What To Consider When Choosing Fish For A Freshwater Aquarium

Keeping a freshwater aquarium is a fun and enjoyable hobby. Most beginners, in fact, most aquarium hobbyists, maintain freshwater fish aquariums. A freshwater fish tank is considerably easier to manage than a saltwater fish tank, which is one of the reasons why they are so popular. However, it is important to keep in mind that maintaining a thriving aquarium of freshwater fish takes much more than just merely feeding them on a regular basis. There are other essential factors to consider.  

When starting a freshwater aquarium, it is important to know where to start and what fish you will need. Before adding fish to an aquarium, you first need to set up the proper environment. In addition to the tank, you’ll want to ensure that the aquarium lighting, fish tank cleaning equipment, and filtration system are all in place. Once you have established the right environment, you can begin adding fish.

What To Consider When Choosing Fish For A Freshwater Aquarium

Whether you are starting a new aquarium or adding more fish to an existing tank environment, there are some important things that need to be considered, or your tank may become a harmful environment. Luckily, we compiled a few factors to consider when adding fish to your tank.

The Size of Aquarium

Many freshwater fish are social and will do better in a group. When considering fish to add to your aquarium, consider the adult size of the fish you are interested in and how many are needed to establish a comfortable group. Larger fish that need multiple companions will require a larger tank to stay healthy, while smaller fish can be better accommodated in a smaller tank. Don’t forget to keep in mind the space needed for aquarium decorations, plants, and other equipment.

The Personalities of the Fish

The personalities of freshwater fish can vary — some are peaceful while others are aggressive. Some fish are extremely active and need an open space for swimming, and some prefer plenty of nooks and spaces for hiding. You want to add fish to your aquarium that have compatible personalities. This will not only make aquarium care easier, but it will keep your fish healthy and happy.

Tank Care

Even the freshwater fish that are easiest to care for have specific needs for water composition and temperature, plant preferences, and cleanliness. Opt for fish with similar needs and that that can endure similar conditions to make the tank easier to care for and keep all the fish happy and healthy.

Before adding freshwater fish to your aquarium, it is important that you do your research. Understanding the different needs of the fish you add to your tank will make it easier to keep them happy and healthy. Of course, you can always go to your nearest aquarium store for professional recommendations on the best fish to add to ensure a thriving freshwater aquarium.

If you are looking for an aquarium store in Edmonton, head to Aquarium Illusions! We have a variety of saltwater fish for your tank. Our aquarium experts can help you find what you need to ensure your fish tank is healthy and that your fish are happy! For more information, contact us!