If you dream of a goldfish every night, it's time to buy an aquarium. An important part of this difficult task is choosing the future new inhabitants. For a love of poetry, you could, of course, buy the fish celebrated by Pushkin. But if you're not skilled in aquaristics, don't do it. Because, like any goddess, this Mistress of the Sea has regal airs, and keeping her at home is very difficult.
But what fish should a beginner aquarist get? The most low-maintenance ones, of course. There are now plenty of low-maintenance fish available. And you can choose from beautifully colored species in a variety of sizes, so even a beginner's aquarium will look stylish and vibrant.
For example, danios could be a good addition to your new aquarium. These are very peaceful and active small to medium-sized fish that lead a schooling lifestyle. However, keep in mind that the aquarium should be covered with a fairly tight glass cover, as they are known for their jumping abilities. Furthermore, the danio's “home” should be well-lit and spacious. Aeration is also essential, as these fish love clear, oxygen-rich water. It's best to choose a large, elongated aquarium with plants and ample swimming space. Danios are undemanding when it comes to food, and will happily eat both dry and live food. These fish are also undemanding regarding water chemistry. The only requirement is fresh water.
Barbs make a beautiful addition to any aquarium. These fish are striking in their diversity; their genus comprises over 200 species, including the spotted barb, the five-striped barb, the clown barb, the lateristriga barb, the Schubert's barb, the African barb, the scarlet barb, the black barb, and the funtunio barb. Barbs are peaceful and very active. However, they are not the best tankmates for fish with filiform fins (such as angelfish), as they may pluck their fins. The same fate can befall slow-moving fish with veil-finned fish. It's better to offer them spotted catfish as tankmates. Barbs are easy to care for. Just replace traditional algae with floating algae.
The spotted catfish , while not particularly beautiful, can survive even in the dirtiest water due to its unique breathing habits, justifying its status as “unpretentious.” It is very friendly and easily coexists with other fish species. It spends most of its time at the bottom of the aquarium, digging for food. However, it is important to remember that this catfish requires a special food for bottom-dwelling fish.
Unlike other aquarium fish, gouramis can boast that they absorb not only oxygen dissolved in the water but also oxygen from the air. They are very active and curious, and are very tolerant of other aquarium species.
Swordtails make good tankmates because they share peaceful and calm traits. They are omnivorous. They can live in small aquariums, but it's better if they have room to maneuver. Their “home” should include plants, including some floating ones. And be sure to cover the top of the aquarium to prevent the swordtails from jumping out.
The crown for “most low-maintenance” goes to the guppy . This is the most common aquarium fish, attracting hobbyists with its undemanding nature. Interestingly, guppies were the first aquarium fish to fly in space, experiencing zero gravity. Furthermore, they grow better in artificial conditions than in natural waters. If you keep several pairs of guppies, you'll soon have several times the number of babies, as they are livebearers. If you don't want offspring, don't remove the pregnant female from the main aquarium. The fry will serve as excellent food for other fish. Male guppies come in a variety of colors, while females are nondescript. They are the most low-maintenance, thrive in any water, tolerate low temperatures well, and can fast for several days.
Armed with this information, you can confidently head to the pet store and buy your new fish. May your fish bring you only positive emotions, and may setting up your aquarium be nothing but pleasant hassle. Good luck!
