Embarking on the exciting journey of fishkeeping? Here’s a look at the top 20 best pet fish species for beginners, as we dive into their unique personalities, mesmerizing appearances, and easy-to-maintain needs—all wrapped up in one fantastic underwater world!
by Fabian
Updated: April 27, 2023 / 11 mins read
Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.
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Guppy Fish
Guppy Fish, known for their vivid colors and lovely tails, make excellent beginner pets due to their hardy nature and ease of care. These peaceful community fish effortlessly add life and color to any home aquarium.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:2-3 years
- Temperature:72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Adult Size:0.6-2.4 in (1.5-6 cm)
Guppies can adapt to various water conditions, and their social nature makes them a delightful addition to a thriving community tank.
Betta
Betta Fish, prized for their vibrant colors and flowing fins, are ideal for beginners seeking a low-maintenance yet striking pet. Although known for their territorial behavior, proper tank setup can prevent disputes among tankmates.
- Temperament:Semi-aggressive
- Diet:Carnivore
- Tank Size:5 gallons (19 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:3-5 years
- Temperature:76-82°F (24-28°C)
- Adult Size:2.5-3 in (6-8 cm)
Despite their reputation, Betta Fish can coexist with other species in a carefully planned aquarium setup. Quiet, peaceful tankmates are preferred, ensuring your betta’s wellbeing and thriving environment.
Molly Fish
Molly Fish are lively, robust, and versatile, making them perfect for beginners. Their gentle temperament and straightforward care requirements allow them to thrive in a variety of tank setups.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:3-5 years
- Temperature:72-78°F (22-26°C)
- Adult Size:1.5-4.5 in (4-12 cm)
Mollies enjoy swimming in small groups and entertaining their owners with their vibrant personalities. Adaptable to both freshwater and brackish environments, they can bring life and energy to any beginner’s aquarium.
Swordtails
Swordtails are renowned for their elongated tails and striking colors, making them an attractive and low-maintenance choice for first-time aquarists.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:15 gallons (57 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:3-5 years
- Temperature:72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Adult Size:4-5.5 in (10-14 cm)
These resilient, fast-swimming fish thrive in a community tank with plenty of swimming space and plants for shelter. As swordtails can reproduce quickly, it’s essential to monitor their population to maintain a harmonious and balanced aquarium environment.
Platies
Playful and colorful, Platies are a joy to watch and a fantastic option for novice fishkeepers searching for hardy, easy-going companions.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:3-5 years
- Temperature:70-80°F (21-27°C)
- Adult Size:1.5-2.5 in (4-6 cm)
Platies coexist peacefully with other non-aggressive fish species, adding vibrancy to any community tank. These low-maintenance swimmers are adaptable and thrive in various water conditions, making them a popular choice for those starting their fishkeeping journey.
Corydoras
Corydoras, also known as Cory Catfish, are endearing bottom-dwellers that make an excellent addition to a beginner-friendly community tank, thanks to their amiable nature and unique appearance.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:5-8 years
- Temperature:72-78°F (22-26°C)
- Adult Size:1-3 in (2.5-7.5 cm)
These adorable little helpers enjoy sifting through the substrate for scraps, thus assisting in maintaining aquarium cleanliness. Keeping them in groups of six or more will deter potential shyness and allow their personalities to truly shine.
Neon Tetras
Neon Tetras, with their striking colors and energetic schooling behavior, make a captivating addition to any beginner’s aquarium setup.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:5-10 years
- Temperature:68-78°F (20-26°C)
- Adult Size:1-1.5 in (2.5-4 cm)
Ideal for community tanks, these small yet vibrant fish add a pop of color as they swim together in groups of six or more. With their peaceful temperament and straightforward care requirements, Neon Tetras are an excellent option for those venturing into the world of fish keeping.
Zebra Fish
Zebra Fish, also known as Zebra Danios, boast captivating stripes and lively personalities, making them an enchanting addition for beginner aquarists.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:3-5 years
- Temperature:64-74°F (18-24°C)
- Adult Size:1.5-2 in (4-5 cm)
These fast swimmers enjoy schooling in groups of at least five, adding an element of playfulness and energy to any community tank. Widely regarded as hardy and easy to care for, Zebra Fish makes an excellent choice for first-time fishkeepers.
Tiger Barbs
Tiger Barbs, known for their striking appearance and spirited nature, are a captivating and hardy option for those entering the world of fish keeping.
- Temperament:Semi-aggressive
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:5-7 years
- Temperature:72-82°F (22-28°C)
- Adult Size:2-3 in (5-7.5 cm)
While their semi-aggressive demeanor can lead to occasional fin-nipping, keeping Tiger Barbs in groups of five or more helps curb this behavior. With proper tankmates and ample space, these captivating fish make a delightful addition to a beginner’s aquarium.
Common Goldfish
A classic favorite, the Common Goldfish makes a hardy and rewarding choice for beginner fishkeepers, despite some misconceptions about their care requirements.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Moderate
- Lifespan:10-15 years
- Temperature:65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Adult Size:10-12 in (25-30 cm)
Goldfish need adequate space to accommodate their large size and waste production, as well as efficient filtration. With a proper environment and regular care, these beautiful fish can thrive and provide years of enjoyment for novice and experienced aquarists alike.
Harlequin Rasboras
Harlequin Rasboras, with their elegant appearance and peaceful nature, are an ideal addition to any beginner-friendly community tank.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:5-8 years
- Temperature:72-81°F (22-27°C)
- Adult Size:1.5-2 in (4-5 cm)
These small yet striking fish prefer to school together in groups of at least six, which adds a soothing, coordinated display of color to your aquarium. Easy to care for and suitable for various water conditions, Harlequin Rasboras make a delightful choice for newcomers to fish keeping.
White Cloud Minnow
The White Cloud Minnow, revered for its radiant appearance and adaptability, is a splendid option for beginners looking to brighten up their aquarium.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:5-7 years
- Temperature:60-72°F (16-22°C)
- Adult Size:1.5-2 in (4-5 cm)
These peaceful fish thrive in cooler waters and enjoy swimming in groups of at least five, making them perfect for community tanks. As hardy, low-maintenance pets, White Cloud Minnows are an excellent choice for a first-time fishkeeper to explore.
Cherry Barbs
Cherry Barbs, admired for their vibrant hues and serene disposition, make an excellent addition to any beginner’s community tank.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:4-6 years
- Temperature:73-81°F (23-27°C)
- Adult Size:1.5-2 in (4-5 cm)
These colorful fish are easy to care for and thrive in well-planted aquariums with plenty of hiding spots. Best kept in schools of six or more, Cherry Barbs bring a calming presence and harmonious splash of color to any aquatic environment.
Kuhli Loach
The uniquely shaped Kuhli Loach, resembling an underwater snake, fascinates beginner aquarists with its charming looks and bottom-dwelling antics.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Moderate
- Lifespan:10-15 years
- Temperature:74-86°F (24-30°C)
- Adult Size:3-4 in (7.5-10 cm)
These nocturnal creatures require a soft, sandy substrate for burrowing, along with plenty of hiding spots like caves and plants. Best kept in groups of three or more, Kuhli Loaches bring character and intrigue to any community tank while providing natural substrate cleaning services.
Rosy Tetras
Rosy Tetras, boasting a lovely mix of soft pink and vibrant red hues, create a delightful visual spectacle for beginner fish keepers to enjoy.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:5-7 years
- Temperature:74-82°F (24-28°C)
- Adult Size:1.5-2 in (4-5 cm)
These placid fish flourish in groups of six or more, adding an enchanting array of colors to your aquarium. Rosy Tetras are well-suited for community tanks and require minimal maintenance, making them a stress-free and visually rewarding choice for newcomers to fish keeping.
Rummy Nose Tetras
Rummy Nose Tetras, known for their striking red noses and synchronized swimming patterns, captivate beginner aquarists with their energetic presence.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Moderate
- Lifespan:5-6 years
- Temperature:75-81°F (24-27°C)
- Adult Size:2-2.5 in (5-7 cm)
Strength in numbers is crucial for these fish, as they thrive best in schools of at least six. Although slightly more sensitive to water conditions, a well-maintained and carefully monitored tank ensures Rummy Nose Tetras will provide mesmerizing entertainment for your at-home aquatic environment.
Ricefish
Ricefish, appreciated for their small size and simple elegance, make a delightful and low-maintenance addition for beginner-friendly tanks.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:10 gallons (38 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:3-5 years
- Temperature:70-79°F (21-26°C)
- Adult Size:1-2 in (2.5-5 cm)
Best kept in groups of at least five, these petite fish showcase charming, playful behavior while peacefully coexisting with other community tank members. With straightforward care requirements and the ability to adapt to various water conditions, Ricefish make a charming option for novice fish keepers.
Gourami
Gouramis, admired for their vibrant colors and peaceful demeanor, offer various beginner-friendly species to showcase in a budding aquarium.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:4-6 years
- Temperature:77-82°F (25-28°C)
- Adult Size:2-6 in (5-15 cm) depending on the species
These gentle swimmers can be kept alongside other similarly sized, non-aggressive fish, adding a touch of grace and elegance to your aquatic environment. With proper tank conditions and care, Gouramis make an enchanting and low-maintenance choice for beginner aquarists.
Angelfish
With their glamorous, otherworldly appearance, Angelfish make an alluring choice for aquarists looking to add unique beauty and character to their tank.
- Temperament:Semi-aggressive
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:30 gallons (114 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Moderate
- Lifespan:10-12 years
- Temperature:75-82°F (24-28°C)
- Adult Size:6 in (15 cm) height, 10-12 in (25-30 cm) with fins
Though they demand more attention than other beginner-friendly fish species, Angelfish reward dedicated caretakers with their eye-catching presence. Suitable tankmates and regular maintenance ensure a harmonious, visually stunning underwater world for you and your aquatic pets.
Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose Plecos, adored for their peculiar appearance and algae-fighting skills, make a valuable addition to any beginner aquarist’s tank.
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Diet:Omnivore
- Tank Size:20 gallons (76 liters) minimum
- Care Level:Easy
- Lifespan:5-10 years
- Temperature:72-79°F (22-26°C)
- Adult Size:4-6 in (10-15 cm)
These fascinating bottom-dwellers diligently help maintain your aquarium’s cleanliness, ensuring a healthy aquatic ecosystem. Bristlenose Plecos require hiding spots such as caves or driftwood for comfort and enjoy a diet rich in both vegetable and protein sources. With their hardy nature and intriguing aesthetics, they make a delightful companion for first-time fishkeepers.
Conclusion
Embarking on your fishkeeping adventure has never been more enticing with these 20 fantastic beginner-friendly fish species. Each brings its unique charms to your underwater oasis, ensuring a visually stunning, harmonious environment. Now, we’d love to hear your thoughts—what striking species caught your eye?
