitor the tank: It’s vital that you keep a close eye on your community tank to ensure everyone is safe and happy. When introducing any new species to your betta, monitor them closely for signs of aggression. If you notice any territorial or threatening behavior, separate your finned friends - either with a tank divider or by placing them in completely different habitats.
• Choose your betta’s tank mates carefully: Once again, avoid putting male betta fish together and you’ll also want to avoid any other fish that have long tails and bright colors. Because betta fish like to occupy the top part of the tank, stick to species that like to live on the bottom as this will avoid any clashes occurring between the two.

With a little careful planning and a healthy dose of vigilance, it’s possible for the usually solitary betta to not just survive life in a community tank but to thrive. 

Investing in one of the best tropical fish tanks is a wonderful way to ensure you can show off your finned friends in all of their glory. When combined with the best fish tank stand to elevate the aquarium to eye level, you can rest assured that your colorful tropical fish family will be the talking point of your home.

Before you rush out and excitedly purchase a fish tank, it's important to create a checklist of the things you'll need to ensure you're purchasing the right aquarium to keep your water-based babies happy and healthy. Thankfully, most tropical fish tanks tend to be packaged up as kits, meaning the plants, LED lighting, filters and other accessories are often included.

Cost and size are two important factors to consider when shopping for the best fish tank. You'll find that by the time you take the cost of the aquarium itself and add on any other pieces of equipment or accessories you might need that aren't included in the tank kit (i.e., cleaning supplies, fish food etc), you could easily spend between $150 - $200 on a 20-gallon tank.

When it comes to size, you'll want to allow plenty of room for your fish family to grow, so for tropical fish, we really do recommend that you steer clear of anything smaller than 20-gallons. Small aquariums are obviously restrictive when it comes to space, but they can also be difficult to manage if you're a first time fish owner as toxins can build up quickly and water and temperature changes can occur quite rapidly.

If, however, you're an experienced fish keeper and decide that tropical fish tanks are too large for the space you have available to you or you find that you'd actually rather just have a few fish rather than a whole school of them you can check out our guide to the best small fish tank instead.

Once you've weighed the pros and cons of small vs large tanks and decided that it's a case of the more the merrier when it comes to how many fish friends you want to have, our picks of the best topical fish tanks below will help you find the perfect home for your brightly colored water babies.

PetsRadar's pick of the best tropical fish tanks

From Tetra, one of the biggest names in fishkeeping today, these simple rectangular glass tropical fish tanks come with everything you need to get started – except for water and actual fishes.

Available in sizes from 20gal to 55gal (24” to 48” wide), the tank is made from quarter-inch scratch-resistant glass that comes with a lifetime warranty.

You get quite a lot in the box, with an energy-saving and color-changing LED lighting array inside a black hood with a convenient feeding hole. The entire hood hinges back for cleaning, but being able to open a small flap just to feed through is better in terms of both mess and disturbance to the fish.

The heater and filter included are good enough, but better ones are available and you may feel the itch to upgrade them as time passes. The heater is a pre-set model that should keep the tank at around 77°F, the perfect temperature for platys, barbs, and guppies, but a little on the cool side for some species.

Nonetheless, you’ll be able to build a colorful community tank around this temperature. Being thermostatically controlled, there’s no fiddling with a truculent control knob on the heater – often one of the worst things about setting up a new tank.

The included Tetra Whisper filter offers three stages of filtration, passing the water over activated carbon and a ‘bio-scrubber’ biological filtration layer to remove odors and water discolouration, with a dual-layer mesh to remove floating particulates.

It’s pretty quiet, as you’d expect from the name, but its weakness is in the clip used to attach it to the side of the tank – it’s worth sending away for the optional suction cups, as these will provide a much greater purchase on the glass.

A rather plain glass rectangle with visible equipment beyond a clear background, this is nonetheless the perfect introduction to fishkeeping in a larger tank. It has some modern touches such as its low-profile hood with LED lighting, and the filter is manufactured by Tetra.

It’s a nice looking setup, if you can ignore the visibility of the multi-chambered filtration system. Unfortunately, it’s flimsily built in places, with a thin plastic hood (it does at least have an integrated feeding flap) and the LED lighting clipped into the lid on a chain of wires rather than being seamlessly integrated.

Only the fish will see this, so it’s not much of a problem. Anecdotal evidence online, however, points to the lighting being short-lived and unsuitable for growing live plants, something we have been unable to test.

The filter cartridge is at least easy to change, and a nice touch is the green plastic net included in the package, perfect for scooping out uneaten food to take the load off the filter. For the price, this makes a good introduction to the fishkeeping hobby, but it’s basic and you may find yourself itching to upgrade its components after a little while.

Made from plastic – acrylic to be precise – the SeaClear range is likely to stop a fishkeeping traditionalist in their tracks. It can’t be as good as glass, can it? Well, despite 99% of large tropical fish tanks being made out of glass, acrylic is starting to look as if it might actually be better, even if it does cost more.

Not only is it both lighter (up to 50%) and stronger than glass (17 times stronger, if the manufacturer’s claims are to be believed), but we think acrylic tanks might look better too.

This is partly because of the range of shapes it can be made into, with flat-backed pentagonal and hexagonal tanks not uncommon, and even curve-fronted tanks available, and partly because of the properties of acrylic.

The joins between the panels are virtually invisible – no more slightly milky resin in the corners – and acrylic allows more light to pass through. Your lights and fish look brighter and their finer details are more easily seen.

At the risk of sounding overenthusiastic, acrylic tanks are starting to look like the best modern TVs, a practically borderless rectangle on which bright and high-resolution pictures can be enjoyed. The SeaClear rectangular tank has no black plastic fittings apart from a lid that appears to float above the top of the tank.

Clever positioning can make it appear to blend in seamlessly with its surroundings, and a range of plastic backing panels are available to hide wires and equipment.

The set comes with a light fixture (with no bulb) in that lid, but is otherwise just a bare tank, so you’ll need to factor in the cost of adding filtration, gravel, heating etc to the already high cost of the tank. Once you’ve got it set up, however, there’s really nothing like it.

With its curved glass front and wraparound black plastic bezel, the BioCube brings some striking modern looks to the fishkeeping party. While not as flexible in shape as some of the acrylic offerings, this is a sleek glass option that packs some interesting technology to make looking after your fish easier and more rewarding.

Not truly a cube, the BioCube still looks great compared to the tired old rectangular tanks that we see so many of. Its low-profile hood contains energy-efficient LED lighting that comes with three independent light channels for plenty of customization options, whether you want bright white, a sparkling blue, or to enhance the colours of your fish, the lights and their integrated timer can accommodate you, even providing simulations of sunrise and sunset.

The dual-intake pump is completely submersible, and quiet as a result. Despite being almost invisible in use, it’s easy to clean – the three-chamber filtration system has one section for the pump, a second for biological filter media, and another with both phosphorus-based filter media and the water heater.

Having everything in a single package, and so neatly tucked away as they are in the BioCube, means this is the perfect tank for beginners who don’t want to fiddle about too much and just get on with watching their fish, or perhaps for a professional setting where it will be on display. Along with the lighting timer, there’s a temperature control, and a small cooling fan that prevents the LEDs from getting too hot.

GloFish lives up to its name with this kit, which contains artificial plants of such molten, unrealistic colours they practically light up the tank without putting the lights on. And when you do, well, you’d better be wearing sunglasses. Elsewhere, however, there’s a lot to like about this kit,

The equipment supplied is by market leader Tetra, so you get a submersible heater and Whisper 20 filter that should do a good job. You’ll want to go out to an aquatics store and buy replacement filter media, as only one is included, and there’s only a small sampler packet of fish food too.

GloFish’s lighting is kept within the lid of the fish tank, and has been chosen, along with the artificial plants, to give a strong display of color when switched on.

Rather than going for a naturalistic look, GloFish has chosen to include blue LED lights that make the plastic anemones and plants fluoresce. Alongside brightly colored fish such as platies, danios, and barbs, and a dark background, it can be a striking sight, but if you’re after a realistic look you should consider other options.

We also wouldn’t put plain silver or other drab-coloured fish in a tank like this, as they’re likely to get lost in the cacophony of colour. GloFish sells its own strains of common fish, including male Siamese fighting fish and long-finned varieties of barbs and tetras, that are bred for their bright colours.

After a large environment that will let you house a greater variety of fish? Then this 55-gallon offering from Tetra is well worth considering. The advantage of a larger tank is that it doesn't just allow you the opportunity to have more fish and a greater variety, it also gives your fish family plenty of room to grow as well.

This aquarium kit comes with everything you need to get started, including a 6” fish net, 200W heater, WPF 60 Filter, stick on digital thermometer, two 24” Tetra hinged hoods, a range of plants and fish food - so pretty much all the essentials you need for successful fish keeping.

Measuring 51.9 x 24.4 x 16.4 inches and weighing 79 pounds, is ideal for experienced hobbyists or those just starting out. The one drawback is the filter, which buyers report can be quite noisy at times, but that aside, this is a great fish tank if you're wanting to display a nice range of fish.

How to choose the best tropical fish tank

The most important thing about a tropical fish tank is that it holds water. Do not under any circumstances buy your fish right away – leave the tank set up and circulating for a while to ensure there are absolutely no leaks.

This is a good time to put some water conditioner and bacterial starter solution in the tank, to make sure it’s good and ready for when the occupants arrive.

Look for a tank with good joins between the panels, or a plastic one that doesn’t rely on sealant. Make sure the lid fits snugly – a little give is usual, but you shouldn’t be able to see a gap around the edge. Any lighting cables should be tidied out of the way and not droop into the water, and the same goes for filtration.

If your lighting gets too wet it may stop working, so ensure there’s enough of a gap above the surface of the water, or a plastic internal lid to stop splashes. Filtration that takes the water outside of the tank should always be fitted with a non-return valve to prevent it from emptying your tank in the case of an accident, although this is rare. Internal power filters should be able to sit vertically with their output flow on the surface of the water and their intake above the level of the gravel.

This also helps when replacing their cartridges, which you’ll need to do every month, as they’re more accessible.

The importance of gravel in an aquarium is high – if you’re going to use undergravel biological filtration you always need more depth of gravel than you think, and in a small tank it can take up a surprising amount of space. The gravel is as alive as your fish, containing helpful bacteria that digest waste even if you’re not using it as a filter medium.

Fluorescent tube lighting is now a thing of the past, with LEDs providing more brightness, greater color combinations, and less heat as well as being easier to set up, lasting longer and using less energy.

Lights should be on a timer – a smart plug can do the job – to allow the fish to sleep, but filtration must be left on all the time as it is the movement of the water that exposes it to the outside air and dissolves essential oxygen. Streams of bubbles move water with them, but transpiration between the bubbles and the water is low.

So you’ve splashed out on the best fish tank and your new pets are all settled in. But how often should you feed fish?

It’s important to get feeding right for fish to ensure that you don’t overfeed them, which can cause problems. The mantra of little and often usually works well with most fish, spreading out their meals (and even treats) across the course of a day. 

According to the RSPCA, underfeeding is actually preferable to overfeeding, as poor quality water is generally a worse problem than not getting enough food. 

You might be surprised to know that fish learn routines, just like you might expect from other types of pets, such as cats or dogs. If you consistently feed them at the same time every day, you might even find your fish waiting expectantly at the top of the tank.

Another thing that it’s important to remember is to feed your fish a well-balanced diet, and don’t just rely on commercially available fish flakes. Depending on the type of fish you have, you might find that they also enjoy typical human foods, such as vegetables, as well as other goodies such as shrimp. 

Always check with your vet or fish provider to find out the perfect diet for your particular species – remembering that those who live in the best tropical fish tanks might have different needs compared to other types.

• Best fish food: The best diet for tank or pond fish
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• What do goldfish eat?

How long can fish go without being fed?

Unlike other more high-maintenance pets, leaving fish unattended is not a huge problem. Young fish should be regularly fed, but once they reach adulthood, if you need to go away for a couple of days or over a long weekend, you don’t need to be overly concerned.

In fact, if your fish is healthy you should find that a week or two without food won’t do any long-lasting damage. However, it’s always preferable to find another way to feed them if possible, such as asking a friend or neighbor to pop round, or investing in an automatic feeder.

You can also buy 'feeding blocks' that release food into the water. However, these can release too much food too quickly and contaminate the tank, so they aren’t highly recommended. Remember, overfeeding can be more of a problem for fish than underfeeding.

What times should I feed my fish?

There’s no specific time which you absolutely should feed your fish, but getting into a set routine is a good idea. It’s also generally a good idea to leave a gap between feedings, so mornings and evenings work well.

You’ll want to feed your fish little and often to make sure there’s no excess food contaminating the water, which is especially true if you’re using one of the best small fish tanks.

Generally, two or three feedings a day are adequate for most fish, so it might make sense to tie them in with your own meal times for ease of remembering. Something as simple as when you get up, or when you get home from work. Whatever you choose, consistency is key.

How do I know if I’m feeding my fish enough?

As we’ve said, underfeeding is less of a problem than overfeeding. However, you do need to make sure that your fish is getting enough food.

Fish don’t usually overeat, and will simply reject excess food if you’re giving them too much. It’s also true that many recommend purposefully underfeeding your fish on occasion to keep them in tip top condition. 

Getting that balance right is crucial to keeping them happy and healthy by being well-fed, but without too much detritus in the tank or getting caught on the best fish tank accessories.

A simple way to test the amount you’re giving them is to see how much food the fish can eat in around a minute or two. If they aren't able to get through everything you give them, it usually means you’ve given them too much. 

If after a further few minutes, there is still food untouched, you almost certainly have overfed them. Try reducing the amount next time until you hit the sweet spot of them being able to get through it all without having any leftovers.

If you’re concerned about your fish’s food intake – for example, if you’re worried that they are looking unwell – make sure to speak to your vet or breeder for further advice. 

Can you overfeed fish?

Yes. Overfeeding fish is something that you should try to avoid. It’s best to figure out the right amount of food to feed them (see above) and try to stick to that as best you can. 

Make sure others in your household aren’t also feeding your fish as well as you, and let them know the ideal schedule that you’ve decided upon. Treats for your fish are great but are best given in moderation and with adjustment to the amount of other food you’re giving them.

If you feed your fish too much, some common health problems include poor digestion, fatty liver, and fin rot. If you have several fish in the tank, this can not only be a problem for one particular fish but can also impact upon the rest of the aquarium.

With too much food, the water quality suffers and you might also create more extensive problems, such as clogged filters, which make cleaning and maintenance more difficult. Here are some tips on how to clean a fish tank.

Feeding your fish the correct amounts and caring for them well can lead to them having happy and healthy lives. Indeed, you’ll be surprised to learn how long goldfish live if kept well.

Do fish get bored living in a tank? While they’re not going to chew up your furniture or pee on your new rug any time soon, our finned friends suffer with boredom just like any other pet. Even if you’ve invested in the best fish tank that money can buy, if their habitat doesn’t provide them with enough stimulation and enrichment, your fish’s health and wellbeing could start to suffer.

Unlike our feline friends and canine companions, whose behavior is much easier to observe, there remains some debate in scientific circles as to the degree to which fish get bored and the signs to be on the lookout for. Swimming up and down a glass tank could, for example, signal boredom, but it could also be a stress response to overcrowding or a lack of socialization.

That said, what scientists are in agreement on is that the environment a fish lives in influences the development of its brain and the behavior it exhibits, with those reared in boring tanks that lack the best fish tank accessories for them to engage with having smaller brains and being slower to recover from stress. A good way to avoid this is to ensure the conditions in your fish’s tank are conducive to wellbeing.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to keep your relatively low-maintenance pet healthy and thriving, including the signs of boredom to be on the lookout for and various ways that you can ensure your finned friend gets all the mental and physical stimulation they need to live a long and happy life.

• How to choose the right pet fish - a beginner’s guide
• How to clean a fish tank
• Best fish tank stands

Do fish get bored?

While fish have historically been viewed as little more than something to be put on our plates and eaten, science is increasingly revealing these creatures to be highly intelligent, emotional beings who are capable of feeling pain and joy just as we humans are. 

Just because fish have mask-like features that don’t reveal emotion in the same way that a dog or cat's features do, doesn’t necessarily mean there aren’t feelings going on beneath the surface as biologist Jonathan Balcombe explains:

“Their bodies are shaped differently, their eyes don’t blink, they’re bathed permanently in water and—while they make lots of sounds underwater—we don’t hear them because they’re transmitted in an aqueous environment,” Balcombe says. “But they are sentient creatures with the capacity to feel.”

Fish are quick learners with strong memories and have been shown to outperform primates on some tasks, so it’s not a leap to suggest that a highly intelligent creature like this would become bored when they’re living in an environment that doesn’t provide them with enough stimulating activities to keep their brains and bodies in tip-top condition.

Balcombe states that research findings show that aquarium fish seek out pleasurable experiences, such as riding bubble streams for fun, and live social lives that are very similar to the ones we humans lead, with social groups containing both friends and enemies. 

Whether you’re looking for ways to care for a betta fish or trying to figure out how to make goldfish live longer, it's clear that one of the answers lies in making sure these smart creatures have the enrichment they need to both survive and thrive. But how can you tell if your fish is bored and even if they are, what can you do about it? Let’s find out.

How to tell if your fish is bored

One of the biggest challenges with fish is trying to distinguish between boredom and stress. Not only do many of the symptoms of boredom and stress overlap, they often operate in a bit of a vicious cycle, with one triggering the other. The good news is that many of the ways to help reduce stress in fish also help to reduce boredom and vice versa.

But, before we get into that, here are some key signs to be on the lookout for that may indicate your fish has a case of the boredom blues:

• A lack of activity - you’ve probably noticed that your fishy friends like to keep pretty active and most likely spend the majority of their time swimming around, exploring their environment and interacting with their fellow water-based buddies. Unless you have a breed of fish that is naturally more on the passive side, standing still for long periods of time in one place or hiding are both signs of boredom.
• Changes in behavior - be on the lookout for lethargy, fast frantic swimming, a refusal to interact with other fish, plunging into the sediment at the bottom of the tank and floating at the top of the tank when they’d normally hang out on the tank floor (or vice versa) could indicate boredom.
• Glass surfing - this behavior, which is when your fish swims up and down the glass, is a classic sign of boredom, but can also indicate that your fish is feeling highly stressed either because the conditions of their tank are sub-optimal or because they’re not getting along with their tankmates.

4 ways to help fish boredom

While helping to banish the boredom experienced by our fishy friends isn't quite as straightforward as alleviating the boredom dogs and cats feel, there are a few things you can do to help make your fish feel happier as they swim through their days. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Invest in the right tank

While they may look small to our eye, fish still need plenty of room to swim about in. Swimming round and round all day in a tiny glass fish bowl is enough to drive anyone bonkers, so make sure that you have a tank that’s big enough to hold your single fish or school of finned friends.

For example, if you just have the one fish and are planning on keeping it that way, then selecting from amongst the best small fish tanks would be the way to go. These are compact enough that they won’t take up much space in an apartment, dorm room or office but large enough that your fish will still have plenty of room.

On the other hand, if you’re planning on keeping a school of bright and colourful tropical fish, then you’ll want to invest in the best tropical fish tank to ensure all your fishy friends have plenty of space to spread out in. To be honest, no matter whether you have one fish or 100, the bigger you can go the better, so try to steer clear of anything under five-gallons.

2. Make sure you have plenty of fish tank accessories

We can’t stress enough how important it is to your fish’s wellbeing that you kit out their tank with a good range of accessories. Functional decorations are vital as they provide your fish with places to explore and hide out in, not to mention the fact that they’re highly stimulating, which helps to reduce boredom.

Alongside functional decorations that your fish can swim through and hide in, you’ll want to make sure their tank has plants of different sizes (again, these provide great coverage when they’re looking to hide), stones and wood, and sand for your fish to dig and forage around in. 

3. Provide them with the right company

We’ve all sat next to that person at a party who has bored us senseless the entire evening and believe it or not, our fish need to hang out with the right crowd too if they’re to stay happy and healthy. As mentioned earlier, make sure you have the correct size tank to comfortably accommodate your crew and do your research before buying fish so that you know which breeds can cohabitate peacefully.

You also want to ensure that you have the appropriate male-to-female ratio, as while most female fish of the same species will live together quite happily, male fish are notorious for fighting each other, so if you’re wanting to keep a mix of both, it’s best to have one male with two to three females. Exceptions to this would be some breeds, like the male betta, who prefer to live alone. 

4. Spend time with your fish

Yes, granted, you can’t exactly jump in the tank and swim around with your fish in order to get that all-important quality time in, but if you have an interactive species (like the betta) then you’re going to want to put in an appearance beside their tank every day - after all, some fish are known for being able to recognize their owners and will perform certain behaviors or tricks for them.

Try and get creative when it comes to spending time with your fishy friends. Some have been known to respond really well to their owners doodling on the glass of their fish tank with washable markers because they find the colors stimulating. Other people have trained their fish to swim through hoops using the best fish food as a reward.

What do goldfish eat? Well, as it turns out, our little finned friends have quite the expansive palette! Goldfish are one of the most popular pets all over the world, and they can live a surprisingly long life, especially when kept in the best fish tanks and fed the correct diet. 

Although most pet owners will likely buy commercially-available fish food for goldfish kept in tanks at home, they are actually omnivorous and can eat quite a wide variety of different foods. That includes things like algae, insects, vegetables and insect and fish eggs. In the wild, goldfish would be constantly foraging, but in fish tanks they’ll obviously be limited to what you give them. In fish ponds, they might have a few more options, but you can still supplement their food with extra treats.

It’s a good idea to give your goldfish different types of foods, not only will it give them the nutrients they need to be as healthy as possible, but it’s likely to also keep them happier than if they are only fed the same thing on repeat. Let’s find out more about the typical things that goldfish like to eat.

• How to make goldfish live longer
• Do fish sleep? How to tell and frequency

Can goldfish eat tropical fish food?

Goldfish are not particularly fussy, and in the wild will eat pretty much whatever they come across. If for some reason you have tropical fish food already - perhaps you also keep tropical fish (you shouldn’t keep them in the same tank - we recommend the best tropical fish tanks for our bright and bold finned friends), and you find yourself in a bit of a pinch, then you might be wondering if it’s safe for your goldfish to eat tropical fish food. 

The short answer here is yes, they can eat it. There should be no immediate problems with feeding your goldfish tropical fish food, but since it hasn’t been specifically formulated with this kind of fish in mind, it’s not a good long-term solution. You should stock up on more appropriate food next time you can. 

Will goldfish eat shrimp?

As already mentioned, goldfish are omnivores, which means they eat a wide variety of different foods - including other fish. 

That said, they are also limited by the size of their mouths. That means if you keep certain types of shrimp in the same tank as your goldfish, you could find that they make for a tasty snack. 

Goldfish which are kept in tanks and have an abundance of other easier-to-catch food available to them (such as flakes) may ignore shrimp that is kept in the same tank as them, but they might not. 

If you want to keep shrimp in the same tank as your goldfish, giving the shrimp lots of places to hide - such as artificial plants or these best fish tank accessories - from the goldfish will give them the best chance of survival.

For those using the best small fish tanks, it’s probably a good idea to keep shrimp out of the equation altogether.

Will goldfish eat other fish?

Again, as goldfish are omnivores the simple answer is yes - they will eat other fish. But, only if the other fish is smaller than the goldfish's mouths. Very small fish may be accidentally swallowed while the goldfish is moving around the tank looking for food.

That means it should be perfectly fine to keep other similar sized fish in the same tank as your goldfish. It’s important to make sure that fish of a similar temperament are kept together - if you’re not sure, make sure to ask your breeder. 

Goldfish are not particularly aggressive or prone to attack - so you shouldn’t find that goldfish start to eat other goldfish, or other similarly sized fish.

That said, to make the environment as stress-free as possible, you should make sure there’s plenty of space for each fish to occupy, and that the water temperature and quality is appropriate for the type of fish inside. For example, it’s not a good idea to keep tropical fish and goldfish together since tropical fish require much warmer water.

What’s the best food for goldfish?

If you’re not sure what the best fish food for goldfish is, then the key thing to think about is variety. In the pet store, you’ll likely be faced with a choice of flakes or pellets, while you may also see fish gel, which is closer to what goldfish might eat in the wild. 

All of these are usually good choices for goldfish. Be sure to look for those which are specifically formulated for goldfish if you can, or at the very least are designed for lots of different types of fish. 

You can also supplement this easy-to-use food with other types of food which should be a good treat for your goldfish. Examples of this include freeze dried options such as bloodworms, live food such as small shrimp, glassworms, snails and frozen options like algae, krill, shrimp and bloodworms. 

It might come as a surprise to learn that goldfish can also eat some of the same foods as us. Green vegetables like broccoli, potatoes, peas and zucchini can be fed - but they should be boiled first to make them nice and soft and easier to eat. 

With all this in mind, it’s also important to remember that you shouldn’t overfeed your goldfish. As constant scavengers, they will eat pretty much whatever is put in front of them - and won’t stop. You should also space out their feeding times, to ensure they don’t eat too much too quickly. 

It’s also important to make sure you’re regularly cleaning your goldfish’s tank to remove any remaining food to ensure the best quality of water for your fish. Keep your scaly friend happy and healthy and you might be surprised by how long goldfish live! 

Are you wondering how to make goldfish live longer? While they might not be considered in the same league as cats, dogs or even rodents, a pet goldfish requires some serious thought just the same. They can live a very long time, especially when kept in one of the best fish tanks, and you should be prepared to put in the work to keep them happy and healthy. 

How long do goldfish live, we hear you ask? Well, if you do all that you can to provide a good environment for your goldfish, then you’ll generally find that they live to be a good age. The average lifespan of a goldfish is 10-15 years, according to the RSPCA, so it’s important to be mindful of the commitment you’re making if you decide to buy one. 

That said, it’s also true that if kept in less-than-perfect conditions, a goldfish’s lifespan can be seriously reduced. By following some of the advice in this piece, you’ll find out how to make the most of your pet goldfish and keep them happy for as long as possible.

• Best fish tank: Stylish abodes for your aquatic amigos
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How long does a goldfish live in a bowl?

Although once a common place to keep a goldfish, these days, most people are pretty clued up that a bowl is not an ideal place for a goldfish to live. 

Just like it’s true that human beings can live in very cramped conditions, goldfish can tolerate it but they’ll be generally unhappy and usually not live as long as they could in a much better environment. 

A small goldfish bowl doesn’t give the animal any space to swim and explore, plus with very little water available, there’s not much in the way of surface area to create a good gas exchange for optimum health. There’s also unlikely to be room for a water filter or other accessories, plus the water will get dirty from waste and food very quickly.

As such, it’s estimated that a goldfish will only live for around 2-3 years if you place them in a bowl - a fraction of how long they might live in a much better environment. 

How long does a goldfish live in a tank?

In a fish tank, you’ll usually find that a goldfish lives much longer than in a bowl. It’s here where the 10-15 year average comes from, with some variation depending on a number of factors including the quality of care and the variety of goldfish. 

Goldfish will usually live longest in an outdoor pond, where the conditions of their natural habitat are best replicated. Here, the average lifespan rises to around 20 years. Of course, these are not particularly practical for the vast majority of fish owners, so a good tank is a fantastic alternative.

You should always go for the biggest fish tank you have space for, but there are some good options if you are looking for the best small fish tank, which you could consider if your space - or budget - is somewhat limited.

How do you make fish last longer?

There are a number of things you can do to give your goldfish the best chances of living as long as possible.

Making sure you have an appropriately large fish tank is the first and one of the best steps you can take. The minimum recommended size for a goldfish is 20 gallons, making sure you go bigger if you intend to house more than one goldfish (10 extra gallons per additional fish is a good rule of thumb). 

You should also invest in some of the best fish tank accessories for your goldfish. This is about far more than making your fish tank look pretty, it’s about giving your fish places to explore and hide, giving them the right kind of lighting conditions and keeping the tank clean and healthy. 

It’s very important to keep on top of a good cleaning schedule for your fish’s tank. A clean once every couple of weeks will ensure that waste and debris is removed. Investing in some types of real (rather than plastic or artificial) plants can also help with keeping the tank clean, so it’s worth doing some research into those. Read our advice on how to clean a fish tank to make sure you’re doing it in the best way.

Making sure that water quality is optimum is also a good way to extend a goldfish’s lifespan. Invest in a good quality water filter, and you can also buy testing kits to measure the composition of the tank’s water to make sure it’s the best quality. 

How do you know if a goldfish is happy?

Of course it’s a little bit harder to tell if a goldfish is happy compared to other pets such as dogs, cats and rodents. 

However there are still some signs that you can look out for which give you a good idea as to the wellbeing of your fish. Them swimming constantly is a good sign that they are doing well - any floating, sinking or bobbing around can be problematic. 

Eating their food in a timely fashion, and producing waste regularly is also a good sign. Reacting with some enthusiasm to special goldfish treats is also an indicator of happiness. 

The appearance of your goldfish is also a good clue as to their happiness and general health. If their scales and eyes are shiny, without any dull patches, this usually means the fish is healthy. 

If you are in any doubt about the health of your fish, be sure to speak to a qualified aquatic expert or vet.

Wondering how to care for a betta fish? You’re in the right place.The betta fish is one of the most popular fish breeds, loved for their bright fins and exuberant displays. By placing them in the best fish tank, they can live a happy, healthy and long life that will bring you lots of joy. 

That said, these pretty tropical fish take a little bit more care than something like an ordinary goldfish to really thrive. They need the right type of food, the right type of water and a variety of things in their tanks.

As with most fish, their lifespan really depends on their environment and how they are treated.

We’ll find out more about these creatures as we go through this piece, including how easy they are to take care of, what they need in their tank and how long they generally live for. Let’s dive in!

• Do fish sleep? How to tell and frequency
• How to choose the right pet fish – a beginner's guide

Is a betta fish easy to take care of?

Although a betta fish requires a little more work than some fish, as long as you do a good job of educating yourself beforehand, and get some advice from experts, then there’s no reason why looking after a betta fish can’t be a straightforward task.

It’s recommended that you invest in one of the best tropical fish tanks - ensuring you pick a good size tank, with the minimum recommended size being 2.5 gallons, but even better if you can pick up a 5 gallon or larger tank. Although a more expensive initial outlay, larger tanks are generally easier to maintain in the correct way for the betta fish - such as less cleaning, better nitrogen cycling and temperature. 

You may have seen betta fish being kept in extremely small bowls and even other containers such as vases and the like. While it’s true that a betta fish can technically live in tiny spaces (so can you), they’ll never prosper or thrive inside one. See the best small fish tanks if you don’t have too much space - just don’t be tempted to go too small. 

Male betta fish need to be kept alone (though they can live with other species), as two or more are likely to fight with each other. That could end in serious injury or even death so is obviously best avoided. Females can live together in groups - but you must ensure you have enough space in the tank for them all to have plenty of space. 

Betta fish: food

Betta fish need food which is specifically tailored towards them, because they are carnivorous (meat-eating). In the wild, betta fish would be drawn towards insects and larvae, so giving them something which comes close to that in a domestic environment is a good idea. 

You can buy food which has been developed for betta fish. Don’t be tempted to feed them standard fish food, or even tropical fish food - they need a protein rich diet which isn’t generally supplied in typical fish food. 

Treats, such as freeze-dried bloodworms can also be fed to your betta fish - it’s worth seeking advice from a breeder or betta fish specialist to ensure that they are getting a balanced diet.

Betta fish: water

As tropical fish, betta fish need warm water to thrive. The tank should be kept at a temperature ranging from 76 to 81 degrees (24-27 degrees celcius). As most domestic homes are not that warm, you’ll need to make sure you also invest in a water heater. 

It’s also important to ensure that the temperature is consistently monitored with a tank thermometer - for example in the summer months, you might not need to heat it as much.

A water filter is an important purchase too. With this, you can make sure the water is free from uneaten food, urine and faeces, which can build up over time and become toxic to the betta fish. Look for filters which offer a slow speed, as a gentle environment is better suited to this type of fish.

Another thing to remember is to make sure that the tank isn’t filled too full. This will ensure that the betta fish can access the surface for oxygen - something they can do along with getting it from the water. Make sure you have a lid on the tank however, as betta fish have been known to jump out of a tank.

What do betta fish need in their tanks?

As well as a water filter, there are other things that will help your betta fish to live a contented and healthy life.

To recreate their natural habitat, you should consider some of the best fish tank accessories. This could include underwater plants, decorations, rocks, sticks and other places to help them hide and feel secure, especially when sleeping. 

Direct sunlight shining on to the tank should be avoided - as it can raise the temperature too high - but a good lighting kit can help provide the betta fish with the light it needs during the day, making sure you turn it off at night when they need dark conditions. 

How long does a betta fish live?

This very much depends on the conditions that it is kept in - and it’s very similar to how long do goldfish live. On average, it’s said that a betta fish kept in captivity only lives to be around 3-4 years. 

However, there’s no reason why a betta fish can’t live much longer if kept in the best possible way, with the right conditions. Speak - at length - with your breeder, other owners and educate yourself on how to care for one before you invest.

It’s likely that if you keep a betta fish in a very small container (such as a bowl) that they will only live for around a year or so. Just like all pets, betta fish deserve to be owned by those who are dedicated to giving them a good life - so be sure you’re making the right choice before investing.

If you're a fish owner, you've probably wondered aloud, "why is my fish tank cloudy?" It's a common question and a problem that often plagues amateur aquarium owners even when they own the best fish tank. There are a few reasons why your fish tank is cloudy, and a lot of it has to do with bacteria, nutrients, and the objects you have inside your tank.

Cloudy fish water makes it difficult to see all your beautiful fish (as well as the best fish tank decorations you’ve placed in there) and the hard work you've put into creating a beautiful home for them. Whether you've got one of the best small fish tanks or one of the best tropical fish tanks, you want your water to be crystal clear for you and your fish.

While the appearance of cloudy water won't harm your fish, it can point to a chemical imbalance in the tank, which could be dangerous for your aquatic friends. Don't worry, in this article we'll answer the frequently-asked question of "why is my fish tank cloudy" while also providing you with tips on tricks on how to fix it.

Why is my fish tank cloudy?

There are quite a few reasons why your fish tank may be cloudy. Fish owners commonly notice cloudiness in a freshly filled or brand-new tank, but there are instances where a long-maintained tank can get cloudy.

According to vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan, “Cloudy fish tanks are usually caused by a bacterial bloom, the condition of the water you are adding to your aquarium, or dust from your substrate material.”

We'll take you through all the main reasons why your fish tank is cloudy – and we’ve also got advice on how to clean a fish tank.

1. Substrate and decoration

If this is a new aquarium setup that you’ve started from scratch, it could be whatever substrate you’re using. Substrate is the material you use to line the bottom of your tank, and many of them used for freshwater tanks are coated with epoxy – therefore you need to rinse them really well.

Substrates can also be incredibly dusty, so your best bet is rinsing the substrate (usually gravel) in small amounts to ensure you get all the materials off of it.

If your water is brownish, this could be due to the kind of decoration you added in there.

“A new aquarium may have cloudy water when you first set it up, which can happen if you haven’t thoroughly rinsed the gravel in the bottom of your tank to remove the dust before adding water,” advises vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan.

“It’s also essential that you soak your bogwood before setting up your tank to remove tannins that give a brownish tinge to the water.”

2. Type of water

The type of water you're using could also be contributing to the cloudiness. “If you live in an area of hard water, your supply will contain things like dissolved minerals and metals,” says Dr MacMillan. “This can make water initially appear cloudy when you add it to your aquarium.”

3. Overstocking your tank

Once you start adding fish to your tank, overstocking or adding fish too quickly can cause cloudiness.

“Too many fish in your tank can lead to cloudy or dirty-looking water,” says Dr MacMillan. “This can happen if you keep increasing your fish numbers too quickly without a long enough gap between additions.

“Adding livestock too quickly to a newly-cycled tank affects the tank’s balance. You should ideally leave 4–6 weeks between additions, making sure that a new tank has had a chance to properly cycle first.

“In an over-stocked tank, the good nitrifying bacteria start reproducing to manage and digest the excess waste being produced. The fast-multiplying bacteria can create a cloud affecting the way your tank water looks.”

4. An increase in nutrients

In an established tank, there could be a sudden increase in nutrients that leads to a rapid increase in bacteria. This can happen if fish or plants die in the tank.

“Dead fish or decaying plants can have a negative effect on your water quality,” says vet Dr Rebecca Macmillan. “This can occur when your fish are breeding but the fry are dying, or if you have a disease affecting your livestock.

Similarly, over-feeding can ramp up bacterial levels. “Feeding your livestock too much can lead to cloudy water,” warns Dr MacMillan. “This can be due not only to the debris created by the old food but also to changes in the bacterial population of your aquarium. A bacterial bloom may occur when you overfeed your fish.”

The retailer should be able to advise how often you should feed fish, and how much. There should be advice to follow on the packaging, too.

5. Algae growth

Cloudy or even green water in your tank can be due to an overgrowth of biofilm or algae on the glass, which can be caused by too much direct sunlight on the tank or leaving indoor lights on the tank for too long. Excess nutrients can also cause algae growth, as can phosphates and nitrates.

As always, if your water changes in any way, test the pH level to ensure your fish are safe.

Why is my fish tank cloudy after water change?

There are a few things that could cause your fish tank to go cloudy after a water change. If you haven’t added new substrates, fish, plants, or other objects, then all signs point to the water.

New water introduces new nutrients, so the bacteria that cause cloudy water could be feeding off of that. You can let this run its course, keeping an eye on aeration and pH levels, as the bacteria will eventually die out once its nutrient source is gone.

You could have a high level of what's called “dissolved constituents” in a freshly filled tank, which are things like heavy metals, silicates, or phosphates. You can test your water to see if this is the case – if you have a high pH, this could be the issue. You can buy pre-packaged aquarium water, or get a tap water conditioner or reverse-osmosis ilterto get rid of unwanted constituents.

“If you live in a hard water area, your tank could look cloudy when you fill your aquarium,” says Dr MacMillan. “To improve your water supply, you may need to use a reverse-osmosis filter or a water conditioner.” These can be a bit expensive, but they remove contaminants from the tank water and filter the contaminant-free water back into the tank.

How to fix a cloudy fish tank

The majority of cloudy aquariums can be cleared or improved by ensuring that 10 to 15 percent of the water is changed on a weekly basis, using a high-quality fish food and cleaning the gravel regularly. “Substrate residue will need to be removed from your tank with a gravel vacuum,” explains Dr MacMillan.

“While filters may extract some of the finer particles, the rest of the debris will settle at the bottom. This debris will continually be kicked up again by movement from your fish or subsequent water changes. Thoroughly rinsing your gravel will prevent this problem from occurring.”

You’ll also want to make sure you’re taking regular care of your aquarium with the best fish tank cleaners. “Tank maintenance is essential, so prune plants, remove dead material, and clean the glass regularly.”

If your water is green due to algae, you'll want to remove the tank from direct sunlight or keep the lights on in the room it's in for less time. Increasing your amount of aquarium plants will help keep the water nice and clear, as well as ensuring that you don't give your fish too much food, as waste will contribute to the growth of bacteria.

It’s also important to invest in a good filtration system. “Don’t forget to check that your filter is working effectively,” advises Dr MacMillan. “The filtration media may need cleaning or replacing. Some cheaper power filters use coarse foam which allows finer particles to pass through it and back into your tank water, so you may need to look at a different model that can meet your tank’s needs.”

Finally, consider your fish population. Overstocking can cause problems with the balance of your aquarium, so double-check the recommended stocking density for your tank. “More fish means more waste,” warns Dr MacMillan. “Not only could this affect the appearance of your water, but it may also negatively affect the health of your fish. You may also need to consider a larger tank if you have large species of fish, as these will generate more waste than smaller varieties.”

Keeping your fish tank crystal clear can be quite a task, but there are plenty of ways to make sure your fish are swimming through gorgeous clear waters.

Read next: How to help fish boredom or best types of fish for beginners.

Adding colorful tropical fish to your aquarium is a no-brainer if you love being mesmerized by beautiful colors and patterns. Many people, when they hear the word ‘fish’ think of dull grey fish or the classic ‘gold’, that’s actually orange, goldfish. But there is a variety of freshwater fish boasting gorgeously bold scales.

If you’re thinking of starting up a feature tank or you’re just really fascinated by exotic-looking fish then you’re going to want to invest in one of the best tropical fish tanks – and you’ll want to know how to clean a fish tank with one of the best fish tank cleaners. Our list below of pretty fish will help point you in the right direction of what style tank will suit your fish friends best. Details such as their diets, personality traits, and lifespan will help you figure out which colorful tropical fish suits you best.

Although fish aren’t like owning a dog where you have to take them out for regular walks, fish aren’t necessarily ‘low maintenance’ animals to keep as pets. A clean tank is essential for creating the right environment for your fish but it’s not the most glamorous task for a fish parent to take on. You’ll also need to invest in the right food for your fish breeds. We’ll look at how you can enrich your fish's environment later.

While you ponder if you could commit to owning your own small aquarium, take a look at what colorful tropical fish are out there.

Colorful tropical fish for your tank

1. Cherry barb

Cherry barbs are great fish for beginners, as they are quite hardy. You'll need to get more than one cherry barb, as they're a schooling-type fish and will move around a lot together in the tank. Otherwise, they may hide and become shy. Make sure that your ratio of males to females is correct – male cherry barbs are quite aggressive during mating season, so don't let them outnumber the females. The ratio should be one male to every two females. Cherry barbs like heavily planted tanks, with low light, and an aquarium temperature around 75°F (24°C).

2. Neon tetra

Neon tetras can live in a freshwater tropical aquarium, and their bright blue and red colorway will liven up your tank. Native to South America, they live in murky water and need to be bright in order to help keep track of eachother. They are a breed of fish who normally travels in schools of 10-15, so keep that in mind, and they don't do well with larger, aggressive fish as they're so small.

3. Discus

Discus are beautifully regal and bright, and there are several species of them. They can grow to be quite big, so it's recommended that you have at least a 75-gallon aquarium – tall ones are best for their body shape, as they can grow quite tall.

They are calm and peaceful but can be aggressive towards each other during spawning. If they become bullies, you'd have to remove the more submissive fish as discus are so large and could injure them. They are freshwater fish that prefer water around 82–86°F, with broadleaf plants and driftwood to mimic the flooded forests from which they're from.

4. Paradise fish

Paradise fish are freshwater fish that can be a bit aggressive, so you'll only want to introduce them to your tank if you're a veteran fish owner. These colourful tropical fish are considered to be very active, and are usually only aggressive to their own species, but not always.

Paradise fish can usually be found closer to the top of the water in the tank, as these fish have an organ that lets them breathe air! They like a warm tank between 70–80°F with plenty of plants.

5. Betta fish

Betta fish are an iconic colorful tropical fish, and very popular home aquariums. They're brightly colored, energetic, and have beautiful flowing fins. These freshwater fish are from Southeast Asia, and have grown in popularity over the last several years. However, they aren't as easy to look after as some may think and are notoriously mistreated in the fish industry. As such, you'll want to be somewhat experienced before you add them to your tank and read up on how to care for betta fish.

Betta fish can be aggressive, especially males, so choose their tankmates carefully – they aren't fond of other aggressive fish, or ones that are particularly right in color. They’re often kept on their own and as long as they’ve got plenty of enrichment you don’t need to worry too much about whether betta fish get lonely. They enjoy hiding and exploring in their tanks, which should be full of warm water, and they thrive in larger tanks.

6. Flowerhorn Cichlid

These striking freshwater fish are so unusual-looking and bright that they're a popular fish choice for home aquarium owners despite their aggressive nature. Flowerhorn Cichlids need to be in a tank with at least one other of the same species, and can be a bit expensive (between $40–80), so you'll want to consider that when choosing your fish.

They can bite and chase other fish species, although they move quite slowly due to their large bodies. The breed loves to claim territories in nooks and crannies in rocks or caves, so make sure their tank includes that, and they need a very large tank due to their size – around 150 gallons for two of them.

7. Angelfish

Angelfish are beautiful fish, with flat bodies and long, elegant fins that resemble angel wings (these are very delicate, so avoid sharp-edged objects in any tank that has angelfish in it). These flatwater fish prefer calmer waters, so they won't fit in well if you have a filtration system in your tank that kicks up a current. They are peaceful fish who enjoy being with a few of their own, so you'll need to ensure you have enough space for them to grow and thrive. They prefer warm, tropical water tanks with standard lighting.

8. Clownfish

You know these fish well thanks to Finding Nemo. The clownfish is a popular reef fish that is a great fit for tropical tanks – but these are saltwater fish, so they require more effort than the other freshwater fish on this list.

Clownfish are peaceful fish, but they are aggressive towards other species of clownfish (of which there are at least 30), so make sure you only have one clownfish species in your tank. They are weak swimmers and need to have places to hide and feed, and you'll need your tank to have anemones in it to support them, which are harder to keep than the fish themselves. Anemones require specific lighting, a large tank, and water between 74 and 80°F.

9. Blue Tang

And after Nemo comes Dory, a blue tang with stunningly neon blue and yellow coloring. They have very specific tank requirements, are prone to skin diseases, and can be aggressive to other fish. Blue tangs need space as they are very active, but they also enjoy darting in and out of rocks, so the tank will need to be big enough to accommodate that.

They can be fairly well-behaved with other fish, but can get aggressive with other species of tang. They are saltwater fish that need tank temperatures of around 82°F.

10. Endler's

Endler's or Endler's livebearer, are tiny and vibrant freshwater fish that are pretty easy to care for. They look like colorful guppies, and have psychedelic patterns that will add some trippy vibes to your tank. Endler's don't need a very big tank – a 20-gallon is more than enough for around four of them, but you'll have to increase the size if you add more fish.

They like high pH water, can tolerate a pretty wide range of temperatures (between 64–84°F), and need live plants as they provide both food and shelter.

How can I provide enrichment to my colorful tropical fish?

Companion animal vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan warns against being lulled into thinking fish are super-easy pets.

“Certainly, compared to other animals like dogs or rabbits, tropical fish could be considered pretty low-maintenance,” she explains. “After all, they don’t need exercising, grooming, or regular vet trips! However, this doesn’t mean we should be complacent about the needs of our fishy friends. It is important that we strive to give them the best quality of life possible, with a well-cared-for aquarium and varied diet.”

The best fish foods go beyond pellets and flakes.

“Offering a variety of different food types appropriate for the species of your fish will help with their mental well-being as well as their physical health,” continues Dr MacMillan. “As a fellow fish enthusiast, I know that freeze-dried or frozen insects usually go down well, in addition to their usual flakes or pellets.

“Some fish may also enjoy nibbling on bits of fruit or veg occasionally. Rotating different food types can help to prevent boredom. Slow feeders are also worth considering so that your fish can graze on and off rather than having one or two frenzied sessions a day.”

According to Dr MacMillan, the best way to provide enrichment for tropical fish is to mimic their natural environment as much as possible. “This means providing plenty of real plants, hiding places, and other structures within a decent-sized tank.”

Enrichment also means varying up the kinds of structures and toys at your fish’s disposal. “It is possible to purchase interactive toys that some fish might find stimulating,” she adds. “Floating toys or balls can provide interest, as can bubble-releasing toys. Features for the tank like shipwrecks and ornamental rocks can be added and changed every month or so to keep things fresh and interesting.”

Finally, it’s not just about what’s in your tank, but also who. “Making sure that the social needs of your fish are also met is important to their mental well-being,” says Dr MacMillan. “For example, shoaling species should always be kept in groups which will help to keep them stimulated and display natural behaviours.”

If any of these colorful tropical fish has taken your fancy, don’t forget to check out the best fish tank decorations. Not only do these provide the perfect living environment for your fish but they also add even more flair to your already exotically decked-out aquarium.

Are you a novice fish keeper keen to learn more? Check out the best types of fish for first time fish owners and tips for taking care of fish. We've also rounded up 32 types of freshwater fish that you can keep as a pet.

If you’re thinking of getting a new pet and you’re wondering how long do goldfish live, you may be surprised to learn that these fishy creatures have a surprisingly long lifespan - especially when kept in the best fish tanks.

Ensuring that your goldfish is kept in the best possible condition can mean that your fishy friend lives a very long time indeed - with some even reported to have lived several decades (though that’s a rarity). 

The lifespan of a goldfish will depend on numerous factors. These include the variety of goldfish, the size of the bowl, tank or pond they are kept in and the quality of the conditions (such as water quality). 

Let’s find out more about these plucky little creatures. 

Average lifespan of a goldfish 

According to the RSPCA, the average lifespan of a goldfish is 10-15 years, so you should be prepared to look after one for a long time when you buy them. Some varieties living in the best conditions have even been known to live for as long as 30 years - and there’s even some outliers who have gone on for longer than that.

The purchase of a goldfish should be as careful and considered as you would with any other pet. Though it was once common for them to be given away as prizes at funfairs and the like, today that practice is generally frowned upon for the welfare of the animals and the potential responsibility owners must take on. To that end, take care to research the variety you intend to buy, asking for help from where you buy them for the best conditions to keep your goldfish in. 

It’s also very wise to make sure you purchase a healthy goldfish in the first place. Make sure that the tank that the goldfish is living in isn’t overcrowded with too many fish, make sure the fish is swimming around with ease and that they are nice and bright in color.

You should also ask how big the goldfish is likely to grow before making your purchase, to ensure that you have the correct amount of space for them. Goldfish are happy to live alone, but they’re also very happy to be in groups. If you intend to buy more than one goldfish, either straightaway or further down the line, be sure to buy a big enough tank to accommodate how many fish you eventually intend to have. 

How long do goldfish live in bowls?

The answer to this very much depends on the size of the bowl - or indeed, what you consider a bowl in the first place. In theory, it’s perfectly possible for a goldfish to live in a bowl for as long as they might live in a tank, or even the wild or in a pond, but, as a general rule, fish kept in bowls will not live as long. 

Certain goldfish species will grow to very large sizes, and a small bowl simply won’t give them the space they need to swim around. It’s also true that goldfish like to be kept in groups, so keeping one on its own in a bowl can also be detrimental to their lifespan. 

A small bowl also can’t offer the best type of water quality, so that can also have an impact on the lifespan of a goldfish. It’s a good idea instead to invest in the best small fish tank to keep your goldfish in the best and happiest condition.Make sure to also stock up on the best fish tank accessories to make it the best possible environment. 

Although it’s possible to mix goldfish with tropical fish, it’s not generally advised for the benefit of either the goldfish or the tropical fish. If you’re wanting to have both, we recommend you invest in one of the best tropical fish tanks and keep your two fish families separate. 

How long do goldfish live in ponds?

As a general rule, goldfish will live longer when they have the benefit and freedom of more space and natural daylight such as that found in a pond - especially as it more closely replicates how a goldfish would live in the wild.

In these conditions, it’s reported that goldfish can live around 20 years on average. Though again, some will live longer, while certain varieties of goldfish might not live as long. It’s important to consider this length of time when buying fish for a pond - especially since it’s obviously much harder to take a pond with you than a fish tank if you were to move home.

Remember also that certain goldfish can grow to very large sizes, so it’s important to make sure that the pond isn’t too small, or too crowded with too many fish. If you’re not sure, you should always ask for help from the supplier of the goldfish who should be able to provide you with the relevant information.

What was the oldest goldfish?

Although the typical lifespan of a goldfish is 5-10 years, especially those kept in bowls or tanks, for those kept in the best conditions, there’s every possibility of living several decades. 

According to Guinness World Records, the oldest known goldfish was 43 years old when they died. The fish was called Tish and owned by Hilda and Gordon Hand from North Yorkshire - Hilda’s son won the goldfish at a fairground stall in 1956.

Another goldfish, Goldie, apparently lived to be 45 years old (according to oldest.org) - but since there was no proof, this fish is not included in the official records book.  

We know mammals love to get some shut-eye but do fish sleep as well? If you've invested in the best fish tank and have found yourself spending hours watching your finned friends moving about, it's a question that you may have found yourself pondering. And the general consensus is that, yes, they do. Even if they are not sleeping in the exact same way as humans and other mammals, we certainly know they like to get some rest!

One of the biggest challenges in assessing how fish sleep is their lack of a neocortex. When humans sleep, this area of the brain becomes less active so sleep patterns are clear to see. But it's not possible to check this out in fish so scientists look for other patterns, such as how their metabolic processes slow and activity reduces. There is also evidence of waves in the dorsal pallium part of a fish's brain.

Of course, sleep can make a fish more prone to predation so they remain alert to danger while also seeking safe spots where they can. One fish – the parrot fish – goes a little further than that and (gross alert!) spends an hour creating a mucus cocoon around itself. This offers a level of protection from parasites.

Below, you'll find everything you've ever wanted to know about the sleep patterns of fish, including how to know if your fishy friend is pushing up zzz's and how long they tend to sleep for. Let's dive in...

• How to choose the right pet fish
• Best small fish tank: Petite pads for your tiny tribe
• Best fish tank stands

How do you know if a fish is sleeping?

It's not easy to determine if a fish is sleeping because they're not tucking themselves under covers, snoring loudly or even closing their peepers (simply because they don't have eyelids!). 

But they do become less responsive and, in some cases, you can clearly see that they are simply not moving. If you're staring at a fish for a few minutes and they haven't stirred, chances are they are asleep. Likewise if you're trying to feed a fish and they don't immediately respond, then they're likely to be at rest.

A fish's position also generally indicates a period of sleep. There's no set “bed” for every fish but if you see one motionless at the bottom of their tank or floating towards the top (usually with their bodies tilted upwards by a small degree), then they are generally sleeping. And if you look really closely at their gills, then you may see that their breathing has significantly slowed. 

But how are they ensuring water flows over the gills so that they can take in oxygen to pass through their body? Well, the gills are moving at just the right speed to ensure the fish will remain alive during this restful period. 

In some cases, they will also use their pectoral fins which are just behind the gills to ensure a sufficient movement of water. With all that said, some fish (pelagic species such as tuna and sharks) do need to keep swimming while they sleep and, during this time, they shut down half of their brain at a time to ensure they get sufficient rest.

When do fish sleep?

Fish are very much like humans. They have an internal clock and display circadian rhythms. Many are also diurnal which means they sleep more during the night than the day. Some such as catfish, knife fish and loaches are nocturnal, however, but it nevertheless shows that they slip into a pattern.

What this means, though, is that the majority of those little swimmers are getting some sleep when the lights are turned off and the household is going to bed. If you want to see this with your own eyes, you'll have to get up in the middle of the night and take a look inside the tank – you'll find the fish are not moving.

For this reason, you should help your fish stick to their sleep cycle by keeping the lights off at night (saving yourself some money in the process!). By keeping the lights on, you could end up depriving your fish of some sleep, forcing them to catch up at some other point which isn't healthy over a period of time and not advisable.

How long does a fish sleep?

Most of what scientists know about fish sleep patterns comes from studying zebrafish. They have a nervous system and genetics similar to humans and it's also possible to look at their brain cells via a microscope because their skin is translucent. 

Through such studies, scientists have found evidence of sleep patterns similar to our own including slow-wave sleep rapid eye movement, or REM. They also sleep for roughly the same amount of time: about 10 hours (well, roughly the same if we get a nice lie-in at the weekends!).

Can fish sleep upside-down?

If you've ever owned a loach fish, then you may have become alarmed at seeing it resting upside down. But this fish is known to sleep (and even swim) in this position and it's more likely to do so when it feels comfortable in its environment. 

Lots of other fish will also sleep on their side, such as the Betta fish and you should only really become concerned if fish are upside down or on their side for too long a period of time because it can be a sign of illness.

It's also worth pointing out that most fish will sleep upright. A key test to determine if something is wrong is to see how easily they are stirred and become responsive again. That said, never startle a sleeping fish. Just drop some of the best fish food in the tank or switch on the light.    

A leaking fish tank is every aquarist’s worst nightmare. A fish tank can be a wonderful addition to your home, but it needs to be maintained so there is no leaking and your fish stay safe and healthy.

Leaks are no joke. The damage can not only be expensive, but it puts your fish at risk. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent leaks and, if they do happen, to deal with them as quickly as possible so that the glass does not crack or break, ending in disaster. 

After all, a pinhole leak can turn into a much bigger problem if left. Read on to find out how to fix a leaking fish tank before it’s too late.

• Best fish tank: Stylish abodes for your aquatic amigos
• How to clean a fish tank
• Best small fish tank: Petite pads for your tiny tribe

Why do aquariums leak?

Leaks in aquariums are not usually from cracks in the glass. Instead, they tend to stem from sealant that has either not been put on properly or has become worn over time. 

The sealant is what holds the sides of the tank together so if it is peeling away from glass, water will leak out. However, leaks can also be caused by cracks forming where the glass is weak.

If the tank is not on an even surface or if there is a fault with the water pump the pressure can cause cracks at the bottom of the tank. Cracks can also occur from impacts such as children hitting the glass from the outside, or boulders or driftwood from within the tank.

How to find the leak in a fish tank

There are a number of ways to find the leak in your tank:

• If the leak has been caused by impact or there’s a big puddle under the tank you should be able to see the source of the leak. If not, keep a check on the water level and if you notice it has dropped carry out a leak test. Dry the tank and then use a marker to mark the level of the water. Then fill the tank with more water and keep an eye on it for the next 24 to 48 hours. If it is still leaking, the crack is below the marker.
• You may also want to inspect the silicone holding the tank together. If you find peeling silicone that is particularly worn, you’ll probably find your leak too. If the crack is at the bottom of the tank another way to find the leak is by drying off the tank and then wrapping a paper towel around it to find the wet spot.
• You can also use food coloring or water-based dye that is not toxic to your fish to spot where the water is flowing out.
• If this doesn’t work, take your fish and accessories out of the tank and put them into a holding tank or bucket with a filter or air stone. Then take a look at how much water is left in the tank. If it is still leaking the leak will be below the water line still.

Once you have found it you need to decide whether you can fix it as is, or whether you need to drain the tank to repair it. 

Materials for fixing a fish tank

• Containers to hold your fish
• Felt tip or marker
• Paper towels or a soft cloth
• Single-edged razor blades or sharp tool for removing sealant
• Acetone
• Non-toxic 100% silicone sealant
• Caulking gun
• Emery cloth or silicon carbide sandpaper
  

How to fix a leaking fish tank from the bottom by draining it

If the leak is at the bottom of the tank it’s best to drain it before repairing the tank. Remove the fish first and place them in a holding tank or buckets with a filter. Next remove all of the décor and the water. Once this is done continue with the same steps as below for fixing the leak. 

How to fix a fish tank leaking from the top without draining it

If the leak is at the top of the fish tank or above the water line, you don’t have to drain the tank completely to fix it. Just drain enough so you are able to clean and dry the area around the leak. Do this using a paper towel or a soft cloth. Then follow the steps for repairing the leak.

• Scrape off the old sealant using a razor blade. Make sure to do this carefully so it all comes off, as otherwise the new sealant will not stick properly to the tank. If you haven’t drained the tank make sure not to drop any sealant into the water.
• Using a damp cloth and acetone clean the area around the leak to get rid of any residue. Wipe it dry with a paper towel and then leave to dry completely for 15 minutes. 
• Using a caulking gun, if possible run a line of silicone along the damaged seam from the inside of the tank as this is more effective than applying it on the outside. Then use your finger or a caulking tool to smooth it down so it covers the leak completely. You must use non-toxic 100% silicone as otherwise you could poison your fish. 
• Leave the sealant to dry for 24 to 48 hours. Once it is fully dry refill the tank and check again for leaks. 
• Finally, restore your fish and décor to the tank. 

How to prevent your fish tank from leaking 

You can avoid having to fix a leak by ensuring you do everything you can to prevent it happening in the first place. Here are a few preventative measures:

• When you buy your fish tank make sure you check it for leaks before putting your fish in it and be careful when buying second hand that you check the glass and silicone carefully.
• When setting up your aquarium make sure it is level so that the water pressure is distributed evenly.
• Make sure you buy a non-return valve for your air pump so that if the power goes out, the pump doesn’t start pumping out water instead of air. 
• Check the state of the tank’s silicone, clean and inspect the glass and carry out leak checks regularly.
• If you do get a leak make sure you fix a large enough area so that it doesn’t happen again, use enough silicone sealant and leave it to dry for long enough. Check the glass edges are aligned evenly and that the tank is on a flat surface, and don’t fix it in humid conditions.

Shopping for the best small fish tank for your finned friends may sound like an easy enough task, but believe it or not, even investing in the most petite pad requires a little bit of background knowledge to make sure you're choosing one that will suit both your home and your fish. The good news is, we have everything you need to know right here to help you select the best fish tank for your water-based buddies. 

One of the first things you'll want to consider is whether you plan on having a small or a large fish family. If you're confident that you only want somewhere in the vicinity of one to five fish, then a small fish tank is all you'll need to comfortably house your little school of fish. But, if you already have a feeling that you're going to want to add more finned friends to the party at some stage, we recommend you go straight for one of the best tropical fish tanks as these offer the space you'll need when you choose to expand. 

If you decide a small fish tank is for you, it's worth bearing in mind that even a few fish still require plenty of room to swim about in - the last thing you want is anything too cramped as this will cause both their physical and mental health to suffer. For one or two fish, a three to five gallon tank is likely going to work well, but once you get past that number, you'll want to look at investing in an 8 to 10 gallon tank to make sure that each fish has enough space. 

And it's not just the fish that need to fit in there either! You'll want to factor in enough room to add in a few of the best fish tank accessories. While we often think of toys and accessories as something we'd buy for dogs and cats, mental and physical stimulation and enrichment is equally important for our water-based buddies when it comes to keeping them happy and healthy. 

Finally, while a small fish tank is clearly compact, don't let the petite size fool you into thinking you'll have less work on your hands than if you had a larger tank. It will still need the water changed regularly, the filter checked frequently, and a good clean every two to three weeks to ensure your fishy friends thrive.

To help you find the right homely habitat for your little ones, we've rounded up a selection of the best small fish tanks, with a variety of sizes to suit every budget. Let's take a look... 

PetsRadar's pick of the best small fish tanks

Sleek and elegant, MarineLand’s upright tank looks great wherever you put it. Five gallons isn’t a lot of water, but it’s enough for a thriving community of colorful fish as long as you stay on top of filtration and maintenance.

MarineLand’s tank contains a three-stage filter that uses replaceable activated carbon cartridges – you’ll go through one every month or so – and also comes with a Tetra submersible heater that’s pre-set to a suitable temperature. 

The pack of three artificial plants that comes in the kit is enough to be starting off with, but you may find you want more to provide a complete-looking display. The back of the tank is black, so a wall of greenery that will push fish forward where you can see them best will look good. Thanks to the height of the tank, it’s possible to use taller aquarium plants, which can look especially attractive.

The tank sits on a sturdy plastic base, held in place by its own weight, and the front and sides are made from one piece of seamless glass. Lighting comes from blue and white LEDs, giving a natural shimmering look to the water as it circulates as well as a moonlit appearance if switched on at night. 

One reason we like this tank so much is the ease with which the equipment can be accessed – a glass canopy slides toward the rear of the aquarium, opening it up for both feeding and maintenance. The only downside to this is that the filter compartment takes away 2” from an already small tank, and if you're using live plants then debris from these can collect around the filter, becoming hard to remove.

With its curved front and bright LED lights, Tetra’s Crescent will stand out wherever you place it. Moulded from one piece of acrylic, with a separate lid and base, the curving front enhances the visibility of your fish.

Inside, you get the popular Tetra Whisper power filter, but no heater is included. This is fine if you’re only going to keep room-temperature fish, but anyone who dreams of colorful tropical fish will need to add a heater to bring the temperature up to around 77F. 

The slim black cover contains the LED lights that are bright enough to encourage live plants to grow, but plastic plants will be equally at home. Their intensity sets off the colors of fish nicely too. There’s also an uncovered oval in the cover for feeding – cautious owners might want to cover this with a mesh panel to avoid jumping fish accidentally using it as an exit.

Filtration media comes in the form of disposable Bio-bags, which can be switched out easily enough from the black, cylindrical filter. They have a dual-sided mesh to catch floating debris, a layer of carbon to remove odors and discoloration, and incorporate Tetra’s Water Clarifier to prevent the buildup of particles in the water and on the glass. The Whisper filter is a popular choice, and if properly maintained will do its job with the minimum of noise.

This certainly isn't the cheapest small fish tank on the market, but it's definitely one of the best! If you're a fan of smart gadgets, investing in this habitat for your finned friends is well worth considering. 

The color of the LED lights is fully adjustable via the app, so you can seamlessly change the scheme from red to yellow to green to purple at the push of a button. You'll find a mix of cool and warm colors, but no matter which one you choose, the light remains soft to prevent your fish from feeling any discomfort.

The aquarium filter works by using a combination of physical and biological filtration which improves the effect. The cotton filters do a great job of removing impurities and fish manure, improving the water quality and ensuring the fish tank remains a clean and healthy environment. It also generates abundant bubbles and water flow to provide sufficient oxygen for the fish.

We love that this fish tank comes with a dinosaur fossil and aquatic plants, so you have everything you need to get started. With a five gallon capacity, you'll find this tank ideal for betta fish, angelfish, and goldfish.

Betta fish are a popular choice for emergent fishkeepers, and due to their ability to breathe from the surface using an organ known as the labyrinth. The best-known of the genus is the beautiful Siamese fighting fish – only to be kept on its own or with carefully chosen tank mates – but there are many other bettas that don’t display the same level of ferocity. 

The popular perception of bettas is that, because of their breathing habits, they can be kept in a small enclosure, but they thrive in five-gallon tanks such as this one. It’s worth noting that Bettas, as with many fish, require a water temperature of 76-81F, so if your room is cooler, look into a tank with a heater, or add one to this kit.

The tank itself is acrylic, but in contrast to the scratch-resistant materials available elsewhere this one is easily scratched. This isn’t an issue once the tank is set up, but can be during delivery. The tank ships in its own container for protection against scratches, but accidents happen. The curved front looks great once it is filled and lit, and the Aqueon power filter provided takes up little space. 

Looking incredible on a shelf or desk, this Koller tank offers seven different colors of LED light and four transitions to show off your fish and really attract attention. 

The design of this tank is so simple as to be an immediate winner – a simple rounded rectangle of acrylic, with no seams or sharp corners whatsoever. You can see the fish from any angle, as the power filter only takes up a small amount of space at the top of the tank’s rear.

This filter takes simple dual-sided cartridges that wrap activated carbon in a poly-fiber floss that strains out floating particles while the carbon takes care of water discoloration and odors. It’s worth noting that the filter is quite powerful, so anyone intending to keep long-fined or weak-swimming species might like to place a piece of mesh over the inlet to prevent fish being sucked inside.

That single-piece construction means the tank is more-or-less leakproof, and with the bright LEDs shining down makes the tank perfect for places where it might get a little knock now and then. As with all tanks, it’s not going to put up with repeated pummelling, but anyone considering a tank for a child’s room would do well to add this one to their list. 

The lights can be changed to seven colors: amber, aqua, blue, green, purple, red, and white. They can be locked to a single shade, or set to cycle. 

GloFish products may not be to everyone’s taste, designed as they are to display the almost garish colors of the company’s own line of extra-bright fish (bred with a fluorescence gene, they glow under the right lighting conditions). To this end, you get LED lights that emit the exact shade of blue necessary to set off a colorful display in the right fish, but which may not suit those sourced from elsewhere.

The kit itself is a nice one, however. The tank is a seamless acrylic design with a curved front that should show off its inhabitants to their best. The Tetra Whisper filter included is a popular model that will keep the water clear and is easy to service, dropping a new cartridge in every month or so and disposing of the old one. 

GloFish makes plenty of products to accessorize your aquarium too, with plastic plants that will glow under its lights, ornaments, and even colored gravel to add some interest to the bottom of the tank. The lights themselves are neatly hidden in a slim black hood that should help reduce evaporation and protect from the heartbreaking danger of fish jumping to their doom.

Ideal for low-light environments or even as a night-light in a bedroom, the GloFish tanks are a unique experience. 

If you're looking for a decent starter kit for your small family of finned friends, then this 8-gallon tank could be just the ticket. With a decorative 3D rockery mountain background, one 7W 110GPH internal power filter pump and one colored led aquarium light, you'll have everything you need to get going.

Ideal for the home or office, the curved glass design looks sleek and stylish and is suitable as a fresh water or salt water aquarium. It's easy to set up and maintain and requires no special stand with cushion pads on the bottom to prevent it from slipping and sliding about.

One word of caution though - if you want to use the power filter, you'll want to stick to fish longer than two inches as smaller fish may get sucked into the filter. The filter itself, while powerful, is super quiet and features a two-stage process that ensures the water in the tank stays clean and fresh.

If you're looking for a tank that's not too big, not too small, then the Aqueon LED Fish Aquarium Starter Kit is a great buy. At 10 gals, it's roomy enough to accommodate your finned friends, whilst still being fairly compact.  

There's some fantastic features on here, including the addition of a preset heater, LED lighting and LED Pro Filter that flashes with a red light to let you know it's time to change the cartridge, but be aware that its higher flow rate might be too powerful for some types of fish. 

What's particularly favorable about this tank is that it really includes everything you need to get started, minus the decorations you'll want to pick up as an extra to make the aquatic landscape truly interesting for your pets. 

All in all, it's a decent tank for beginners, but experts may be inclined to look elsewhere and you may find yourself upgrading in a few years or so to a larger tank.  

How to choose the best small fish tank

Once full of water, even the smallest fish tank can be surprisingly heavy, so make sure you are sitting it in a position that will be able to take the weight long-term. Tanks smaller than four or five gallons aren’t really worth considering, as they will not be able to give your fish the space and turnover of water they will need to live a happy life. 

Modern curved-front tanks look great, those that are curved all the way around look even better, and the acrylic that makes these curves possible also means that they’re lighter when not filled.

It’s important not to over-stock your tanks, even if the water is churned up by a powerful filter, so try to stick to the old rule about having one inch of fish to one gallon of water, excluding tails. So in a five gallon tank, you can have five inch-long fish. Modern filtration may allow you to push this rule to its limit, but the more fish you have, the more important it is that you carry out regular maintenance to keep the water in top condition. Most cartridge-based filters expect you to change the cartridge every month, but this may drop to every two weeks if you’ve got a lot of messy fish.

Selecting the best fish tank stand may not have been high on your list when you decided to create an aquarium. Even so, it's an important consideration and one that will, sooner rather than later, be something you will consider. After all, a decent stand is going to offer a stable base upon which to sit your tank and this will keep your finned friends safe and secure.

There are lots of options on the market and it may be worth thinking about a stand at the same time as you invest in the best fish tanks – that way, you can be sure of a good match and take into account the strength of the stand that you're going to need. If you're in the market for one of the best small fish tanks, for example, then an inexpensive, basic four-legged stand will suffice but do consider storage space too. Stands with drawers and shelves will cost a little more but they're certainly practical.

Likewise, if you've decided to buy one of the best tropical fish tanks, their sheer size and weight means you'll need to think carefully about whether a stand will support its weight. Stands for these large tanks often give you a way of hiding a mass of cabling and they'll have a lot of storage space for fish food and the other essential equipment needed to keep fish. Given you're likely to be displaying your fish tank in the main areas of your home, this makes for an attractive, tidy option.

But what materials should you be considering? Well, it's always a bonus if a stand looks great and, in this respect, nothing really beats wood which can add a touch of sophistication to your home. Wood will need a lot of polish to remain looking good, though, so if you want a material that's easier to maintain, consider steel. It's far easier to clean but it also scratches more easily and doesn't always look as attractive. 

With all of that in mind, though, it's time to take the plunge. Here we select the best fish tank stands for 2023 and we're sure there's one for all situations and budgets.

PetRadar's pick of the best fish tank stands

This large Pets at Home fish tank stand is gorgeous and would look great in any home, especially if you want to make your aquarium a feature. Made from sturdy wood, this fish tank stand can hold aquariums up to 125 litres, and it’s the perfect height for admiring your fish when sat down.

We love the warm walnut finish that contrasts nicely with a lit-up tank. For an aquarium of this size, you are likely to want lots of accessories to go with it. This fish tank stand has storage space underneath for any products, fish food and accessories, which can be hidden away nicely by the double doors. Overall, this is a quality product that is built to last.

Display your fish tank in style without breaking the bank with this modern Wave Coated Wood Cabinet. This is a quality item which will make a welcome addition to any fish lover's home, but with the price tag of a much less impressive looking stand.

This open-plan cabinet measuring 60x32x70 cm is strong enough to take the weight of most medium and large aquariums. It's designed to match up with rectangular 60-liter rectangular aquariums, but reviewers have pointed out that it has supported their 70-litre tanks without any issues. For a perfect marriage you can pair it with aquariums from the Wave Riviera and Basic range, but it's suitable for similar shaped tanks too.

If you are looking for a stand with storage there is a shelf as part of the design, but remember that what you put on it will be in plain view. You may not want to spoil its contemporary look with old packets of opened fish food, but it's there if you need it. Overall, this is a great inexpensive yet attractive stand that will make a great feature in any home.

If you’re not looking for anything too comprehensive, then this black fish tank stand from Tetra is simple and reliable. Black suits almost any home decor and this stand is sturdy enough to hold a tank of up to 80 litres.

While it looks fairly small, this fish tank actually has a generous amount of concealed storage in the middle, with height adjustable shelves so you can tailor it to your liking. Here you can discreetly tuck away fish food and other accessories.

Users found this product easy to assemble, but recommend putting some cushioning under this fish tank stand to provide stability and protect your flooring.

This fish tank stand is designed for classic biorb fish tanks, and while it might seem simple, users say the stand is super sturdy and really makes their biorb a feature in their home. It doesn’t have any storage space, but this would be the perfect size for supporting your fish tank in smaller spaces such as bedrooms or kitchens.

The stand is made from MDF and users found it easy to assemble. However, this stand may not be suitable for saltwater tanks due to the temperature, which could make the wood damp.

For those with smaller tanks, this is a sleek and stylish cabinet that can make your tank look the part. It looks high quality with its walnut wooden sides and top, and a contrasting black gloss cabinet door.

However, if you prefer to mix it up, the door is reversible so that the entire unit becomes matching walnut. This product comes flat packed and is easy to assemble and will hold a tank of up to 28 liters. It’s suitable for coldwater tanks, but if you add a heater to this stand, it can become suitable for tropical fish tanks too.

The curvy and compact design of this fish tank stand makes it a stylish addition to any room. It has a wide and sturdy top surface with a thickness of 1.5cm. This stand can hold a tank of up to 57 liters, but of course, you can place smaller tanks on this unit too.

The four feet keep it sturdy on any surface and its shelf makes two large open compartments at the front, which can either be used for fish tank storage or any other type of storage. This single unit design would suit smaller rooms and comes in both black and white to suit your style preferences. 

If you're looking for a strong and sturdy stand that can easily accommodate a 40-gallon tank, then this durable steel option with its sleek and modern design is well worth considering.

Measuring 36.5 x 18.5 x 29.5 inches and weighing 32.15 pounds, it features adjustable feet for leveling before you add your tank and it's also super easy to assemble with just a few bolts going in each corner.

One thing worth noting is that the steel is easily scratched, so you'll want to be careful putting your tank on top and there's no solid self for storage. But aside from those two minor drawbacks, this is an incredibly well designed, high quality fish tank stand that will last you for years to come.

How to buy the best fish tank stand

So what do you need to look out for when buying a fish tank stand? Depending on the size of the tank, the material you choose for your fish tank stand is important.

Most stands are made from MDF, plywood or metal. Most wooden stands are ideal for pretty much any size tank, but it’s important to check the durability of the material if you have a saltwater fish tank. Some woods may not be suitable, as the humidity in the tank can erode wood over time.

You should also think about the size and height of the fish tank stand depending on where you want to put it. Wider and shorter stands are great for living rooms as the fish will be at eye level when you are sitting down, while taller, narrower stands are great for bedrooms or kitchens where you may be short on space.

If you don’t like clutter, we recommend choosing a fish tank stand with plenty of cupboard space beneath for discreet storage options. 

If you’ve never cleaned a fish tank before, it can seem a daunting task. But fear not, we’re here to break it down into a simple step-by-step plan, with guidance on how to clean the whole thing, from the gravel to the glass.

Like the models in our round up of best fish tanks, your fish tank is an investment so it pays to take care of it. And even more importantly, keeping your tank in tip top condition plays an important role in keeping your fish happy and healthy. Dirty surroundings can stress your fish out and lead to illness, so let's tackle exactly how to clean a fish tank from top to bottom (and even in between the gravel and your best fish tank decorations).

To find out more on why you need to clean your fish tank, and the best way to go about it, we spoke with vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan.

Why do fish tanks need cleaning?

“Keeping a fish tank clean is essential for the health and well-being of your fish. It will also keep your tank looking good, making it an attractive feature in your home,” explains Dr MacMillan.

What do you use to clean a fish tank?

Before you head to your own cleaning cupboard, stop! You’ll need to stock up on some fish safe cleaners which won’t harm your pets. You’ll also likely need some specific equipment and cleaners, as the different elements of your tank will need to be cleaned differently.

Here's a complete list of items you'll need to properly clean your fish tank:

• Algae cleaner/scraper (like this one on Amazon)
• Gravel vacuum (like this one on Amazon)
• Bucket (a collapsible bucket like this one is ideal for storing)
• Aquarium-safe glass cleaner (this one from API features in our guide to the best fish tank cleaners)
• Old bath towels
• Paper towels
• Filter brush (like this one on Amazon)
• Water conditioning solution (like this one on Amazon)

How to clean a fish tank: Preparation

Once you’ve got your gear ready, it’s time to prep your tank ready for cleaning. Dr MacMillan shared with us how to do this:

• Wash your hands and arms: Before cleaning your tank, make sure that you have washed your hands and arms. This ensures that you don’t accidentally contaminate the water with anything that might be on your skin.
• Turn it off: Turn off any electrical items, including the light and filter.
• Remove decor: Remove any artificial plants or easily moveable decorative features. These can then be cleaned elsewhere using aquarium-safe cleaning solutions.

How to clean a fish tank: Step-by-step

It's easiest if you clean a fish tank in a particular order. Believe it or not, you can leave your fish in the tank while you clean it – removing them from the tank can stress them out, and you could accidentally injure them. You don't need to fully drain the tank of water, so the fish can remain in situ. Completely replacing the water in the tank can actually shock your fish.

Cleaning your fish tank in a particular order will make the process easier and more efficient and will also decrease the likelihood of you disturbing your fish or accidentally upending the balance of bacteria in the tank's water. There is beneficial bacteria inside fish tanks that should remain there, and doing things like cleaning a filter at the same time you clean your entire tank can trigger an ammonia spike, which can be fatal for fish.

Step 1: How to clean fish tank glass

The first step is cleaning the glass. For this, you’ll need an algae scraper or pad. “You should scrub the inside walls of your tank with a cleaning sponge or algae scraper made specifically for this purpose. This will lift any algae without scratching the glass,” advises Dr MacMillan.

Step 2: How to clean fish tank decorations

During the prep stage you will have already removed all of the decorations, including fake plants, rock decor and any other such features. Whatever you do, don’t clean these with soap as it is almost impossible to remove entirely and can have harmful side effects for fish.

Simply soak the decorations in warm water and use the sponge or algae scraper to scrape away the algae. For stubborn algae you can use a 10% bleach and water solution, but these must be thoroughly rinsed in water and left to air dry afterwards. This should eliminate as much of the bleach as possible, though if it still smells like bleach avoid putting it back in the tank.

Step 3: How to clean fish tank gravel

While your decorations are air drying, it’s time to clean the fish tank gravel. “Most fish tanks can be cleaned using an aquarium gravel vacuum to siphon the dirty water from the tank into a bucket or a drain,” says Dr MacMillan.

The siphon moves the gravel around and vacuums up any debris kicked up, without vacuuming up the gravel.

In order to do this: “direct the nozzle of the vacuum into all areas of the tank to suction up all the loose debris and dirt. When removing water, ensure that you take no more than 50% out of the tank. This helps the tank to maintain its stable water parameters and bacteria levels. Your fish will stay in the tank while you are cleaning it, so this is another reason why it is important not to take too much water out,” she explains.

Step 4: How to clean the water in your fish tank

Once you have removed around 50% of the water, it’s time to top the tank back up. But don’t just chuck a bucket load of tap water straight in.

“When replacing the water, make sure you have treated it with a water conditioning solution. Chlorine levels in tap water can be too high for fish, so this makes things safer for them,” explains Dr MacMillan. “You should also ensure the clean water is at the correct temperature before gently pouring it in so that you don’t shock or injure your fish. You may also want to consider adding some anti-algae solution to your water to discourage algae growth,” she adds.

Step 5: How to clean the water filter in your fish tank

“Don’t forget that your filter will also need regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure that it continues performing well. This should also be part of your tank cleaning regime,” advises Dr MacMillan.

You'll want to wait to clean the filter until two weeks after you cleaned all of the other fish tank elements. Not waiting can further disturb the tank's bacteria, much of which is beneficial for your fish.

If you have filter media that contains carbon, ammonia absorbers, or ion-exchange resins, it should be replaced if it's more than three weeks old. If you have a filter that is mechanical and does not absorb toxins like a filter fiber, sponges, or a ceramic filter, you can gently rinse it and place it back in the filter. Clean the filter tubing and other parts of the filter that are in the tank's water with a filter brush.

Step 6: How to clean the outside glass

Even though it’s the exterior, you should only use aquarium safe cleaners to clean the outside glass, as ammonia is very toxic to fish. You can also use vinegar. When cleaning the glass and other fixtures, make sure to clean the hood, light, and top of the tank as well. Then go over everything you've cleaned with a damp cloth or wet paper towel.

There you have it – a step by step guide to cleaning your fish tank. All that’s left to do now is step back and admire your hard work (and, of course, your fish).

Wondering why your fish tank is cloudy? Or looking for tips for taking care of fish? We’ve got it all!

The best fish food is likely at the top of your weekly shopping list if you share your home with several finned friends, but with more options than ever before, how do you know which food is the right one to be adding into your aquarium each day?

While investing in the best fish tank is one of the most important decisions you'll make, getting your finned friends diet right also needs to be a top priority to ensure they stay happy and healthy. 

The first thing you need to know is whether the fish you have are omnivores, carnivores or herbivores so that you can feed them correctly. Once you've ascertained that, you can decide between dry food, freeze-dried, frozen, fresh or live. 

For a lot of people, dry fish food is the most convenient, both from a storage and feeding point of view. Dry options include flakes, pellets, and sticks, and the advantage of these is that they tend to last for a long time, so you don't need to worry about them going off. Look for options that are high in fiber to avoid your fishy friends becoming constipated.

Fish that are carnivores will likely enjoy freeze-dried or frozen worms and shrimp, and if your favorite swimmers are herbivores, you can add variety alongside their dry food by popping lettuce, spinach and cucumber into their tank. 

The most important thing to remember is that one food won't be suitable for all fish, so if you have a variety of fish in your tank, you'll want to use a combination of food to make sure all of your finned friends are getting what they need. 

Below you'll find our picks of the best fish food. When you've finished browsing the selection on offer here, take a look at our guide to the best fish tank stands for storage and display solutions.

Utterly ubiquitous on the fish food shelves, Tetra’s bright packaging and outstanding fish photography certainly stand out. These tropical flakes are suitable for a mixed community tank, floating on the surface before gradually sinking so both top and middle feeders can have a chance to feed. Bottom feeders, however, may be out of luck as the flakes often disintegrate before they’ve had a chance to eat their fill.

This quick melting away into the water is Tetra’s trump card - the flakes won’t clog up your filter or cloud your water as long as you don’t over-feed. Presented as a mixture of seven different flakes, there’s something for almost all fish here, with fish and shrimp meal, rice, soybeans, potatoes, and oats foremost among its ingredients. There’s a lot of protein on offer here (47%), balanced with fats and carbs. Tetra also includes probiotics and minerals in its fish food to support a healthy immune system among your fish.

Feeding a complete fish food such as TetraMin can help to enhance the colors and behavior of your fish, as healthy males are more likely to enter breeding coloration when their nutritional needs are met. TetraMin’s high-protein formulation is perfect for carnivorous species, but consider supplementing it with vegetables such as peas or broccoli if you have herbivorous species. Frozen or freeze-dried foods such as shrimp can also be used as a supplement if you feel the flakes are not providing enough protein.

Frequently available for significantly less than the equivalent Tetra package, API offers a similarly high-protein mix of nutrients which are suitable for a range of common community species, with anecdotal evidence suggesting bettas particularly like them.

The recipe is a high-protein one, with dried seaweed and banana flour included further down the list. There’s a decent mixture of vitamins and minerals included too, along with a claim that the flakes produce less ammonia when digested and therefore contribute toward a cleaner tank. Carotenoids help to enhance fish color, while the mix of proteins helps them to grow.

There are a few things to watch out for, however: The presence of copper sulphate in the flakes can be bad news for certain aquarium inhabitants, such as snails, so avoid if you’ve got copper-sensitive creatures in your care. Then there are scattered reports of bad smells, and of the flakes clumping together. We’re obviously unable to open and test every canister out there, so we hope this is an isolated problem. 

Bottom feeders stand more of a chance of getting a decent meal if you use these flakes, as they don’t dissolve in the water quite so quickly as the Tetra equivalent. API’s fish food seems popular with tank residents at all levels, however, and when supplemented with treats tailored to the species you keep, will make a good everyday basic food for tropical fish.

Goldfish flakes differ in their nutritional makeup from tropical ones, as the needs of fish adapted to cooler waters are different from their warmer water brethren. TetraFin is aimed at goldfish but is suitable for many species of room-temperature fish from across Asia. You can also use it to feed outdoor fish, particularly in the run-up to their winter dormancy, if pelleted food proves too large for them.

With slightly less protein and more fat than the tropical TetraMin, TetraFin contains a rich mix of vitamins and minerals and is easy for your fish to digest, leading to less clouding of the water - although goldfish are naturally messy fish, and regular water changes will still be required. Beta-carotene helps enhance the color of your fish, while the presence of omega-3 fatty acids helps keep them alert and energetic.

TertaFin flakes don’t dissolve as easily as others, tending to float for a while before slowly descending and lingering on the bottom, which makes them ideal for all members of the community, including bottom feeders. The Tetra range includes Sinking Goldfish Granules that can be fed as a supplement, giving them variety in their diet and, through the addition of algae in the food, further helping to bring out their naturally beautiful colors.

Marine fishkeeping is a bizarre mix of enjoyment, stress, and chemistry, but when you get it right there’s nothing quite so satisfying as watching your simulated marine biome in action. A good fish food will help promote this satisfaction, as you watch your fish (and perhaps crustaceans or echinoderms too) grow, change, and become extra colorful. 

Ocean Nutrition’s Formula Two is an excellent food for omnivorous and herbivorous marine fish (despite the fact it’s made from other fish, they don’t mind) and is available as flakes or pellets. You can use it in a herbivorous freshwater tank too, which is useful if you keep both types. While Ocean’s Formula One flakes are a bit more of an all-rounder, these Formula Two pellets give your fish an increased environmental richness as they tussle and bite at the larger food much as they would in the wild. The pellets do, however, sink quite fast, allowing fish to chase them for a bit but ending up on the bottom rather quickly where they are picked over by shrimp and other bottom feeders.

The pellets are presented in oxygen-free packaging, and feel moist and fresh. Package size may be a bit on the big side, but the pellets keep well and, when mixed with other supplemental foods, should last a long time.

Aimed at tetras, catfish, cichlids, and livebearers, but suitable for just about any species of tropical fish, these micro wafers are broad but light, designed to sink slowly through the water. You’ll also want to investigate wafers if you’re keeping plecos and other algae-eating bottom feeders. While Tetra tends to dominate fish foods such as flakes and pellets, Hikari was the originator of the wafer-style food, and remains on of its most reliable manufacturers.

Once they’ve settled, the wafers linger for a while before breaking up, so it’s important not to feed too many as they may cloud your water. Enriched with algae and vitamin C, you should see a decrease in stress and an improvement in fish color, as long as the other environmental variables are under control. 

With a larger percentage of vegetable matter than other types of food, these wafers are recommended for herbivorous fish, but can be fed to a wider community as there’s still plenty of protein on offer. The large bag they come in looks like a bargain, but when they hang around for a while, and especially if moisture is allowed in, then an unpleasant smell may begin to seep out. It’s worth keeping them in an extra layer of plastic just for that reason.

How to choose the best fish food

Fish benefit from, and respond to, their environment being tailored to them, and getting the food right is as important as hitting the lighting, pH, and temperature targets. Research any new species of fish you’re thinking of adding to your community tank to see what its nutritional needs are before you buy it - there’s nothing worse than a new arrival moping around the tank looking hungry while you desperately try to find something that will pique its appetite. At the same time, be sure not to over-feed your fish. Not only can this impact their bodily health, it can cause a rise in bacteria levels in your tank. Wondering “why is my fish tank cloudy?” Over-feeding could a factor.

Some fish like to chase their food, in which case slower-sinking pellets or wafers could be the answer. Others respond to flake food, darting to catch it as it is washed around the tank in the flow from filtration. Bottom feeders will nibble on anything that comes within range, some launching themselves up in the water in a spectacular display if something catches their eye.

Once you’ve checked the nutritional content and type of fish food you’re going to supply, consider the extras that are included - extra fish oils and vitamins, especially foods rich in algae, will enhance the natural colors of your fish. Aquarium lighting has a large role to play here too, so don’t expect miracles from a change of food. Despite the jokes made about their memory, many fish are culinary conservatives, and will ignore or spit out new food that isn’t what they’re used to. The exception to this are supplements such as live worms, freeze-dried shrimp, or fresh vegetables, which many fish devour with apparent delight. Getting to know your fish is the key to delivering optimum nutrition, but a good general-purpose flake food is a good place to start.

There’s a good chance that you may have released a pet goldfish into a pond or lake, for whatever reason.

Seems a pretty harmless action, right? Wrong. As this case study shows, releasing goldfish into a natural body of water can have serious consequences for the balance of the local ecosystem.

A somewhat humorous illustration of what can happen has been shown in this tweet from the official Twitter account for the city of Burnsville, Minnesota, which shows released pet goldfish having grown to truly gigantic proportions.

Typically, goldfish in a tank grow to a length of about 2 inches (5.1cm). However, as you can see from the picture, they can greatly exceed that when left to their own devices in the wild.

As the tweet says, goldfish can disturb the sediment and uproot plants. Moreover, the rate at which they breed and consume food means that they quickly become the dominant species in the ecosystem, with potentially dire repercussions for the other species present there.

There have been numerous examples of this happening worldwide, with the BBC reporting that over 50,000 goldfish had been removed from just one creek in nearby Carver Creek.

So the message to come out of this is pretty simple: even if you have just the one goldfish, do not under any circumstances release it in a nearby lake or pond. 

There are plenty of great fish tanks to choose from, as you can see in our guide to the best fish tank.

Alternatively, if you decide that goldfish aren’t for you, why not choose a different type? For more information, read our guide on how to choose the right pet fish.

Whatever you do, please aware of what your decisions have on the local wildlife. There are many more solutions to bear in mind before resorting to dumping your goldfish in an environment that they’re not suited to.

The best circulation pumps are great at keeping your fish happy and healthy. They help keep water in constant motion, creating a more natural environment for your fish to swim in and enjoy, and you can watch any plants or decor sway with the current created. The continual movement of water also ensures that fresh oxygen is being generated, helping to make sure that your fish will flourish. Take a look at our top picks to help you select the best option for you.

How to choose the best circulation pump

A circulation pump makes sure that the water in a tank stays clean and oxygenated, keeping your fish healthy. A key component of a circulation pump is its GPH (gallons per hour), which in general, refers to the flow rate of filters. The larger the GPH the bigger the tank it will work with. As a rough guide, a pump with a flow of 500 GPH is the ideal companion for a freshwater 40-gallon freshwater tank,  slightly less for a saltwater tank. Also consider size, how easy it is to clean, and how it fixes to a tank. 

Our top pick is the VIVOSUN 800GPH Submersible Pump, a quiet, easy-to-use pump that has a max flow of 800GPH, great for most tanks below 100 gallons. If you own a large or very large tank, then the SICCE Voyager Stream Pump range is what you need. Its top-of-the-range model shifts an impressive 4000 gallons an hour.

For smaller tanks try the AQUANEAT Aquarium Circulation Pump. This comes as a set of two, so you can create some custom current to keep your fish happy. There is also the compact Fluval Sea CP2 Circulation Pump that is unobtrusive but still powerful. If you are looking for a more efficient circulation pump then try out the Aqueon Circulation Pump, suitable for small and large tanks.

With the best fish tank decorations and accessories, you can create both a stimulating environment for your pet swimmers and a wonderful talking point for your home. To that end, it’s worthwhile taking a step back and considering what would work well in the tank. You’re certainly not short on options.

There are lots of accessories in every shape, size and color imaginable as well as some important, sensible items. You should invest in a thermometer, for example, but you should also ensure your tank includes stones and rocks, which offer a lovely natural look and mimic a fish’s natural environment.

Caves, ships, and ruins are a fun addition that will provide your fish with plenty of places to explore. Driftwood is a popular choice too. Even if you own one of the best small fish tanks, you need to add something and one or two decorations are better than none. “A bare tank will not only affect the mental well-being of your fish but will also be pretty boring for you to look at,” says our expert vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan.

Join us then as we take a look at the best fish tank decorations and accessories. We’ll examine options that would work well in the larger best tropical fish tanks as well as those suitable for smaller environments. And if you want your fishes to truly stand out, consider the best fish tank stand you can afford as well, to make your aquarium a true, stylish visual centrepiece in your home. Let’s catch them all.

PetsRadar's pick of the best fish tank decorations 2026

How we chose the best fish tank decorations and accessories

First of all, when examining a tank accessory, we wanted to ensure that it was going to be safe – there could be no sharp edges or any potentially toxic materials. We also looked for accessories that would be practical: battery-operated items, where appropriate, that could be installed with the minimum of fuss. Given how dirty tanks can get, we sought easily cleaned decorations that wouldn’t topple too.

Why are fish decorations important?

Fish like stimulation so, just as you’re unlikely to want to live your own life in an empty room, our finned friends have a preference for intriguing habitats. As such, decorationss help fish boredom, with fish particularly enjoying items they can swim through.

“Accessories and decorations add interest and allow certain types of fish to hide meaning they can exhibit natural behaviours,” says Dr MacMillan. “Live plants will also add oxygen to your tank water as well as give certain species something to nibble on.”

While it’s great to have decorations in your tank, make sure you include them in your tank cleaning regimen. Dirt and bacteria can collect on them and can lead the to the water taking on a translucent hue. If you’ve ever wondered “why is my fish tank cloudy?”, this could be the reason.

What kinds of decorations work best?

Different sized plants, stones, wood and sand are great additions to any tank and, at the very least, you should opt for those. But, as Dr MacMillan says, there is an array of different accessories available.

“Your choice may depend on how you want your tank to look,” she says. “A natural tank will have items like bogwood, rocks, and live plants. But some owners prefer using figurines and models to create a theme, for example, a sunken pirate ship with treasure chests or gold coins.”

What colours tend to work best?

Much depends on the type of fish you have. Brightly colored fish are highlighted to perfection with accessories that are white or pale, while less-vibrant fish will look great with decorations that pack a real color-pop.

How many decorations should I have?

It’s tempting to want to buy loads of decorations and accessories but you have to remember that fish need room to swim! So don’t go overboard. Start with one or two carefully chosen accessories first and see how much space is left before investing in more.

“Whatever accessories you choose, try not to overcrowd your tank. Your fish will need plenty of circulating space to swim in, especially if they are large or a shoaling type,” Dr MacMillan affirms.

While it may sound tricky, learning how to mount an aquarium camera is actually far easier than you think – which is good news as these nifty little devices will let you beautifully capture your pretty fish swimming happily about in the best fish tank that you lovingly purchased for them. 

When it comes to the best pet cameras, the market is often heavily dominated by devices that will keep an eye on our feline friends and canine companions with far less thought given to creatures who are much smaller in size. 

But, no matter whether we're the proud pet parent of a cat, dog, horse, bird, rabbit or goldfish, we all like to be able to take photos of our pets. Thankfully, while it may not seem immediately obvious how you can go about doing this in a fish tank, you'll be pleased to discover you have more options than you think. 

Obviously aquariums come in all shapes and sizes, so you might have to adapt some of these ideas to suit your own setup depending on whether you have one of the best tropical fish tanks or a smaller and more compact one. But whatever kind of aquatic habitat you've put together for your fish family, our tips should help.

• Best fish tank accessories: Get some aquarium envy from your fellow fish fans
• Best fish food: the best diet for tank or pond fish
• Best fish feeder: keep your fabulous fishies well fed

Fish tank camera options

Before you worry that you're going to have to spend a fortune on a flash camera to take photos of your fish family, we'll put your mind at ease - any kind kind of camera can take fish tank photos and videos to some extent, from your smartphone to a DSLR. So you might want to think about the resources you already have at your disposal before investing in something new. 

If you already have a GoPro action camera, for example, you can adapt this to snap very decent pictures of your aquarium. GoPro sells four cameras at the time of writing – from the most to the least expensive, the Hero 10 Black, the Hero 9 Black, the Hero 8 Black, and the Hero 7 Black. All will take great shots, but the more you pay the better the quality images (and video) you'll get. The GoPros are waterproof as well (down to 10 meters or 33 feet), so you have the option of putting them inside the tank as well as mounting them on the outside.

You don't want your smartphone sitting by the fish tank all day, but if you're about to upgrade and there's an old handset going spare, this might be an option. You don't need a phone with a particularly advanced camera to take fish tank shots, but as with the GoPros, usually the pricier devices will work better. Something to consider if you are taking the phone route is a macro lens: attach a lens such as the Moment Macro Lens and it can help make your close-ups that little bit sharper (just make sure you buy a lens that's compatible with the phone you're using).

Then there are the heavy-duty DSLR or bridge cameras: you'll get far more shooting options with these cameras, but you probably don't want to be mounting them permanently to your fish tank. If you want the highest-quality pictures possible, consider having a temporary set up which you can quickly install and remove again close to your fish tank rather than actually on it.

Lastly, webcams and smart home security cameras can record photos and video of your fish tank too. The image quality won't be as good as some of the other options here, but they'll come with software to let you tap into the feed from your phone whenever you like, wherever you are – you could easily set up something like the Blink Mini right next to your fish tank, for example.

Fish tank mount options

Your mounting options depend on the camera you're using. Dedicated fish tank camera mounts don't really exist, so that leaves you free to experiment: if you're a keen DIYer then you might want to consider getting your own mount and fixing constructed on the outside of your tank.

One advantage of going with a GoPro is that there are plenty of mounts and stands available, whether you want to prop the camera up outside the aquarium or actually attach it to the glass – a surfboard mount or suction cup could work very well, for example.

Suction cups can work well for phones too: any mount that can fix your phone to your car windshield can also fix it to the side of your fish tank, though you may need to get creative with the positioning to make sure the phone ends up pointing in the right direction. Shooting through glass isn't easy, as we'll get into in the section below.

Tripods are of course an option for more heavy duty digital cameras and smartphones. In this case you'd be setting up your device right next to the aquarium, most probably with the lens(es) up against the glass. The good news is there are a whole host of mini tripod options available: inexpensive, flexible tripods such as this KobraTech one can be put in many different positions.

If you take the webcam or security cam option, then the camera might already come with a bunch of mounting or bracketing options – and if not, they're usually available as accessories. Take the affordable Neos SmartCam, for example, which comes with a stand and adhesive tape so you can mount it just about anywhere.

Fish tank photo tips

You've got water, glass and all the resulting lighting complications to deal with when you're taking fish tank photos, and these all need to be taken into account. Shooting with your camera perpendicular to the glass, for example, can help reduce the chances of distortion from the fish tank itself.

On cameras where you have the option – so high-end digital cameras and some smartphones that include pro settings – you want to aim for a fast shutter speed and a shallow depth of field (a lower f-stop, if you have the setting). This helps avoid blurring from quick fish movements, while also keeping your pets in focus.

Using a flash generally isn't recommended, as you've then got even more reflections to deal with, but don't be afraid to experiment with this or any other setting. The flash can actually help freeze a moment in time, but usually only if you're using a high-end digital camera with a very fast shutter speed, rather than a phone or action cam.

You won't get any such options if you've set up a webcam or a security cam, but those devices do offer you the option of a constant feed, so it's a question of what you want to prioritize. With these cameras, getting good photos and videos is more about finding the right angle and distance before capturing anything.

Remember that there's no rush to get everything perfect first time – your fish aren't going anywhere – so try several different setups to see what works best. That also means experimenting with natural light – try taking photos using your camera at different times of the day, and from different sides of the aquarium if you can – you'll soon be able to get a feel for what works and what doesn't in terms of positioning and lighting.

Water quality is the most critical aspect of keeping fish, but unless you have a dedicated sensor, such as the Seneye Home USB Fish Tank Sensor, it’s hard to be sure of the status of your aquatic environment.

Even if you have one the best fish tanks or best tropical fish tanks sat on the best fish tank stand successful fishkeeping involves regularly testing the water’s nitrogen and pH levels, having an effective, but minimally intrusive, fish tank cleaning regime and keeping the level of algae in check.

Seneye’s system measures the composition of the water, checking its temperature, levels of light, alkalinity and oxygen. The digital sensor actively monitors changes to the water in the fish tank, while the USB connection ensures you’ll get a notification should the pH levels or overall healthiness of the water start to change. 

This helps provide reassurance that the fish are suitably housed, putting the owner’s mind at rest.

• Best small fish tank: The top aquariums of five gallons and under
• Best fish tank cleaners: Keep your aquarium in top shape
• Best fish tank accessories: Get some aquarium envy from your fellow fish fans
• Best fish feeder 2020: Keep your fabulous fishies well fed

Seneye Home USB Fish Tank Sensor: Features

The Seneye Home USB Fish Tank Sensor is a big deal in the fishkeeping world because of its ability to warn in advance of any dangerous changes to the water. This is a step-change from the more usual scenario in which the fish enthusiast regularly uses a water testing kit to check on levels of nitrogen and algae, but may not spot chemical changes in time to save treasured fish. 

Seneye’s manufacturers claim the sensor is designed to prevent a scenario in which you lose fish but have no idea why (meaning you can’t necessarily fix the issue and prevent further loss of life).

Seneye’s sensor chip is submerged in the water and changes color to a bright red if there’s a problem, for example, a potentially toxic free ammonia spike, pH changes or if the temperature is too warm or too cold for the type of fish you have. 

Changes to the light intensity in the tank are also measured since this can indicate pH level fluctuations. Warning lights on the Seneye device alert owners to any problems. Text messages and email alerts are also provided if you have an active sensor.

Parameters depend on the tank size and type and whether the fish tank is designated as marine, cold water or tropical during the set-up process. Charts accessible on the Seneye website, as well as ones specific to your own tank’s set-up, show fluctuations in its water quality. Using these, it predicts future changes and can potentially provide an early warning system for critical spikes.

However, it can’t do this until the Seneye is set up and its sensors stabilized – accurate readings are promised from five days after installation. When connected to a PC or laptop via USB (or Wi-Fi if you purchase the optional adapter), the device provides constant active monitoring and delivers continuous updates.

Hourly readings are logged and can be manually accessed if you don’t have a fixed computer connection to Seneye. Mac owners need to use the Seneye Web Server, another paid-for extra. 

Seneye Home USB Fish Tank Sensor: User reviews

With a price tag of £99 for the Home kit, plus the need to buy a new color-reacting sensor each month, the Seneye USB Fish Tank Sensor has been criticized for being too expensive.

It’s a modular system with consumables and extras you may need to invest in, rather than a subscription model. Even so, it’s a valid comment, since for many people the visual and smartphone/email alerts that come only with having a current sensor will be the main reason for purchase.

The lack of Mac compatibility is another possible deterrent, given the additional £150 cost of the AWS server, but we’ve only seen the occasional comment about the more puzzling result of the PC-only approach: you need to connect Seneye to an always-on laptop, limiting its use, as well as using lots of electricity.

While some avid fish keepers say the Seneye Home USB Fish Tank Sensor provides peace of mind and confidence their prized fish will remain healthy, other users have queried the reliability of its readings. One user who regularly tests the pH and ammonia levels of his tanks suggests the Seneye’s results “should be taken as guidance, but not as gospel”.

Should you buy the Seneye Home USB Fish Tank Sensor?

If you like the idea of automatically monitoring temperature, light, free ammonia, algae and pH levels and don’t mind having a computer constantly connected to the task, the Seneye system makes sense. However, user reviews suggest that if Seneye alerts you to an issue, it’s worthwhile carrying out your own tests before panicking.

If you’re a keen fishkeeper happy to monitor the environment yourself, the Seneye system may simply replicate information you already track. But if things start to go wrong in the tank, it might just save you from a heartbreaking loss of prized fish.

Dirty aquatic environments can kill so it’s important to invest in one of the best fish tank cleaners to keep your fish healthy. With the correct equipment, you can keep tanks looking sparkling, ridding them of green swirls of algae, fish poop and general dirt. You’ll also be able to see your fish with greater clarity, allowing you to enjoy a colorful aquatic display and see your favourite fish tank accessories.

“Fish tanks and aquariums must be kept clean otherwise it can negatively affect the health and welfare of your pets,” affirms expert vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan. But, knowing that clean tanks are the best fish tanks, which products should you choose? The answer to that depends on the type of tank you own – there are, for instance, products that are best suited for glass and others more ideal for acrylic.

You can buy chemicals, although they’re not recommended if you have live plants. On the other hand, there are plenty of tools that do the job in different ways. In general, there are long-handled products that let you scrub up and down the insides of the glass and there are magnetic devices that sandwich your glass and allow you to scrub them up and down in the same way.

The best fish tank cleaners we recommend in 2026

How we chose the best fish tank cleaners

We primarily looked at two main features: the effectiveness of a cleaner and how easy it was to use.

We also considered whether there was any potential for damage from overenthusiastic cleaning bearing in mind that regular maintenance should negate the need to give a tank a harsh scrub. In doing so, we kept an open mind.

Although we tend to shy away from chemical treatments, there’s no doubt they can be effective, and relatively cheap as long as you’re not using them every month.

We also wanted to see if the tools we assessed could get into fiddly corners or the bits behind the filters.

How often should I clean a fish tank?

In general, you should be cleaning a fish tank when you notice it’s looking a little grubby. The earlier you tackle the problem, the less of a challenge it will become and the healthier your fish will be. A regular regime of light cleaning beats leaving it until it requires a thorough blitz. Here’s some advice on how to clean a fish tank.

How often that will be depends on numerous factors. For example, according to expert vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan, the type of tank plays a big part.

“How often your tank needs cleaning may depend on its size and the filtration system,” she says. In general, two to four times a month will keep tanks in tip-top shape.

“Partial water changes and cleaning should take place weekly or fortnightly for many tanks,” she adds.

Why is it important to keep tanks clean?

According to Dr MacMillan, you’re literally saving your fish’s life.

“Nitrogen compounds can build to dangerous levels in a dirty fish tank,” she says. “These come from the waste your fish produces, as well as any uneaten food, leading to illness or even death. Measuring nitrate levels and regularly performing partial water changes will be key to keeping on top of this. Levels of harmful bacteria can also increase in dirty tanks, which will negatively affect your pets.”

Cleaning your tank also helps to keep the water crystal clear – if you’re asking yourself “why is my fish tank cloudy?”, an update cleaning regimen could be the answer.

Is there a natural way of keeping a tank clean?

A tank with green swirls of algae growing off every surface and flapping in the current from the filter looks unsightly. It also becomes slimy and matted as it grows ever bigger, eventually requiring the services of a scrubbing brush to remove.

There are many little creatures that like to eat algae, including, Dr MacMillan says, Amano shrimps, bristlenose plecos and Malaysian trumpet snails. Many are attractive and add interest to your tank as they constantly nibble away at every spot of algae that forms. But they’re not necessarily the ultimate time-saving answer you think they might be.

“Don’t forget that these species will be excreting waste, too, so your tank will still need regular cleaning and water changes,” Dr MacMillan explains.

Why is algae dangerous for fish?

Algae are primitive plant-like organisms which settle on hard surfaces and breed by absorbing the light, oxygen and nutrients in the tank. If your aquarium has an abundance of these resources, the algae will proliferate and start to take over, starving your fish of what they need to survive. Much depends on how the algae is building up, though.

“Algae that builds up on the inside of the glass is less likely to be harmful, but it looks unsightly and prevents you from viewing your fish,” Dr MacMillan says.

If a pet fish is on your radar, we've got all the details you could possibly need about your future aquatic friend. Fish can make beautiful additions to your home or outdoor space, adding color and beautiful water features to any place they're put. And while fish don't need to be walked or groomed, they're not complete maintenance, drop-em-anywhere kind of pets - there are still some things you should do in order to make sure everything goes swimmingly.

That's why we've got all the details here on how to set up the perfect aquarium or aquatic space for your future pet fish, different breeds of fish and what they need, fish food, and all the seaweed in between - you'll be ready for a pet fish in no time. Once you've decided, take a look at our guide to buying the best fish tank so you can find the perfect home for them.

• Best fish tank stand: Stylish and sturdy stands to show off your fish collection
• Best Fish Food 2020: the best diet for tank or pond fish
• Best fish feeder 2020: keep your fabulous fishies well fed
• Best tropical fish tanks 2020: Keep fishes from all around the world

Goldfish

Golden and glorious, when treated well the humble goldfish is the perfect pet. Not only does it look wonderful, it’s inexpensive to keep. However, these fish deserve so much more than just a bowl. Unfortunately the typical goldfish bowl is actually the worst environment these fish could have. Goldfish are herbivores and produce a lot of waste, so they need a tank that’s well filtered and well aerated to ensure that they get enough oxygen and clean water. Bear in mind that these fish can also reach surprising sizes, so make sure you allow for growth when choosing your aquarium setup.

Neon tetra

With a flash of iridescent blue and a shock of red, these tiny and colorful tropical fish can liven up any freshwater tropical aquarium. They’re native to South America, and are peaceful fish but ought not to be kept with larger, aggressive fish thanks to their small size. In the wild, neon tetras live in murky water, their colouring helps them keep together as a school They do best in schools of 10-15 individuals.

Koi Carp

Koi carp – also known as nishikigoi carp – are variants of the common carp species. They originated in China, but it was the Japanese who bred the colour variants that have resulted in the beautiful markings on today’s koi fish! There are now many different variants to choose from, each with its own specific markings and characteristics.

Filling outdoor ponds with flashes of glorious orange colour, koi grow very fast and to substantial sizes. They require a large outdoor pond with enough depth for them to overwinter. Although they’re hardy fish, they also need plenty of pond maintenance as poor water quality is a common factor in koi health.

Angelfish

With their flattened disc-like bodies and long, elegant fins, these freshwater tropical fish are some of the most beautiful in any aquarium. These graceful fish prefer calmer waters to glide through, so ensure that your filtration system doesn’t produce a strong current, and when designing your tank be sure to avoid including any sharp objects. They also love to be in groups, so it’s best – as always – to ensure you have enough tank space for them to grow into as adults. Due to their shape, a tall, deep aquarium is better suited to keeping angelfish.

Guppy

Affectionately known as ‘rainbow fish’, this species is a freshwater tropical fish. Thanks to their gorgeous colours and relative hardiness, not only do they make a tropical aquarium look exceptionally beautiful, they’re also easy to care for.

Guppies thrive in water around 17-28 degrees Celsius (62-82 degrees Fahrenheit). Like many other fish they love to forage, so gravel and plants in your aquarium will keep guppies happy. They live well in groups if the tank size is adequate, but males can harass females so opt for a 2:1 ratio to reduce stress.

Golden orfe

If you have a large outdoor pond with excellent oxygenation then these fish will fit in very well. As highly sociable creatures they like to live in schools of around six, but they need plenty of space. This fish loves to stay close to the surface, which makes for a brilliant pond but also means they need protection from hungry cats and passing herons.

Clownfish

Thanks to Disney’s Finding Nemo, the clownfish is one of the most popular reef fish species for tropical aquariums. As a saltwater species, setting up a tank to care for these fish is slightly trickier than for freshwater but very rewarding to watch them flourish.

Clownfish aren’t known for swimming long distances and so a smaller tank is just fine – especially if you include an anemone for them to make home. Once the aquarium is set up and balanced they are quite a hardy species, and these cute fish can also be very engaging – they’re known to follow you around the tank or even ask for food at feeding time!

Are you looking for the best fish feeder 2020 has to offer? Whether you have the best fish tank or a humble pond, a fish feeder will help you maintain the health and nutrition of your fish with ease. But buying the right fish feeder can be confusing, which is why we’ve picked out some of the best products on the market for you. 

Having fish as pets is much more demanding than you may think, as they require very precise amounts of food and need to be fed several times a day. 

If you work full time, or even if you go on holiday, it can be tricky to ensure your fish still get the right amount of food throughout the day, without risk of under/over feeding them or messing with their routine. 

Automatic fish feeders make your life so much easier, and you can have peace of mind that your fish are happy and healthy without the need for constant attention. There are so many benefits of installing a fish feeder in your tank or pond. 

They are super flexible and allow you to control portion sizes and how many times a day your fish are fed with an automatic timer which will dispense food when you tell it to. 

Overall, a fish feeder can save you time, money and help keep your tank’s ecosystem clean and running smoothly, as with precise portions you’ll have less food left in the tank after feeding time

Check out the list below for some of the best fish feeders to buy in 2020 and also be sure to take a look at our guide to the best fish food.

• Best fish tank stand: Stylish and sturdy stands to show off your fish collection
• Best tropical fish tanks: Keep fishes from all around the world
• Best fish tank cleaners: Keep your aquarium in top shape
• Best small fish tank: The top aquariums of five gallons and under

PetsRadar’s pick of the best fish feeders

The Kinoee Automatic Fish Feeder is a reliable gadget for your home aquarium, especially if you lead a busy lifestyle. The fish feeder can hold up to 21 days’ worth of food, and allows you to programme it to feed your fish up to four times per day. 

The amount you choose to dispense at any one time depends on your fish and this could take a few tries to get right. However, once it is set to your ideal preferences, you don’t need to worry about manually feeding your fish at all if you don’t want to. 

This makes going on holiday much easier without having to worry about your fish getting the right amount of food, and you can also choose to dispense double or triple doses, depending on how many fish you have in your tank. 

This is one of the best fish feeders for energy efficiency as it runs at a micro-level power consumption. 2 AA batteries should keep this feeder running for a whole year! The battery-operated design also makes it super easy and quick to set up, but bear in mind the batteries are sold separately. 

It runs quietly and the food is stored in a moisture resistant compartment so that food stays dry. You can load this fish feeder with pretty much any type of fish food including flakes, pellets or crumbles. Overall you can keep your pets happy with this super-efficient automatic fish feeder.

If you need a quick fix fish feeder for when you’re away on holiday and don’t want to invest in a battery-powered automatic feeder, then this dissolvable pyramid could work for you. 

The pyramid can be placed inside your tank and it will slowly dissolve and dispense food. The pyramid is said to last 14 days based on a 37 litre tank with around 5-10 fish, but this really depends on your fish. 

The only downside is if you have greedy fish, there is a chance they will eat all the food in less than 2 weeks, as there is no way to control the amount being dispensed. 

The great thing about this fish feeder is it’s super affordable and a great way to keep your fish happy and healthy while away. Made of all-natural ingredients, the pyramid feeder is suitable for most types of fish including cold water fish, angelfish, goldfish and many more. 

While you can’t guarantee your fish will like the food dispensed, as it’s so cheap you can always give it a trial run a couple of days before you go, so you can be sure it’s working properly and your fish are enjoying it. It’s small and convenient to place in all types of tank, and it doesn’t require any set up or power supply! 

Pond owners can make feeding time easy with this solar powered pond fish feeder. It has a 6-litre reservoir for food and a battery life of up to three months, making it ideal for those who want to keep a pond low maintenance. 

Completely programmable, you can set this fish feeder to different speeds and to feed up to six times per day depending on the amount of fish you have and their dietary needs. 

The design is sturdy and it has legs which keep it safe from tampering from other wildlife or strong winds, and with a clear LCD screen it's easy to programme and change the settings whenever necessary. 

This fish feeder dispenses food at a 120-degree angle to ensure food reaches the outer edges of the pond, so you can have peace of mind that everyone will get fed well. It is a little pricey, but a good investment if you don’t have the time to be manually feeding your fish several times a day. 

This pond feeder will last you a long time and holds a lot of food for even lower-maintenance feeding. 

If you want to give you fish variety in their meals then this is the best fish feeder for you. With 14 different compartments you can fill each one with a different type of food if you wish, and provide your fish with a variety of meals for up to two weeks. This is ideal if you’re going on holiday or you simply have a busy schedule. 

You can feed fish up to four times a day and the fish feeder will dispense the food at different intervals throughout the day to ensure fish are kept happy without the risk of overfeeding. 

The feeder runs on a quartz timer, which is a little different to programming a digital feeder, but once set up it’s very accurate and reliable. The battery life is fantastic with one AA battery keeping this fish feeder running smoothly for around a year. 

While the design is slightly bulkier than some other fish feeders on the market, buyers love it for the reliability and variability it offers in feeding your fish. 

This design also comes with the option to attach the feeder to an air pump (not included), which can blow air through the feeder to prevent food from getting clogged or going stale. This feeder is suitable for aquariums up to 150 litres.

Keep your aquarium running smoothly with this USB rechargeable fish feeder that has a battery life of up to 6 months! 

Depending on the amount of times you set it to feed each day, the power lasts an incredibly long time, which is perfect if you’re away from home a lot for work, or going on a trip. 

The fish feeder is compatible with all types of fish food however users have found that sometimes flakes get clogged in the system or the dispensing is inconsistent with this type of food. 

However, this feeder is super-easy to programme and you can set it to feed your fish up to 4 times a day and manage how much food is released each time with single, double or triple doses of food depending on how many fish you have. 

It can even feed your fish and turtles in a tank of up to 600L across a weekend or while you’re on holiday. If you ever want to feed your fish manually, you can simply press the button to do so and add extra meals should they need it. 

This is the best fish feeder for big tanks and aquariums as the dispensing portions are quite large, so it may not be suitable for smaller tanks with just one or two fish as it could leave excess food in the tank. 

If you need a quick fix while you’re away then this Supa Aquarium Holiday Fish Food is a good option. The block will slowly dissolve in the tank to release food throughout the day, and provides enough food to feed 10-15 fish for up to 14 days. 

However, this really does depend on the appetite of your fish and the conditions of the tank. Ideally, this fish feeder works as it says it does in a tank no bigger than 45 litres, with an average temperature of 20-25 degrees Celsius. If the tank is any hotter then this can accelerate the dispensing of food as it dissolves quicker. 

While the downside is you cannot control how often it dispenses the food, if you have a few fish that are quite independent and not that fussy about their food then this would work well for them. 

The chalky texture means the tank will need cleaning, but with six of these fish feeders for under £10, it’s the perfect quick fix to keep your fish well fed while you’re away. 

The food particles are nutritious and safe for both tropical and cold-water fish, but do not use in marine tanks. 

How to choose the best fish feeder

When choosing the best fish feeder, it’s important to consider the nutritional needs of your fish. If you have lots of fish then you will need to opt for a feeder that dispenses multiple times a day, in which case a battery powered or rechargeable feeder is likely to be the most reliable for you. 

Dissolvable fish feeders cannot be programmed as precisely as digital fish feeders, but if you only need a temporary fix for a few days, or you don’t have a big budget, then these could be a more affordable option for you in the short term. 

However, remember to consider the ingredients in a dissolvable feeder and your needs will vary depending on whether you have tropical fish or cold-water fish. 

Pond life will need a much bigger fish feeder, as they require feeding on a different schedule to that of tank fish. Make sure you opt for a feeder that is energy-efficient and has a long power life to make it worth your while in terms of maintenance. 

If your fish like a certain type of food such as flakes, pellets or sticks, make sure that your chosen fish feeder is compatible with that type of food. Some of the best fish feeders will allow you to mix and match all types of fish food so that you can offer variety to your pets. 

And finally, check that a fish feeder is suitable for the size of your tank and that it will be easy for you to fit and program, as the point of a feeder is to make it less work for you, after all.