What Type Of Tropical Fish To Choose For Your Tank?
If you are like most people, you have probably had a lot of advice about how to keep your aquarium in good shape in regards to pH level, nitrate and phosphate levels, and all the other technical advice that keeps your tank looking good and sustainable for the fish. But have you found a lot of advice about how to choose the fish that will do well in your tank?
For instance, do you know how to choose fish that will fit your tank when they mature? Or do you know what fish will live well with other fish? Many people do not know the answers to these questions because there is not a lot of information about how to stock your tank with fish. So let’s address some key issues right now.
Saltwater Versus Freshwater Fish
Usually, freshwater fish are recommended for people who have never had an aquarium before. This is even more true if children are going to be predominately looking after the fish. Freshwater fish can handle living conditions that are not perfect, and most mistakes that beginners make, such as improper temperatures, are not going to kill off these fish. This not only makes it easier to look after these fish, but cheaper to maintain their aquarium in most cases.
However, if you are looking for more colorful fish, then a saltwater fish is your best bet. Brushing up on your aquarium skills, or seeking the help from an experienced person, is highly recommended in this case. If not, the fish may die from unfavorable conditions, and this will be a waste for everyone involved, including the fish.
Other Considerations When Choosing Your Fish
Now you should be beginning to see that you cannot just walk into a store and pick any fish you want. Conditions have to favorable for the fish in your aquarium, and the fish has to fit your needs and capabilities as a fish owner. Therefore, ensure that you take the following things into consideration.
- Size Of Fish: You will probably buy a fish in its baby state. While many fish will stay relatively the same size, many more will grow into larger fish. When buying fish, it is best to ask questions that concern their adult size. For instance, will your tank be able to handle their growth? How many fish could you purchase and still have lots of room for, no matter how large they grow? Fish do not like to be overcrowded and can suffer severe stress when their environment is too small, which could result in death.
- Diet Of Fish: Just like humans, all fish prefer different foods. Some eat frozen food, some eat flakes, some eat live food, and some eat pretty much anything. When considering various fish for your aquarium, take into account their individual diets. You may want to get various fish that all eat the same diet to avoid extra costs and energy on your part.
- Fish Compatibility: Not all fish get along. Some fish can become very aggressive when put with other fish. They can bully other fish by nipping at them, and they can start fights with other fish that can have very bad results. Therefore, if you plan to have more than one fish in your aquarium, look for fish that get along. That way you will not have to witness any injuries or deaths from fighting.
- Temperature Of Water: Contrary to popular belief, the ocean is not the same temperature in all areas. Different regions have different water temperatures and it is important to ensure that the fish you buy will all be compatible in the same water temperature. Even if they are labeled ‘tropical fish’, do not assume that they will do well in the same tank. Talk to someone knowledgeable to find out what their temperature needs are.
- Life Span: How long do you want to commit to your fish? Fish are a serious commitment as some can live well past ten years. Take into consideration how long you plan to live where you are, and make your decisions based around your plans.
What Kind Of Fish Will You Find?
Once you know what kind of fish you want, you get to go out and make your choices based on your preferences. Grab your information about your tank and your preferences for a fish and head to the store to find your perfect fish. Following are a few breeds that you will likely see and be able to buy.
- Clown Loach: If you want a fish that will entertain you and your kids, then this the fish for you. They are fun and energetic, and they have a good sense of humor. In addition, they are beautifully colored and a delight to look at. They grow up to 12 inches, and they enjoy meaty food.
- Congo Tetra: These are great fish for newbies. Like the Clown Loach, they are also beautifully colored and fun to look at, but they do not grow as large coming in at about 5 inches. They enjoy hiding, so having many plants in the tank is essential to avoid stressing them out, and they need a tank that has at least 30 gallons of water for swimming.
- Elephant Nose: Would you like a fish that you can look at for hours? This fish will amaze you with their large trunk that they use to hunt their food (live food). They can also be fed flaked and frozen food, but their trunks make them perfect for hunting. These fish do not do well in crowded tanks, because they are territorial, and they can grow to 8 inches. They require a sandy bottom to their tank.
- Tiger Barb: These fish do not do well with other fish. They are one of the bullies that were mentioned earlier and they can nip at other fishes fins. They grow to about 3 inches, but need plenty of space to swim. They eat many types of food, but it is important that you feed them regularly to avoid aggression, so ensure that the main provider will be consistent in feeding.
See more: Tropical Fish Pet