Blog, Freshwater Fish
Top 10 Aquarium Fish for Beginners
Dec
Top 10 Best Aquarium Fish for Beginners
Picture this: your first aquarium is set up, water is glistening under the lights, and you’re daydreaming about colourful fish bringing your tank to life. But as you start shopping for fish, a question pops up: which ones should you pick? It’s not just about choosing pretty ones; some species are more beginner-friendly than others.
Don’t stress—I’ve got your back. Together, we’ll explore ten of the best aquarium fish for beginners, taking into account their care requirements, personalities, and compatibility with tank mates. By the end, you’ll know exactly which fish to welcome into your very first underwater world.
1. Betta Fish (Siamese Fighting Fish)
The betta is a showstopper, known for its flowing fins and vivid colours. Bettas are hardy, low-maintenance, and thrive in smaller tanks. However, bettas are solitary fish—males, in particular, can be highly territorial. They’re best kept alone unless you’re an experienced aquarist who understands how to create a peaceful community setup. There are over 20 types of Betta with varying colours and fin types. There is the
- Crowntail Betta
- Combtail Betta
- Delta Tail Betta
- Double Tail Betta
- Elephant Ear Betta
- Halfmoon Betta
- Half Sun Betta
- Plakat Bettas (these are my favourite!)
- Rose Tail Betta
- Roundtail Betta
- Spade Tail Betta
- Veiltail betta
- Over Halfmoon/Super Delta Tail
- Feather Tail
- Halfmoon Plakat
That is a lot, isn’t it?! The primary reason lies in selective breeding. Breeders have spent centuries enhancing specific traits, such as vibrant colours, unique patterns, and dramatic fin shapes. Wild Bettas already display a range of natural variations, and breeders amplified these traits, giving rise to many of the striking types we see today.
Crossbreeding has also played a significant role. By combining different Betta strains, breeders create hybrids that showcase new and exciting features. These efforts often result in variations like Koi Bettas or marbled patterns, which never existed naturally in the wild. Occasionally, random genetic mutations add to the diversity, as breeders isolate these mutations and develop them into entirely new Betta lines.
The incredible variety of Bettas is a testament to human creativity and our love for these remarkable fish. They are truly living works of art! Check out our current Betta collection here.
2. Tetras
Tetras are tiny but mighty when it comes to adding charm to your tank. Their shimmering iridescent bodies are best admired in schools of six or more. Over the years, there have been so many tetra variations to suit almost all types of aquarium set-ups. They are super peaceful and thrive in well-planted tanks with stable water conditions. Just remember, tetras are happiest when they can socialise with their kind—think of them as party animals that hate being alone!
Do you want to know why there are so many tetra variations to choose from? Tetras belong to the Characidae family, which includes over 1,000 species spread across South America, Africa, and other regions. This natural diversity is due to their wide geographic distribution, where different environments and ecological pressures have led to unique adaptations. For example, some species evolved to blend into darker, tannin-rich waters, while others developed bright colours to stand out in clear streams or to aid in shoaling. Fascinating, isn’t it? You can take a sneak peek of our current Tetra collection here.
3. Guppies
Guppies are the ultimate beginner fish: colourful, lively, and easy to care for. You would be amazed how many beautiful variations there are today. The primary reason is their incredible genetic potential. Guppies are naturally diverse, with wild populations displaying variations in colour, fin shape, and pattern. This diversity, combined with their short generation times and ease of breeding, makes guppies a perfect canvas for creating new variations. Crossbreeding guppies with specific traits can create hybrids that blend the best features of their parent fish. For example, many fancy guppies owe their elaborate tails or vibrant colour schemes to carefully planned breeding programs that mix lineages from different regions or strains.
Guppies thrive in groups, but they don’t require large schools like some other species. Three to five guppies in a small to medium-sized tank will keep things harmonious. Bonus: guppies are prolific breeders, so if you’re up for the challenge, you might see tiny fry swimming around in no time. Note that they are not maternal or paternal at all and will eat their own young. Best chances of survival is to have a well-planted tank so the babies can hide as they grow. Once they grow to a decent size, they will join the guppy colony. See our Guppy collection here.
4. Platies
Platies are peaceful, adaptable, and great beginner fish! They come in a stunning array of colours and patterns, ranging from bright oranges and reds to blues, yellows, and even bicolour or speckled varieties. Whether you prefer the vibrant shades of a Sunset Platy or the unique black-and-gold of a Mickey Mouse Platy, there’s a platy for every aesthetic.
One of the biggest appeals of platies is their hardiness. They are adaptable to a wide range of water conditions, making them perfect for beginners or anyone setting up a community tank. Platies tolerate changes in pH and temperature better than many other fish, making them a forgiving species for new aquarists.
They’re social fish that thrive in groups of three or more, and they’re forgiving when it comes to water conditions. Platies also get along well in community tanks, especially those with live plants. View our Platies here.
5. Zebra Danios
Zebra danios are like the playful, energetic friends every tank needs. These striped swimmers are happiest in schools of six or more and love darting around the tank. Their energetic and playful nature adds life to any aquarium. Watching their activity can be entertaining and a source of constant movement in your setup. Plus, they’re incredibly hardy, tolerating a range of water conditions. Zebra danios are also small in size, reaching just about 4–5 cm when fully grown so they are pretty amazing in smaller tank setups. Check out out fast-swimming Danios here.
Danios & Rasboras
6. Corydoras Catfish
Ok this is one of my favourite fish! Corydoras, or “Cory cats,” are peaceful bottom dwellers that double as the tank’s cleanup crew. One of the coolest things about them is their social and playful nature. They thrive in groups, often seen exploring the bottom of the tank together like a team of tiny adventurers. Watching them sift through the substrate or dash to the surface like a rocket ship for a quick gulp of air is both entertaining and endearing
These adorable scavengers are best kept in groups of four to six, as they’re highly social. Watching a group of Corydoras forage together is a joy, and they’ll happily munch on any leftover food that sinks to the bottom.
A cool fact about Corydoras is that they can breathe atmospheric air! Corys have a modified intestinal lining that allows them to absorb oxygen from air,and that is why you’ll occasionally see them dart to the surface for a quick gulp. This adaptation helps them survive in low-oxygen environments in the wild, like muddy or stagnant waters of Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, and Argentina. Watching this unique behaviour in your tank is both fascinating and a testament to their incredible adaptability! Check out our wide range of Corydoras.
7. Mollies
Mollies are versatile fish that adapt well to various environments. They’re social but don’t need large schools to feel at ease—three to four mollies will be comfortable in most beginner tanks. They are also incredibly adaptable. They can thrive in a range of water conditions, including freshwater, brackish, and even marine environments, as long as the transitions are made gradually. That is so wild, isn’t it? This adaptability makes them forgiving for beginners who might still be fine-tuning their tank setup.Like guppies, mollies are prolific breeders, so plan accordingly if you don’t want an influx of baby fish! See our full Molly Collection here.
8. Cherry Barbs
Cherry barbs are a splash of orange or red in any tank! They are found in slow-moving streams and rivers in Sri Lanka, where water conditions can fluctuate. This natural habitat has equipped them to tolerate changes in temperature, pH, and water hardness. In the wild, they often inhabit areas with moderate vegetation and varying water quality, which has made them adaptable to diverse aquarium setups.
Beware though, they can be cheekily nippy, especially if kept in small groups. To curb this behaviour,, aim for a school of six or more. Larger groups spread out their energy and help them feel secure, which reduces aggression. However, avoid pairing cherry barbs with fish that have long, flowing fins (like bettas or angelfish), as those fins can be too tempting for barbs to resist. This behaviour is rooted in their natural instincts, social dynamics, and environmental preferences so don’t blame them, blame their genetic instincts! See our full collection of Barbs here.
9. Rasboras
Elegant and incredibly peaceful, rasboras are schooling fish that thrive in groups of six or more. Their iridescent colour adds a level of sophistication to any tank. They’re great for community setups, especially with other peaceful fish. Harlequins prefer stable water conditions and are hardy enough for beginner care. With shimmering colours, such as the striking orange and black of Harlequin Rasboras or the iridescent hues of Galaxy Rasboras, they bring vibrant life to your aquarium without requiring advanced care. See our truly amazing rasboras here.
10. Bristlenose Catfish
If algae control is on your mind, look no further than the bristlenose pleco. Note though that their constant grazing behaviour can help reduce algae buildup, especially in the early stages of growth. If you have a lot of algae, you can’t rely on your bristlenose to solve it on its own! Email us if you have an algae problem.
Anyway, back to this hardy bottom dwellers. . . they are solitary by nature, so you only need one for most tanks. They’re nocturnal, so give them plenty of hiding spots like driftwood and caves to keep them happy and secure. In summary, bristlenose plecos are hardy, helpful, and easy to care for, making them a perfect starter fish for anyone new to the hobby. They bring utility and personality to your tank while being low-stress companions.
See the family of these nocturnal wonders here.
Don’t Forget Tank Size
Before picking your fish, consider your tank size carefully. Some species, like bettas or guppies, are perfect for smaller tanks, while schooling fish like tetras, barbs, and danios need more space to thrive. Overcrowding not only stresses your fish but also affects water quality. Always research the adult size of your chosen fish to ensure they’ll have enough space as they grow.
The Balancing Act: Top, Mid, and Bottom Dwellers
Creating a balanced tank isn’t just about choosing pretty fish—it’s about distributing activity across the top, middle, and bottom of your aquarium. This ensures your tank feels dynamic and minimizes territorial disputes.
- Top-Level Dwellers: Bettas and guppies are classic top-level swimmers. They bring energy to the surface and are often the first fish you’ll see when you approach the tank.
- Mid-Level Swimmers: Neon tetras, cherry barbs, and harlequin rasboras fill the middle level with colour and movement. These schooling fish are the heart of a vibrant community tank.
- Bottom Dwellers: Corydoras catfish and bristlenose plecos round out the bottom level, scavenging for food and keeping the substrate clean.
A well-balanced tank with activity across all levels feels alive and harmonious. Watching your fish interact in their different zones is like watching a perfectly choreographed dance—everyone plays their part.
Add Some Aquarium Plants
After choosing your fish, consider adding some live aquarium plants. Plants aren’t just decorative—they provide numerous benefits to your tank and its inhabitants.
- Oxygenation: Live plants produce oxygen during the day, improving water quality for your fish.
- Natural Filtration: Plants absorb harmful nitrates, acting as an additional layer of filtration.
- Shelter and Comfort: Fish, especially shy ones, love hiding among plants. This helps reduce stress and promotes natural behaviours.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A lushly planted tank creates a stunning, natural environment that both you and your fish will enjoy.
Beginner-friendly plants like Java fern, Anubias, Amazon swords, and Java moss are hardy and require minimal care. Adding these to your tank will make your aquatic ecosystem healthier and more vibrant.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your first aquarium fish is exciting, but remember—it’s not just about picking the most gorgeous ones. Think about your tank size, the balance of top, mid, and bottom dwellers, and how plants can help give your aquatic pets feelings of a natural environment.
My species recommendations are are hardy and beginner-friendly, but maintaining proper water parameters is essential for their health and well-being. Your beginner fish will definitely thrive in clean, well-oxygenated water with stable conditions. Regular water changes are crucial to prevent ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate buildup, which can stress or harm your fish. Even beginner fish can suffer in poor water conditions,(although they will be more forgiving) so investing in a reliable water testing kit and performing routine tank maintenance will ensure your fish are in tip-top condition.
With a little planning, your aquarium will soon be a thriving, beautiful underwater world filled with happy, healthy fish. And if you ever need help, I’m just a question away. Drop in to our store in Kingswood, email us or give me a call. I am here.
Happy fishkeeping, fish lovers.
