Easiest Fish To Keep Alive – [Vet Explains Pets] (2024)

Fish make wonderful pets for both beginners and experienced pet owners. They are low maintenance, relaxing to watch, and can bring a sense of calmness to any environment. However, not all fish are created equal when it comes to ease of care. Some fish require specific water parameters, diets, and tank setups that can be challenging for beginners. If you're looking for the easiest fish to keep alive as pets, look no further. In this article, we will explore the top seven easiest fish to care for, along with trends, concerns, and expert advice on keeping them happy and healthy.

1. Betta Fish: Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are a popular choice for beginner fish keepers. They are hardy, colorful, and can survive in a wide range of water conditions. “Betta fish are great for beginners because they can thrive in a small tank with minimal maintenance,” says a professional aquarist. “Just make sure to provide them with a warm environment and regular water changes to keep them healthy.”

2. Guppies: Guppies are another easy-to-care-for fish that are perfect for beginners. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them a fun and attractive addition to any tank. “Guppies are known for their high breeding rates, so be prepared for a growing population if you have both males and females in the tank,” advises a professional fish breeder. “But as long as you provide them with a balanced diet and clean water, they will thrive.”

3. Goldfish: Goldfish are a classic choice for beginner fish keepers. They are hardy, adaptable, and can live for many years with proper care. “Goldfish are easy to care for, but they do require a larger tank than many people realize,” says a professional fish veterinarian. “They produce a lot of waste, so a good filtration system is essential to keep their water clean and healthy.”

4. Neon Tetras: Neon tetras are small, peaceful fish that are perfect for community tanks. They are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of water conditions. “Neon tetras are social fish that do best in groups of six or more,” advises a professional fish behaviorist. “Make sure to provide them with plenty of plants and hiding spots in the tank to help them feel secure.”

5. Corydoras Catfish: Corydoras catfish are bottom-dwelling fish that are excellent cleaners for your tank. They are easy to care for and can help keep the substrate clean by eating leftover food and debris. “Corydoras catfish are social creatures that do best in groups,” says a professional fish biologist. “They are peaceful fish that get along well with other species, making them a great addition to a community tank.”

6. White Cloud Mountain Minnows: White Cloud Mountain minnows are small, peaceful fish that are perfect for beginners. They are hardy, adaptable, and can thrive in a wide range of water conditions. “White Cloud Mountain minnows are great for beginners because they are low maintenance and easy to care for,” says a professional fish breeder. “They are also peaceful fish that do well in community tanks with other small, non-aggressive species.”

7. Swordtails: Swordtails are colorful fish that are easy to care for and can add a pop of color to your tank. They are peaceful, active swimmers that do well in community tanks. “Swordtails are livebearers, which means they give birth to live young instead of laying eggs,” advises a professional fish biologist. “They are relatively easy to breed, so be prepared for a growing population if you have both males and females in the tank.”

Trends in the world of fish keeping are constantly evolving, but there are a few key trends that have been gaining popularity in recent years:

1. Nano Tanks: Nano tanks, or small aquariums that typically hold less than 10 gallons of water, have become increasingly popular among fish keepers. These tanks are perfect for small spaces and can be a great way to start a fishkeeping hobby without a huge investment.

2. Natural Aquascaping: Aquascaping, or the art of designing and arranging aquatic plants and decorations in a tank, has become a popular trend in the fishkeeping world. Many hobbyists are creating stunning underwater landscapes that mimic natural habitats and provide a beautiful environment for their fish.

3. High-Tech Equipment: Advances in technology have led to the development of high-tech equipment for fish tanks, such as automated feeders, LED lighting systems, and smartphone-controlled water parameters. These tools can make fishkeeping easier and more convenient for busy pet owners.

4. Sustainable Fishkeeping: As awareness of environmental issues grows, many fish keepers are turning to sustainable practices in their hobby. This can include using eco-friendly tank decorations, supporting ethical fish breeders, and practicing responsible fishkeeping techniques to minimize waste and pollution.

5. Online Communities: The rise of social media has led to the creation of online communities for fish keepers to share tips, advice, and photos of their tanks. These communities can be a great resource for beginners looking for guidance and inspiration in their fishkeeping journey.

6. Species-specific Care: With increased knowledge and research in the field of fishkeeping, more pet owners are focusing on species-specific care for their fish. This means providing the proper diet, water parameters, and tank setup to meet the specific needs of each fish species.

7. Customized Tanks: Many fish keepers are opting for customized tanks that are tailored to their specific needs and preferences. This can include unique shapes, sizes, and features that make a tank stand out and provide the best possible environment for the fish.

Common concerns related to keeping fish alive as pets include:

1. Water Quality: Maintaining proper water quality is essential for the health and well-being of your fish. Regular water changes, testing for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels, and using a good filtration system can help keep your tank clean and healthy.

2. Overfeeding: Overfeeding your fish can lead to water quality issues, obesity, and other health problems. It's important to feed your fish a balanced diet and only give them as much food as they can eat in a few minutes.

3. Tank Size: Many fish species require a specific tank size to thrive. It's important to research the needs of your fish and provide them with a tank that is large enough to accommodate their size and swimming habits.

4. Temperature: Maintaining the proper water temperature is crucial for the health of your fish. Most tropical fish species prefer water temperatures between 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit, so investing in a good quality heater is essential.

5. Tank Mates: Not all fish species get along with each other, so it's important to choose compatible tank mates for your fish. Aggressive or territorial fish can harm or stress out more peaceful species, so do your research before adding new fish to your tank.

6. Disease Prevention: Fish are susceptible to a variety of diseases, such as ich, fin rot, and fungal infections. Regular water changes, quarantine procedures for new fish, and good hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of disease in your tank.

7. Water Parameters: Different fish species have specific water parameter requirements, such as pH levels, hardness, and alkalinity. It's important to research the needs of your fish and test your water regularly to ensure that it meets their specific requirements.

8. Tank Maintenance: Regular tank maintenance, such as cleaning the glass, changing the water, and pruning plants, is essential for the health of your fish and the overall appearance of your tank. Neglecting maintenance can lead to water quality issues and stress out your fish.

9. Lighting: Providing the proper lighting for your tank is important for the health of your fish and plants. Many fish species have specific lighting requirements, so it's important to choose the right type of lighting for your setup.

10. Decorations: Tank decorations, such as rocks, plants, and driftwood, can provide hiding spots and naturalistic environments for your fish. It's important to choose decorations that are safe for your fish and won't harm them.

11. Acclimation: When introducing new fish to your tank, it's important to acclimate them slowly to prevent stress and shock. Floating the bag in your tank and gradually adding tank water to the bag can help your fish adjust to their new environment.

12. Tank Cycling: Before adding fish to a new tank, it's important to cycle the tank to establish beneficial bacteria that will help break down waste and maintain water quality. Cycling can take several weeks, so be patient and test your water regularly during this process.

13. Emergency Preparedness: It's important to have a plan in place for emergencies, such as power outages, equipment failures, or disease outbreaks. Having backup equipment, medications, and a plan for temporary housing can help you respond quickly and effectively in an emergency situation.

14. Research: The most important thing you can do to ensure the health and well-being of your fish is to research their specific needs and requirements. Understanding the biology, behavior, and care requirements of your fish species will help you provide the best possible environment for them to thrive.