For many families, a pet is just another part of the household. Dogs and cats get walked, guests are greeted with a wagging tail, and little ones are comforted by familiar furry ears. But for many, pets aren’t just part of the family, they’re family members. There are millions of families in the United States who have Freshwater Fish as pets. Freshwater Fish make great pets because they provide companionship, they are easy to care for, and they’re not expensive. Don’t believe us? Read why a fish makes a great pet.
Choosing a pet can be a difficult decision. With so many wonderful animals to choose from, often it’s hard to choose just one. Sometimes families choose more than one, because one isn’t enough. But one animal that can go with almost any family or household are Freshwater Fish. Not only do Freshwater Fish not need a lot of space, but some species can even live in aquariums smaller than 10 gallons.
Freshwater Fish make great pets for people of all ages. If you have kids, a fish tank is an especially good source of entertainment, because it’s fun to watch fish swim around and eat food. If anyone in your family has stress, a fish tank can be a good stress reliever.
Many Freshwater Fish are brightly colored, and most are curious and gentle. They are low maintenance pets, but they do need consistent feedings, water changes, and aerated water.
Owning a pet can be a wonderful experience for children, teaching them responsibility, compassion, and empathy. If you’ve never had a pet fish before, you’re in for a treat.
Following is a guide to some of the most popular Freshwater Fish varieties and their associated costs and care requirements:
Goldfish
Goldfish are a popular choice for a fish, and for good reason. They’re relatively low maintenance, easy to care for, and can bring a lot of joy to their owners. If you’re considering getting a goldfish as your first fish, you’ve come to the right place!
Goldfish are members of the carp family and have been kept as pets for centuries. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, so you’re sure to find one that fits your personality. Goldfish can live up to 15 years if properly cared for, so they make a great long-term fish.
When it comes to care, goldfish are somewhat low maintenance. They require a tank of at least 20 gallons with a filter and heater. The water should be changed regularly and the tank should be cleaned every two weeks. Goldfish also need plenty of oxygen, so an air pump is recommended.
Goldfish are small fish that come in a variety of colors and patterns. They are commonly kept in aquariums, ponds, and fishbowls. They are very friendly but not so easy to care for. Because they release a higher bio load in the water, more attention is needed to keep the dissolved toxins down.
Goldfish are typically very peaceful and docile, and will generally avoid getting into fights with other fish.
Goldfish can be great fish for your aquarium because they have a long lifespan of 15 years, they are easy to look after, and they are cheap to buy! Young goldfish are especially easy to look after, and they come in so many different colors! They also get along with many different types of fish so you don’t need to worry much about them fighting.
They are also fairly inexpensive, usually costing between $4 and $6 per Goldfish.
Goldfish are omnivores, so they need a variety of food. A good diet for goldfish consists of high-quality flakes or pellets, frozen or freeze-dried foods, and live foods such as brine shrimp or bloodworms. It’s important to feed your goldfish in moderation and avoid overfeeding them.
Goldfish are an ideal pet for first time owners. They’re easy to care for and make great family pets. With the right care and diet, your goldfish will bring you years of enjoyment!
Bettas
Welcome to the wonderful world of Bettas! If you’re a new aquarium owner, you may be wondering if Betta fish are the right choice for you. Well, let us tell you why they make great additions to many aquariums!
Bettas are small tropical fish that can have a variety of colors and fin types. They are native to Southeast Asia (Thailand), and were brought to the United States in 1910. They’re sometimes also called Siamese fighting fish because Siam was what Thailand was called back then. They are very hardy, and can survive in temperatures ranging from 76°F to 81°F. They are carnivores, meaning they eat animal protein.
Bettas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find one that fits your style. They’re also relatively easy to care for, which makes them a great choice for newer aquarium owners.
While beautiful to look at, these fish need specific care to keep them healthy and thriving. They need a large tank that has a low-flow filter system and warm water. While these fish are territorial by nature, they do get bored unless they are kept with other sea life for interactions.
Bettas are very adaptable, and will thrive in a wide variety of environments. They are also relatively inexpensive to purchase, and can be found at most local pet stores.
Bettas are very easy going and calm, making them a great option for first time pet owners. They are very easy to maintain, and will only need minimal cleaning. They are very attractive, and will look great in any aquarium.
Overall, Bettas make great family pets. They’re easy to care for and can provide hours of entertainment. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find one that fits your style. So if you’re looking for a pet that’s easy to care for, consider getting a Betta. You won’t regret it!
Tetra Fish
Tetra fish are a popular choice for family aquariums, and it’s easy to see why. These small, colorful fish are not only beautiful to look at but also relatively easy to care for. They come in a variety of colors and sizes, making them an ideal choice for any aquarium.
Tetra fish are native to Africa, Central and South America and can be found in many different habitats including rivers, streams, and lakes. They are omnivores, meaning they will eat both plant and animal matter. Their wide range of food options makes them a great choice for any aquarium.
Tetra fish come in many different colors and patterns, making them an attractive addition to any tank. Some of the most popular varieties include the Neon Tetra, Cardinal Tetra, and the Black Neon Tetra. Each of these varieties has their own unique coloration and pattern, giving you a lot of different options for your aquarium.
When it comes to caring for Tetra fish, they are relatively easy to look after. Depending on the species, they need clean water with a pH between 6 and 7.5, as well as plenty of hiding places. Plants or rocks, or even little caves make great hiding places for them.
Tetra fish need to be fed a varied diet of both plant and animal matter. A good quality flake food is usually sufficient, but they will also benefit from the occasional treat of frozen or live foods. It’s important to feed them in small amounts several times a day, because overfeeding can lead to health problems.
Tetras are social fish and should be kept in groups of at least six. Keeping them in groups will help reduce stress levels and encourage them to school.
Overall, Tetra fish are a great choice for any aquarium and make wonderful family fish. They are relatively easy to care for and come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them an attractive addition to any tank. With the right care, they can live five years or more, making them a great long-term investment for any family.
Rainbowfish
Are you looking for a colorful, peaceful fish to add to your aquarium? If so, Rainbowfish may be the perfect choice for you!
Rainbowfish are a family of small, brightly colored fish that come. They are native to the streams, lakes and rivers of Australia, New Guinea, and parts of Indonesia. They are popular among aquarium owners because they are peaceful and easy to care for. They also have beautiful colors that can brighten up any tank.
Rainbowfish come in a variety of colors and patterns, from bright reds and blues to more subtle shades of yellow and orange. They can also have stripes, spots, or other markings. No matter what color you choose, Rainbowfish are sure to add beauty and life to your aquarium.
Rainbowfish are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. They are not picky about what they eat, and will eat almost anything including flakes, pellets, and frozen food. Rainbowfish should be fed a variety of foods, such as flakes, pellets, frozen foods, and live foods. They are a very fast growing fish, and will mature within a year.
Rainbowfish are very active and energetic, and enjoy swimming around in their aquarium. They are very curious, and will enjoy investigating everything in their environment. They are known as very friendly and sociable fish.
Rainbowfish are social creatures and do best when kept in groups of at least six. They can be kept with other peaceful fish, such as tetras and danios, but should not be kept with aggressive fish like cichlids. Rainbowfish also need plenty of swimming space, so it is important that they have a large enough tank.
Rainbowfish are one of the most popular freshwater fish for aquariums, mostly because they are so easy to care for. Most of them are very hardy, and so long as you keep the water clean and stable and feed them, they will stay healthy.
Rainbowfish are very easy to care for, and will only require basic maintenance. Some Rainbowfish are relatively inexpensive, costing less than $10 per fish. Depending on the type you are interested in, others can be $15 to $30 per fish.
Rainbowfish are active fish that love to explore their environment. They will often swim around the tank looking for food and hiding places. They are also very social, so it is important to make sure they have plenty of space and hiding places so they can interact with each other.
Overall, Rainbowfish make great family pets that are easy to care for and add a lot of color and life to your aquarium. They are peaceful fish that get along well with other peaceful species, and their bright colors will add a splash of color to any tank. So if you are looking for a colorful, peaceful fish to add to your aquarium, Rainbowfish may be the perfect choice for you!
Zebra Danios (Zebrafish)
Are you considering getting a new fish but don’t know where to start? Zebrafish may be the perfect choice for you! Zebrafish are small, colorful, and relatively easy to care for. They make great family pets and can bring hours of enjoyment to their owners.
Zebrafish belong to the minnow family and are small freshwater fish native to a river in Eastern India. They have a black and white striped pattern on their bodies, hence the name “Zebrafish”. They can grow up to 2 inches long and live for up to 7 years with proper care.
They are one of the most popular freshwater aquarium fish. They are one of the easiest fish species to care for, and are relatively inexpensive. They are usually kept in community tanks, and are known for being peaceful, docile, and easy to care for. They are very hardy, and can live in a wide range of temperatures.
Zebrafish are very social animals, and enjoy interacting with other fish in their tank. They are also very curious, and enjoy swimming through their environment. These fish are best in a school of 5 or more fish.
Zebrafish are very friendly and sociable, and enjoy interacting socially with other fish in their home. They are also very inquisitive, and will enjoy learning about their environment. They will eat a wide variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and frozen food.
Zebrafish typically cost a little over $2 a fish.
Zebrafish are social creatures and do best when kept in groups of at least 6 fish. They can be kept with other peaceful species such as guppies or tetras. It is important to keep the tank clean by doing regular water changes and cleaning the filter.
Zebrafish are a great choice for beginner fish owners because they are hardy and easy to care for. They are also very active and entertaining to watch, making them a great addition to any home. With proper care, zebrafish can bring years of enjoyment to their owners. So if you’re looking for a pet fish that is easy to care for and fun to watch, consider getting a Zebrafish!
Guppies
Guppies are a popular choice for first time pet owners, and it’s easy to see why. These small, colorful fish are easy to care for, and they make great fish in a community aquarium.
Guppies are native to northern parts of South America, but they can be found in aquariums all over the world. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid colors, stripes, and spots. They’re also relatively small, with adults reaching a maximum size of about 2.5 inches.
With their big eyes and beautiful colors, Guppies have become a favorite of aquarium hobbyists. They would have never become so popular if it weren’t for their great personalities, and hardiness. They are very social and enjoy swimming around with other Guppies.
Guppies are social creatures and do best when kept in groups of at least five fish. They’re also very active and love to explore their environment, so it’s important to provide plenty of hiding places and plants for them to explore.
Guppies are also surprisingly hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. This makes them an ideal choice for first time pet owners who may not have the experience or knowledge to keep more delicate fish species.
Guppies are a popular fish among beginner and experienced aquarists all over the world. The fish is unique with the males able to have every imaginable color variation. They are very active and pleasing to the eye. If this wasn’t enough, this is one of the most affordable fish at the store. Beautiful fish without costing a fortune is a win for any family.
Guppies are an excellent choice for first time pet owners who want a colorful, active fish that’s easy to care for. With the right setup and diet, guppies can be a great addition to any family.
Guppies are also relatively inexpensive, costing between $3 and $5 each so they’re a great choice for those on a budget. There are some types that are much less common and they can sell for more than $40 per fish! They’re also easy to find in pet stores and online, so you won’t have to search far and wide for them.
Overall, Guppies are a great choice for first time pet owners who want an easy to care for and colorful fish. With the right setup and diet, they can be a wonderful addition to any family.
Cherry Barbs
Are you looking for a new fish to add to your home aquarium? If so, you may want to consider the Cherry Barb. This small, peaceful fish is a great choice for first time pet owners and can make an excellent addition to any home aquarium.
The Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya) is a member of the Cyprinidae family and originates from Sri Lanka. They’re a small fish, growing to a maximum size of around 2 inches long. They have an elongated body shape and are usually a bright orange-red color with black stripes running along their sides.
Although they are small, they are very active fish and they need plenty of room for swimming to live a long, healthy life. Cherry Barbs are very easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance. They are also very tolerant of each other, and are one of the less aggressive freshwater fish in most home aquariums.
Cherry Barbs are a common fish in freshwater aquariums. The fish are preferred by aquarists for their ease of maintenance and tolerance of a wide range of water conditions. The fish has bright red colors and enjoys living in a group of 6 or more, filling your tank with beauty and activity.
Despite Cherry Barbs being common in aquariums, they have almost become extinct in the wild due to the loss of their natural habitat.
Cherry Barbs are relatively inexpensive, costing about $2 to $3 per fish.
Cherry Barbs are a great choice for first time pet owners. They are easy to care for and can make an excellent addition to any home aquarium. With their bright colors and peaceful nature, they can be a great source of entertainment and enjoyment for the whole family.
Cherry Barbs are also very active and can be seen swimming around the aquarium in search of food. They are also known to form small schools and will often swim together in groups. This makes them an interesting addition to any home aquarium.
In conclusion, the Cherry Barb is a great choice for newer aquarium owners looking to add some color and activity to their home aquarium. They are easy to care for, peaceful, and can make an excellent addition to any home aquarium . With their bright colors and active nature, they can be a great source of entertainment and enjoyment for the whole family.
Freshwater Angelfish
Are you looking for a new fish to add to your aquarium? Freshwater Angelfish might be the perfect choice for you! These beautiful fish are popular among first time pet owners, and they make great additions to any home.
Freshwater Angelfish are a type of tropical fish that come from South America. They have long, slender bodies and bright colors that range from yellow to blue. Freshwater Angelfish are typically about 6 – 10 inches long, and weigh as much as 2 pounds.
If you’ve ever wanted to own a fish that is both beautiful and entertaining, then you might want to consider getting a Freshwater Angelfish. These fish are colorful, and friendly. They are also very hardy and can survive in a range of temperatures.
Freshwater Angelfish are very easy to care for. When it comes to food, Freshwater Angelfish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live food. They are very curious, and will swim right up to you to see what you’re feeding them.
There are more than 30 species of Angelfish. Most of them are tropical fish that live in saltwater but a few live in freshwater. Angelfish are named for their round, flat, fluffy pout, which resembles a human angel’s face. They have prominent dorsal and pectoral fins and a long flowing tail. Their bodies are covered with tiny scales.
They are very attractive fish, and look great in any aquarium, but because they are an aggressive fish it will limit what you can have with them. The average price of a Freshwater Angelfish is about $20, and they can be found at most local pet stores.
Overall, Freshwater Angelfish are a great choice for first time pet owners. They are beautiful, easy to care for, and can bring years of joy to your family. With proper research and care, these fish can be a wonderful addition to any home.
If you’re looking for a fish that is both beautiful and easy to care for, Freshwater Angelfish are the perfect choice. They make wonderful additions to any home and can bring years of joy to your family.
Corydoras Catfish
Are you looking for a new fish to add to your home aquarium? If so, you may want to consider the Corydoras Catfish. These small, peaceful fish are a great choice for new aquarium owners and can make a wonderful addition.
Corydoras Catfish are native to South America’s rivers and come in a variety of colors and patterns. They have an elongated body shape and can grow up to four inches in length. They are bottom dwellers, meaning they spend most of their time near the substrate of the aquarium.
When people think of Corydoras Catfish (also known as Cory Catfish), they think of an algae eater, but what you might not know is that Cory Catfish are also known for their beautiful colors. Not only do they come in a variety of interesting colors, but they also have a number of beautiful patterns. These patterns tend to be thicker on their rear and thinner on their head.
They are small fish, and they’re one of the most popular catfish species on the market today. Cory Catfish are a very active species of catfish. They’re known for being non aggressive towards other fish.
One of the best things about Cory Catfish is that they can get along with most tank mates. They’re particularly nice with other species of fish, and they won’t hurt smaller fish either. Corydoras catfish are very hardy and can survive in a wide range of temperatures.
Corydoras catfish are peaceful, friendly fish that are easy to care for. They are very attractive, and will make a nice addition to any aquarium. They are very easy to maintain, and only need minimal attention.
Corydoras Catfish are a peaceful species that get along well with other fish. They prefer to be kept in groups of at least five. Keeping them in groups helps them feel secure and reduces their stress levels.
Corydoras Catfish are omnivores, meaning they will eat both plant and animal matter. They prefer a diet of small live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, bloodworms, and daphnia. They also enjoy sinking pellets and flakes. It is important to provide them with a varied diet to ensure they get all the nutrients they need.
Overall, Corydoras Catfish are an excellent choice for first time pet owners. They are peaceful, active fish that get along well with other species. They require minimal care and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. With the right diet and environment, they can make wonderful family pets.
Freshwater Crabs
Are you considering getting a pet, but don’t want the same old cats and dogs? Freshwater crabs may be the perfect pet for you! These small crustaceans are becoming increasingly popular as family pets.
Freshwater crabs are members of the family Potamidae, which includes over 700 species of freshwater crabs found all over the world. They come in a variety of sizes , colors, and shapes. Some of the most popular species of freshwater crabs include the red claw crab, the fiddler crab, and the blue land crab.
There are a number of different types of crabs available in the United States, and they all have different sizes, shapes, colors, and activity levels. There is a type for every family. These critters are ideal for kids, and parents will love that they only need to be fed once a day, and that they can clean up after themselves. While they may not be as popular as dogs and cats, freshwater crabs are just as fun and easy to take care of, and can provide years of enjoyment.
Freshwater crabs are a great option for anyone who wants a pet that doesn’t need too much of their time. They can be fed once per day, and they will clean up after themselves. They are relatively inexpensive to purchase, and they are easy to care for. They are also a good introduction to the world of pet keeping for young children.
Families love them because they are relatively inexpensive, they are a great option for those who want to start out small. They are also easy to care for, requiring minimal attention. They are also a lot of fun to look at, and they don’t require much space. Because they’re so small they can be kept in an aquarium as small as 5 or 10 gallons.
What they lack in looks they make up for in personality. Freshwater crabs are active little creatures that will scuttle around the floor of your tank, looking for things to scavenge. This is usually food that others in the tank didn’t eat. A freshwater crab is just one of the many unique animals that make a great addition to your family’s aquarium.
Freshwater crabs are omnivores, meaning they will eat both plant and animal matter. They can be fed a variety of foods such as shrimp, fish, vegetables, and even commercial crab food. It is important to provide them with a balanced diet in order to keep them healthy.
Freshwater crabs are social creatures and can be kept in groups. They are also very active and will often climb on rocks, explore their tank, and even dig tunnels. Watching them play is a great way to bond with your pet crab.
Freshwater crabs are also relatively low maintenance pets. They require weekly water changes and occasional tank cleanings, but other than that they don’t need much attention. This makes them a great pet for busy people who don’t have a lot of time to devote to their pet.
Overall, freshwater crabs can make great family pets. They are easy to care for and provide hours of entertainment. If you’re looking for something different than the usual cats and dogs, then freshwater crabs may be the perfect pet for you!
Oscars
Oscars are a species of fish that has become increasingly popular in family aquariums. They are native to South America and can be found in the Amazon River basin, where they thrive in warm, shallow waters. Oscars are known for their vibrant colors and playful personalities, making them an ideal choice for those looking for a unique and entertaining pet.
Oscars are part of the Cichlid family, which includes other popular aquarium fish such as angelfish and discus. They are relatively easy to care for and can live up to 15 years with proper care. Oscars are omnivorous, meaning they will eat both plant-based and meat-based foods.
Oscars are one of the most popular species of fish for freshwater aquariums. They are often included in larger starter aquariums, and are known for being quite active. They are a type of cichlid fish, originating in rivers in South America’s Amazon. They are known to be aggressive with each other and other fish species.
Because of their aggressive nature the Oscar is usually the first fish for the aquarium. We suggest that you pick its tank mates carefully to avoid having your entire aquarium eaten by your Oscar. This is why it’s generally a bad idea to introduce this fish to an existing aquarium as an afterthought.
They are nocturnal, which means they spend the day sleeping in a sheltered spot, and come out at night to hunt for food. For a family aquarium this could be a bit of a problem, but generally they will be alerted at feeding time by the splashing and movement of other fish in their tank
Though they are more aggressive than other tropical fish, they are still relatively easy to care for, because they are hardy fish and don’t need anything special to survive. When it comes time to feed them, Oscar will eat just about anything you give them, including flakes, frozen food, live food, and even vegetables.
They are very colorful, and have a wide variety of colors and patterns. Even after all of the warnings, many families can’t resist buying an Oscar because their coloring makes them a very attractive addition to almost any tank.
They are also very hardy and resilient, and will withstand a wide range of conditions without issue. Oscars can be purchased from pet stores, and will cost anywhere from $10-$20 per fish. Less common ones will range from $30 to over $100.
Oscars are very active and playful, making them a great choice for those looking for an interactive pet.
Overall, Oscars make great fish that are both beautiful and entertaining. With proper care, they can provide years of enjoyment and companionship. If you’re looking for a unique and interactive pet, an Oscar might be the perfect choice for you.
Platies
Platies are a popular choice for family pets, especially for new aquarium owners. They are small, colorful fish that come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them an attractive addition to any tank. Platies are also relatively easy to care for, making them ideal for those who may not have much experience with aquariums.
Platies are a type of freshwater fish native to Central and South America. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from rivers and streams to lakes and ponds. They are one of the smaller types of fish, only growing to about 2 inches long. They are very colorful, and can have many different colors.
Platies are very hardy fish that can withstand a range of temperatures. Because of their temperature tolerance, they are perfect for beginners looking to start a tropical fish aquarium. They are also very easy to care for and will eat a wide range of foods.
Platies are very easy to care for, and require little maintenance. They are also relatively inexpensive, making them a great choice for first-time aquarists. They are also very friendly and sociable fish, and will adapt well in a community tank.
Platies are social fish that prefer to be kept in groups of at least three or four individuals. They are peaceful fish that get along well with other community fish, such as tetras, barbs, and danios.
When it comes to tank size, Platies do best in a tank of at least 10 gallons. They are active swimmers and need plenty of room to swim around. A larger tank will also help keep the water quality stable, which is important for the health of your fish.
When it comes to tank decorations, Platies prefer plenty of hiding places and plants. They are shy fish and will appreciate having plenty of places to hide. Live plants are also beneficial as they provide oxygen to the water and help keep it clean.
They are also very pretty, and will look stunning in any aquarium. While it’s true that Platies aren’t the flashiest freshwater fish out there, they are, in our opinion, one of the best fish for your aquarium. Platies are relatively hardy, so they’re a good choice for beginners and they have a long lifespan.
If you wanted to get some Platies for your aquarium they’ll cost you about $2 per fish.
Overall, Platies make great family pets for new aquarium owners. They are colorful, hardy fish that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions and get along well with other community fish. With proper care and maintenance, Platies can live for up to five years in the home aquarium.
Plecostomus
Are you a new aquarium owner looking for the perfect fish to add to your tank? If so, you may want to consider the Plecostomus. This unique fish is an excellent choice for beginner aquarists and can make a great addition to any tank.
The Plecostomus, or “Pleco” as they are often called, belong to the family Loricariidae and are native to South America. They are a popular choice for aquariums because of their hardy nature and interesting appearance. Plecos come in a variety of colors and sizes, ranging from the small “Dwarf Pleco” to the large “Common Pleco”.
Plecostomus are great fish for your family’s aquarium for many reasons. First, they are easy to take care of. They’re not picky and the only thing they require is a lot of water to swim in. They can save you money by not needing an expensive filter. The Plecostomus doesn’t need a fancy filter because they are the filter eating up everything at the bottom of your aquarium. Third, they are very low maintenance.
Plecos are bottom-dwelling fish that feed on algae, making them ideal for tanks with algae problems. They are also peaceful fish that get along well with other tankmates, making them a great choice for community tanks.
Plecostomus are like a vacuum at the bottom of your aquarium. They do a lot to keep your aquarium clean and keep all the bad waste chemicals to a minimum between water changes. They do a lot to help keep the overall health of the other fish high.
They are not very active and will spend most of their time hanging out at the bottom of their tank. They have a pleasant disposition. They are not as aggressive as other types of fish and they don’t nip the fins of other fish.
A Plecostomus isn’t a fish that many think about when you’re looking to add a new member to your aquarium. But they really should be because they are a great fish for even the most experienced aquarium owner.
You can purchase a Plecostomus for between $5 and $8.
Plecos are a great fish, because they are active during the day and are easy to find in your aquarium. They are also relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional feedings of algae wafers or blanched vegetables.
Overall, Plecostomus are an excellent choice for beginner aquarists. They are hardy, peaceful fish that can help keep your tank clean and make a great addition to any aquarium. So if you’re looking for the perfect fish for your tank, consider adding a Plecostomus today!
Freshwater Shrimp
Are you looking for a new pet to add to your family? If so, Freshwater Shrimp may be the perfect choice! Freshwater Shrimp are small, colorful crustaceans that can make great additions to any aquarium. They are relatively easy to care for and can provide hours of entertainment as they explore their environment.
Freshwater shrimp come in a variety of colors and sizes, making them an attractive addition to any tank. They are also relatively hardy and can survive in a wide range of water conditions. This makes them an ideal choice for beginner aquarists who may not have the experience to care for more delicate species.
Shrimp are small crustaceans that are native to tropical waters. Freshwater Shrimp are the rockstars of the aquarium pet world. The small crustacean brings color, adventure, and a sense of wonder to any tank, whether it’s a plexiglass cube in your bedroom, or an epic series of custom aquariums in your living room.
Freshwater Shrimp are loved for their ability to eat leftover food and algae, which makes them a great addition to tanks with messy eaters. Shrimp can be kept in pairs, trios, or groups. They are generally peaceful, and don’t tend to fight each other.
Shrimp are also great at keeping the tank clean, such as the Ghost Shrimp, who naturally consume decaying plant matter. If you are looking for a natural way to keep your tank clean, a few Freshwater Shrimp may be what you need!
Shrimp are very hardy and resilient, and can survive in a wide variety of conditions. They are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and meat. They can be kept in tanks with other aquatic life. They are also very easy to feed, and will accept virtually anything that is fed to them. They are scavengers, so they will help keep the tank clean by eating any leftover food or waste.
Shrimp are very easy to care for, requiring no special equipment or preparation. They are also relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at local fish shops.
When it comes to housing freshwater shrimp, there are a few things to consider. First, they need plenty of hiding places and decorations in their aquarium. This will give them a safe place to hide when they feel threatened or stressed. Second, they need a filter to keep the water clean and oxygenated. Finally, they need a heater to maintain a consistent temperature in their tank.
Freshwater Shrimp can be kept with other fish, but it is important to choose species that are compatible with each other. Some fish may view the Shrimp as food and try to eat them, so it is best to avoid aggressive or large species. It is also important to ensure that the tank is large enough to accommodate all of the inhabitants.
Overall, Freshwater Shrimp can make great additions to any aquarium. They are relatively easy to care for and provide hours of entertainment as they explore their environment. With the right setup and compatible tank mates, they can be a wonderful addition to any family.
Mollies
Mollies are a very popular fish for freshwater aquariums. Their bright colors and being easy to care for make them a top choice for many family’s. All species of Mollies are peaceful and pleasant fish, making them great additions to saltwater tanks with other peaceful species.
A Molly is a great fish to start with for your family’s freshwater aquarium. The Molly fish is a freshwater livebearer species that has adapted to life in saltwater and freshwater aquariums, but studies have shown that the Mollies can’t survive in freshwater after having been conditioned in the saltwater environment.
Mollies are a great choice for your aquarium because they are a schooling fish. They do best when there are at least 6 of them. They should be kept in a tank that has enough swimming space for the school to be able to move around.
These are one of the most popular fishes for less experienced families starting a saltwater aquarium. Mollies are hardy and are considered to be low maintenance. They do require places to shelter and reproduce. If your aquarium doesn’t already have plants consider adding some to the tank. Plants will mean extra lighting may be needed during the daytime.
This fish will peacefully live in a community setting of a healthy environment for up to five years. Families will enjoy watching the schools of these fish swim, and the beautiful colors that they’ll bring to your family’s aquarium.
| Freshwater fish | Size | Characteristic | Cost | Lifespan |
| GoldFish | 2 – 6 inches | Social and love living in groups. The fish is intelligent and easily gets used to its owner. | $1 – $5 | 10 – 30 years |
| Betta | 2.25 inches | Aggressive towards other fish types | $4 – $10 | 2 – 3 years |
| Neon Tetra | 1.5 – 2.5 inches | Easy to keep and can live in a group with other species of fish | $1 – $2 | 5 – 10 years |
| Rainbowfish | 6 inches | Very peaceful fish with vibrant colors. However, the fish requires extra care to show the colors. | $2 – $10 | 5 years |
| Zebra Danios | 1.5 – 2.5 inches | Very active fish that adjusts to any water temperature. Can live as a group of not more than 5 zebra Danios in a tank. | $1 – $5 | 5 – 7 years |
| Guppies | 0.6 – 2.4 inches | Compatible even with other fish species and is very peaceful. | $2 – $8 | 2 years |
| Cherry Barb | 2 inches | Peaceful fish that often occupies the corner of the aquarium. The fish can live together with a tetra in the same tank. | $1 – $6 | 5 – 7 years |
Comparison between Different Freshwater Fish Species
The thought of buying a fish to keep as a pet is not only exciting but it can also be intimidating. There are so many freshwater fish species that make great pets.
When buying a fish, you should think about how large they will be as an adult. Some remain small as adults while others can become much larger and you don’t want them to outgrow their tank as adults. The size of the fish you want determines the size of the aquarium you will need.
You should also look for a fish that requires low maintenance, especially if you’re a beginner. Maintenance entails feeding, cleaning, and susceptibility to illnesses.
It’s also very important to select fish types that don’t mind living with other fish. Some fish are aggressive and prefer living alone, but many others love living in groups.
Cost of Having a Fish
Other than buying a fish, the total cost of keeping a fish depends on the equipment required to set up your aquarium. There are additional miscellaneous costs, and food. Most people don’t factor in veterinary charges because the cost of a vet visit is often many times greater than the cost of the fish.
Fish are a low maintenance pet compared to other pets, which is why most people prefer having pet fish in their homes.
Here is a table detailing some of the costs you might incur before and after bringing home a finned friend.
| Item | Cost |
| Fish | $1 – $10 |
| Gravel /decorations | $1 – $30 |
| Aquarium | 10 gallon aquarium $10 – $3030 – 50 gallon aquarium $350 – $580 |
| Aquarium heater | $15 – $30 |
| Filters & Air Pumps | $70 – $100 |
| Lighting | $5 – $30 |
| Feeding | $10 – $100 annually |
| Veterinary charges | For most fish, zero |
| Water test kits | $50 |
The initial cost of owning a fish is not terribly expensive and there are many species to choose from in your local pet store. Notably, some exotic fish species can cost more than $100, however these fish are not as common in a family fish tank.
Lighting and heating options for an aquarium are optional because most fish can do without them. However, depending on the specific pet fish you have, you need to adjust temperatures to their particular needs. While the fish don’t require lighting to survive, the light makes the aquarium beautiful for your enjoyment.
If your home is about 74 degrees Fahrenheit, then you don’t have to have water heaters in your aquarium for many types of fish.
The gravel, stones, and other decorations often depend on the fish type, the size of the tank, and your taste in decorations. The cost of decorations varies from person to person.
What is the Ideal Habitat for a FreshWater Fish?
Materials Used
Before buying an aquarium, you’ll need to know what types of fish and how many you want to have. Aquariums are made of either acrylic or glass. Glass aquariums are more common because they are cheaper. Aquariums made from acrylic are generally higher end for tanks larger than 50 gallons. Because of the price and size we will not cover them in this article.
Glass aquariums are less expensive, easy to clean and are also scratch resistant. Most families will choose these because of price, but also because it will be big enough for the fish they select.
Size and shape
When buying a fish tank, the rule of thumb is always having a gallon of water for every fish inch. Larger tanks are better than small ones because it gives your fish more space to swim. A larger tank also allows you to make mistakes and have them not be as bad as they would be in a smaller aquarium. Mistakes get diluted more with the extra water in your larger aquarium, and smaller aquariums have less water to dilute the mistakes.
A nice long rectangular fish tank lets your fish move around and lets the water and oxygen circulate.
Substrate
A fish substrate is often composed of gravel, sand, and a variety of stones. Even though the substrate is optional, it adds aesthetic value to your aquarium. Substrates come in all forms of colors and shapes. It’s a good idea to take time and identify a substrate that matches the theme and colors of your aquarium.
Other than the aesthetic value, substrates also act as a medium where healthy bacteria can live and break down nitrogen to release oxygen for your fish. The substrate is also a place where living plants can grow and provide oxygen for your fish.
Some freshwater fish love burrowing at the bottom of the aquarium for safety. By having a substrate that your fish prefer, you give them an extra sense of security. Sand is the best type of substrate for fish that love burrowing.
If you don’t have a substrate at the bottom of your tank, it could cause a reflection of your fish at the bottom. Some fish types may get frightened by the reflected images. Gravel is cheap and very common and it creates a more natural bottom to your tank.
The substrate also acts as a laying ground for your fish. The gravel hides their eggs to prevent other fish in the aquarium from eating them until they hatch. This is really only important if you are interested in having your fish breed.
If you decide to use a gravel substrate, and you want live aquatic plants, then you will want between one and a half to two inches. The deeper substrate gives the plant roots room to take hold otherwise they may not have enough space for the roots. If you decide to use sand or go without living plants then the substrate only needs to be between one and one and a half inches deep.
What is the Best Aquarium Size?
Unlike most saltwater pet fish species, freshwater ones are hardy and don’t need big fish tanks. Here is a table showing some of the most common freshwater pet fish and their recommended minimum aquarium size.
| Fish | Aquarium size |
| Goldfish | 20 gallons |
| Zebra Danios | 10 gallons |
| Betta Fish | 5 gallons |
| Neon Tetra | 10 gallons |
| Guppies | 10 gallons |
| Rainbow Fish | 30 – 55 gallons depending on subspecies |
The bigger the tank size, the better for your pet because they get more space to swim. It’s also easier to manage oxygen absorption in a bigger tank as opposed to a smaller one. If you plan on having more than one fish type in the aquarium, then a bigger tank is extremely important.
Food Preference for Freshwater Fish
Young fish should eat more protein and fewer carbohydrates for fast growth. On the other hand, adult fish have lower metabolism levels and should eat more carbs and fewer proteins.
Overfeeding your fish is a problem because the uneaten food ends up collecting in the substrate as waste. The waste decomposes and deteriorates the water quality in your fish tank. The more of this decaying matter that builds up, the faster the water quality will drop.
Adult fish should eat once a day at the same time. Younger fish are more active and may require feeding roughly three times a day. Fish that eat vegetables also tend to eat throughout the day because of their small stomachs. If you can place bits of algae or other plants in their tank for them, they can nibble whenever they want.
You can get different food types for your fish from pet stores. Flakes exist in different shapes, colors, and sizes and different fish can detect .
You should also supplement the flakes with frozen or live food for your freshwater fish for proper nutrition and overall health. You will notice the fish that eat meat will be much more active during feeding if you give them frozen or live food.
Some of the best frozen foods include brine shrimp and it’s also possible to buy living brine shrimp for your pets. Some of the safest live foods also include earthworms, water fleas, mosquito larva, and wingless fruit flies.
Herbivore fish species like the Mollies enjoy fresh vegetables like spinach, dried algae, or frozen kelp. Fish are a lot like people and enjoy some variety in their diets. You will keep them more healthy by feeding them different foods from day to day. There are many varieties to choose from with a quick search in your nearby pet stores.
Aggressiveness in Freshwater Fish
Some fish species can become aggressive, especially if living as a group. Experts say that fish become aggressive if they’re trying to protect their offspring or territory or win a mate. Sometimes aggressive behaviors can lead to the death of other fish.
In a small aquarium the fish may not feel like there is enough space and you may see some fish chasing other fish around. This may become common during feeding times if they feel that there is not enough room for them to feed together. With a big tank the chances of their aggressive behavior is greatly reduced.
Here are some signs of aggressive behavior in fish.
- Flaring of fins
- Chasing
- Nipping
General Freshwater Fish Care
To support aquatic life, the water in the aquarium requires balancing several different things. It’s very important to use a dechlorinating agent coupled with an aquarium supplement to achieve the best conditions. Chlorinated water isn’t good for your fish and it needs to be neutralized.
The water should be tested for the PH levels at least once a week using the testing kits. The ideal PH for freshwater fish lies between 6.8 and 7.5, depending on the specific fish you have.
The temperatures of the aquarium should also be maintained between 72 °F and 82 °F, again depending on the types of fish you have. Ensure that your fish tank is placed out of direct sunlight, near windows or near vents. Vents circulate air, which could alter temperatures in your tank. A drastic change in water temperatures can quickly kill your fish. The good news is that you can also regulate temperatures in the aquarium using an aquarium heater.
Water changes in your aquarium should be done every week or every other week depending on what fish you have and how many. Depending on a few variables you’ll want to change between 10 to 25% at a time. Changing the water ensures that nitrate levels in the water don’t accumulate to toxic levels.
If you feed your fish algae, you can also expect a buildup of the algae at the bottom or on the sides of the aquarium. Water with algae appears murky, and the glass becomes cloudy.
Algae magnets or a brush can clean out the algae from the aquarium glass. The substrate can be cleaned by using a gravel vacuum that can filter out the debris leaving your gravel intact.
The filtration system in your fish tank should also be well maintained to avoid having the filters get clogged, and not filtering the water. A total clean out for your filters is recommended every 3 months to ensure that they continue to function correctly.
In a nutshell, having an aquarium in the home often reduces stress and helps people relax. Aquariums also add to the aesthetic look of a home. They are a fairly low maintenance way to beautify your home and give you something to watch other than television.
Basic Facts about Freshwater Fish
There are about 10,000 freshwater fish species in the world and about 800 species in North America alone.
Pet fish are also intelligent and can remember things, regardless of what the myths may tell you. Goldfish often rub against other fish in the tank as a sign of showing affection.
Fish species also communicate with each other through low-frequency sounds. Experts also say that fish are known to cooperate and live harmoniously in groups.
Maryna is an animal expert that has had dozens of animals in her life over the years. She has never found an animal that she didn't love immediately. It seems like every year she finds kittens that have been abandoned by their mom and she nurses them to health and finds homes for them. She contributes her vast knowledge about animals and family pets to our website and we're forever grateful to have her working with us. She's also an amazing graphics designer and has designed all of the social media images that we use across all platforms.