What Are Good Fish To Have As Pets: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing the right fish can transform your aquarium from a simple display into a vibrant, engaging underwater world, and understanding what are good fish to have as pets is the first step. At PETS.EDU.VN, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate the diverse world of aquarium keeping, ensuring you find the perfect aquatic companions. Selecting appropriate aquarium inhabitants involves considering temperament, tank size, care requirements, and compatibility. With careful planning, you can create a thriving aquatic ecosystem that brings joy and relaxation to your home.

1. Angelfish: The Graceful Gliders

Angelfish, scientifically known as Pterophyllum scalare, are a favorite among aquarists for their striking appearance and elegant movements. These fish, native to the Amazon River basin, can grow to a considerable size, reaching up to 6 inches in diameter and over a foot in height, fins included.

Why Angelfish Make Great Pets:

Personality: Angelfish are known for their interactive behavior. They often approach the front of the tank to greet their keepers.
Appearance: Their unique shape and coloration add a touch of elegance to any aquarium.
Social Behavior: They interact with each other, providing entertainment for observers.

Angelfish Care Tips:

Tank Size: A minimum of 30 gallons is recommended for a pair of angelfish.
Water Parameters: Maintain a temperature between 78-84°F, pH level of 6.0-7.0, and ensure the water is well-filtered.
Diet: Offer a varied diet including flake food, frozen foods like bloodworms, and small crustaceans.

Many aquarists appreciate that angelfish are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. PETS.EDU.VN offers extensive resources on angelfish care, including detailed guides on tank setup, feeding schedules, and disease prevention.

2. Fancy Guppies: The Colorful Swimmers

Fancy Guppies (Poecilia sp.) are a classic choice for aquarium enthusiasts, known for their vibrant colors and active nature. These small fish have been selectively bred for over a century, resulting in a wide variety of fin shapes and color patterns.

Why Fancy Guppies Make Great Pets:

Variety: With numerous strains available, you can create a visually stunning aquarium.
Activity: Guppies are constantly swimming, adding life and movement to the tank.
Gregarious Nature: They thrive in groups, creating a lively social environment.

Guppy Care Tips:

Tank Size: A 10-gallon tank is sufficient for a small group of guppies.
Water Parameters: Keep the temperature between 72-78°F and the pH level around 6.8-7.8.
Diet: Feed them high-quality flake food supplemented with live or frozen treats.

Guppies are relatively easy to breed, which can be both a pro and a con. At PETS.EDU.VN, we provide detailed information on managing guppy populations and ensuring the health of your fish.

3. Mollies: Hardy and Adaptable

Mollies (Poecilia sp.), closely related to guppies, are another excellent choice for beginner aquarists. Black mollies, in particular, are popular due to their striking appearance and ease of care.

Why Mollies Make Great Pets:

Adaptability: Mollies can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.
Livebearers: The females give birth to live young, which are miniature versions of the adults.
Herbivorous Nature: They help control algae growth in the aquarium.

Mollies Care Tips:

Tank Size: A 20-gallon tank is recommended for a small group of mollies.
Water Parameters: Maintain a temperature between 75-80°F and a pH level of 7.0-8.0.
Diet: Offer a diet rich in plant-based foods, such as algae wafers and blanched vegetables.

Mollies are active and social fish that add a dynamic element to any aquarium. Visit PETS.EDU.VN for more information on molly care and breeding.

4. Tiger Barbs: Energetic and Engaging

Tiger Barbs (Puntigrus tetrazona) are known for their playful and energetic behavior. These small fish are active swimmers that add a lot of movement to the aquarium.

Why Tiger Barbs Make Great Pets:

Active Swimmers: They are constantly on the move, providing visual interest.
Social Interaction: They do best in small groups, creating a lively social dynamic.
Bold Personality: They often come to the front of the tank to greet their keepers.

Tiger Barb Care Tips:

Tank Size: A 30-gallon tank is suitable for a group of 6-8 tiger barbs.
Water Parameters: Keep the temperature between 74-79°F and the pH level around 6.0-7.0.
Diet: Feed them a varied diet including flake food, live, and frozen foods.

Tiger barbs can sometimes nip the fins of slower-moving fish, so it’s important to choose tank mates carefully. PETS.EDU.VN offers guidance on selecting compatible species and managing tiger barb behavior.

5. Oscars: Intelligent and Interactive

Oscars (Astronotus ocellatus) are among the most intelligent and interactive aquarium fish. These large cichlids are known for their ability to recognize their keepers and even perform simple tricks.

Why Oscars Make Great Pets:

Intelligence: Oscars can learn to recognize their keepers and respond to their presence.
Personality: They exhibit a range of behaviors that can be interpreted as emotions.
Interactive: They often greet their keepers and can even “sulk” when they are not around.

Oscar Care Tips:

Tank Size: A minimum of 75 gallons is required for a single Oscar.
Water Parameters: Maintain a temperature between 74-86°F and a pH level of 6.0-7.5.
Diet: Feed them a balanced diet of high-quality pellets and frozen foods.

Oscars require a significant commitment due to their size and dietary needs. PETS.EDU.VN provides detailed information on Oscar care, including tank setup, feeding strategies, and disease prevention.

6. Ocellaris Clownfish: The Marine Marvels

Ocellaris Clownfish (Amphiprion ocellaris), also known as “Nemo” after the popular movie, are the most widely kept marine species. These colorful fish are a favorite among saltwater aquarium enthusiasts.

Why Ocellaris Clownfish Make Great Pets:

Recognizable: Their distinctive orange and white stripes make them instantly recognizable.
Captive Bred: Most clownfish are now captive-raised, making them more readily available.
Interactive: They often form symbiotic relationships with anemones, providing a fascinating display.

Clownfish Care Tips:

Tank Size: A 20-gallon tank is suitable for a pair of clownfish.
Water Parameters: Maintain a temperature between 72-78°F, a salinity level of 1.020-1.026, and a pH level of 8.1-8.4.
Diet: Feed them a varied diet of marine flake food, frozen foods, and live foods.

Keeping clownfish requires a specialized saltwater aquarium setup. PETS.EDU.VN offers resources on saltwater aquarium care, including detailed guides on water chemistry, equipment selection, and species compatibility.

7. Convict Cichlids: Small but Mighty

Convict Cichlids (Amatitlania nigrofasciata) are small but assertive fish that pack a lot of personality into a small package. These cichlids are known for their strong territorial instincts and parental care.

Why Convict Cichlids Make Great Pets:

Interesting Behavior: They exhibit a range of behaviors, including territorial defense and parental care.
Easy to Breed: They breed readily in the aquarium, providing an opportunity to observe their breeding behavior.
Personality: Despite their small size, they have a lot of attitude and will defend their territory.

Convict Cichlid Care Tips:

Tank Size: A 20-gallon tank is suitable for a pair of convict cichlids.
Water Parameters: Maintain a temperature between 72-82°F and a pH level of 6.5-7.5.
Diet: Feed them a varied diet of cichlid pellets, frozen foods, and live foods.

Convict cichlids can be aggressive, so it’s important to choose tank mates carefully. PETS.EDU.VN provides information on managing convict cichlid behavior and selecting compatible species.

8. Mbuna Cichlids: Colorful Community Fish

Mbuna Cichlids are a diverse group of cichlids from Lake Malawi in eastern Africa. These fish are known for their vibrant colors and active swimming behavior.

Why Mbuna Cichlids Make Great Pets:

Variety of Colors: They come in a wide range of colors and patterns, creating a visually stunning aquarium.
Active Swimmers: They are constantly on the move, adding life and movement to the tank.
Personality: They have distinct personalities and interact with each other, providing entertainment for observers.

Mbuna Cichlid Care Tips:

Tank Size: A 55-gallon tank is recommended for a community of Mbuna cichlids.
Water Parameters: Maintain a temperature between 76-82°F and a pH level of 7.8-8.6.
Diet: Feed them a diet rich in plant-based foods, such as algae wafers and spirulina flakes.

Mbuna cichlids are best kept with other African cichlids due to their specific water parameter requirements and aggressive behavior. PETS.EDU.VN offers guidance on setting up an African cichlid aquarium and selecting compatible species.

9. Fancy Goldfish: Classic and Charming

Fancy Goldfish (Carassias auratus) are a classic choice for aquarium enthusiasts, known for their attractive appearance and endearing personality. These fish have been selectively bred for many years, resulting in a variety of unique body shapes and colors.

Why Fancy Goldfish Make Great Pets:

Attractive: They come in a variety of colors and body shapes, making them visually appealing.
Easy to Care For: They are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginners.
Endearing Personality: They often interact with their owners and can be quite charming.

Fancy Goldfish Care Tips:

Tank Size: A 20-gallon tank is recommended for a single fancy goldfish.
Water Parameters: Maintain a temperature between 68-74°F and a pH level of 6.5-7.5.
Diet: Feed them a varied diet of goldfish flakes, pellets, and blanched vegetables.

Goldfish can grow quite large, so it’s important to provide them with a spacious aquarium. PETS.EDU.VN offers information on goldfish care, including tank setup, feeding strategies, and disease prevention.

10. Betta Fish: The Colorful Solitary

Betta Fish (Betta splendens), also known as Siamese Fighting Fish, are among the most popular aquarium fish. These colorful fish are known for their elaborate fins and solitary nature.

Why Betta Fish Make Great Pets:

Colorful: They come in a wide variety of colors and fin shapes, making them visually stunning.
Solitary: They can be kept alone in a small aquarium, making them suitable for small spaces.
Personality: They have distinct personalities and can be quite interactive with their keepers.

Betta Fish Care Tips:

Tank Size: A 5-gallon tank is recommended for a single betta fish.
Water Parameters: Maintain a temperature between 78-82°F and a pH level of 6.5-7.5.
Diet: Feed them a diet of betta pellets, frozen foods, and live foods.

Betta fish are territorial and should not be kept with other bettas or fish with similar fin shapes. PETS.EDU.VN offers detailed information on betta care, including tank setup, feeding strategies, and disease prevention.

Choosing the right fish for your aquarium can be a rewarding experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced aquarist, PETS.EDU.VN is here to provide you with the information and resources you need to create a thriving aquatic ecosystem.

Understanding Fish Behavior and Compatibility

When considering what are good fish to have as pets, it’s crucial to understand fish behavior and compatibility. Different species have different temperaments and social needs, which can significantly impact the health and harmony of your aquarium.

Aggression Levels

Some fish, like bettas and convict cichlids, are known for their territorial and aggressive behavior. These fish are best kept alone or with carefully selected tank mates that can tolerate their assertiveness.

Schooling Behavior

Many fish, such as tiger barbs and neon tetras, thrive in schools. Keeping these fish in groups of six or more helps them feel secure and reduces stress.

Compatibility Chart

Fish Species	Temperament	Minimum Tank Size	Compatible Tank Mates
Angelfish	Peaceful	30 gallons	Tetras, Corydoras Catfish, Gouramis
Fancy Guppies	Peaceful	10 gallons	Other Guppies, Small Tetras, Corydoras Catfish
Mollies	Peaceful	20 gallons	Other Mollies, Platies, Swordtails
Tiger Barbs	Semi-Aggressive	30 gallons	Other Tiger Barbs, Larger Barbs, Danios
Oscars	Aggressive	75 gallons	Other Large Cichlids, Plecos
Ocellaris Clownfish	Peaceful	20 gallons	Anemones, Other Clownfish, Gobies
Convict Cichlids	Aggressive	20 gallons	Other Convict Cichlids, Large Cichlids
Mbuna Cichlids	Aggressive	55 gallons	Other Mbuna Cichlids
Fancy Goldfish	Peaceful	20 gallons	Other Goldfish
Betta Fish	Aggressive	5 gallons	Snails, Shrimp (with caution)

Quarantine Procedures

Before introducing any new fish to your aquarium, it’s essential to quarantine them for 2-4 weeks. This allows you to observe them for any signs of disease and prevent the spread of infection to your established fish.

Maintaining a Healthy Aquarium Environment

Creating and maintaining a healthy aquarium environment is essential for the well-being of your fish. This involves regular water changes, proper filtration, and maintaining appropriate water parameters.

Water Changes

Regular water changes help remove accumulated waste and maintain water quality. A general rule of thumb is to change 25% of the water every 2-4 weeks.

Filtration

A good filtration system is crucial for removing debris, ammonia, and other harmful substances from the water. There are three main types of filtration: mechanical, chemical, and biological.

Water Parameters

Maintaining appropriate water parameters, such as temperature, pH, and ammonia levels, is essential for the health of your fish. Regular testing with a test kit can help you monitor these parameters and make adjustments as needed.

Feeding Your Fish a Balanced Diet

Providing your fish with a balanced diet is essential for their health and well-being. Different species have different dietary needs, so it’s important to research the specific requirements of your fish.

Types of Food

Flake Food: A convenient and readily available option for most fish.
Pellets: A good option for larger fish and those that feed at the bottom of the tank.
Frozen Foods: A nutritious option that can provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Live Foods: A natural option that can stimulate the hunting instincts of your fish.

Feeding Schedule

A general rule of thumb is to feed your fish 1-2 times per day, providing only as much food as they can consume in 2-3 minutes.

Dietary Needs Chart

Fish Species	Primary Diet	Supplemental Foods
Angelfish	Flake Food	Frozen Bloodworms, Brine Shrimp
Fancy Guppies	Flake Food	Live or Frozen Treats
Mollies	Herbivore Pellets	Algae Wafers, Blanched Vegetables
Tiger Barbs	Flake Food	Live or Frozen Foods
Oscars	Cichlid Pellets	Frozen Foods, Live Foods
Ocellaris Clownfish	Marine Flake Food	Frozen Foods, Live Foods
Convict Cichlids	Cichlid Pellets	Frozen Foods, Live Foods
Mbuna Cichlids	Herbivore Pellets	Algae Wafers, Spirulina Flakes
Fancy Goldfish	Goldfish Flakes	Blanched Vegetables, Peas
Betta Fish	Betta Pellets	Frozen Bloodworms, Brine Shrimp

Common Fish Diseases and Prevention

Like all pets, fish are susceptible to a variety of diseases. Recognizing the symptoms of common fish diseases and taking steps to prevent them is essential for maintaining a healthy aquarium.

Common Diseases

Ich (White Spot Disease): Characterized by small white spots on the body and fins.
Fin Rot: Characterized by frayed or disintegrating fins.
Swim Bladder Disease: Characterized by difficulty swimming or maintaining buoyancy.

Prevention

Quarantine New Fish: Quarantine new fish for 2-4 weeks before introducing them to your established aquarium.
Maintain Water Quality: Regular water changes and proper filtration can help prevent disease outbreaks.
Provide a Balanced Diet: A balanced diet can help boost the immune system of your fish and make them more resistant to disease.

Treatment

If you suspect that your fish are sick, it’s important to take action quickly. Consult with a veterinarian or experienced aquarist to determine the best course of treatment.

Advanced Aquarium Keeping Techniques

For experienced aquarists looking to take their hobby to the next level, there are a variety of advanced techniques that can be used to create even more stunning and thriving aquariums.

Planted Aquariums

Planted aquariums are a beautiful and natural way to enhance your aquarium. Live plants can help improve water quality, provide shelter for your fish, and create a more natural environment.

Aquascaping

Aquascaping is the art of arranging rocks, driftwood, and plants in an aesthetically pleasing manner. A well-aquascaped aquarium can be a stunning centerpiece in any home.

Breeding Fish

Breeding fish can be a rewarding experience that allows you to observe the natural behaviors of your fish. However, it’s important to research the specific breeding requirements of your fish before attempting to breed them.

The Joy of Fish Keeping

Keeping fish can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced aquarist, there is always something new to learn. With proper care and attention, your fish can provide you with years of enjoyment.

Benefits of Fish Keeping

Stress Relief: Watching fish swim can be a relaxing and therapeutic experience.
Educational Value: Fish keeping can be a great way to learn about aquatic ecosystems and animal behavior.
Aesthetic Appeal: A well-maintained aquarium can be a beautiful addition to any home.

Community Involvement

There are many online forums and local aquarium clubs where you can connect with other fish keepers and share your experiences.

PETS.EDU.VN: Your Partner in Fish Keeping

At PETS.EDU.VN, we are dedicated to providing you with the information and resources you need to create a thriving aquarium. Our website features detailed care guides, articles, and forums where you can connect with other fish keepers.

Resources Available

Care Guides: Detailed care guides for a wide variety of fish species.
Articles: Articles on topics such as tank setup, water chemistry, and disease prevention.
Forums: A forum where you can connect with other fish keepers and ask questions.
Expert Advice: Access to expert advice from experienced aquarists and veterinarians.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us:

Address: 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States
WhatsApp: +1 555-987-6543
Website: PETS.EDU.VN

We are here to help you create a thriving aquarium and enjoy the many benefits of fish keeping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Good Pet Fish

Choosing what are good fish to have as pets can be daunting. Here are some frequently asked questions to guide you:

What is the easiest fish to take care of for a beginner?

Guppies and Mollies are often recommended due to their hardiness and adaptability.
How often should I feed my fish?

Generally, once or twice a day, providing only as much food as they can consume in 2-3 minutes.
What size tank do I need for [insert fish species]?

Tank size varies depending on the species. Consult a care guide for specific recommendations.
How do I know if my fish are sick?

Signs of illness can include changes in behavior, loss of appetite, and visible symptoms like white spots or fin rot.
What are the ideal water parameters for a freshwater aquarium?

Ideal parameters vary by species but generally include a temperature of 72-82°F and a pH of 6.5-7.5.
How often should I change the water in my aquarium?

A general rule is to change 25% of the water every 2-4 weeks.
Can I keep [insert fish species] with [another fish species]?

Compatibility depends on the temperament and social needs of the fish. Research species compatibility before introducing new fish.
What is the best type of filter for my aquarium?

The best type of filter depends on the size and type of aquarium. Options include sponge filters, hang-on-back filters, and canister filters.
How do I cycle a new aquarium?

Cycling involves establishing beneficial bacteria in the tank to convert harmful ammonia and nitrites into less toxic nitrates.
Where can I find more information about caring for fish?

pets.edu.vn offers a wealth of information, including care guides, articles, and forums.

By addressing these questions and seeking reliable information, you can confidently choose the right fish and create a thriving aquarium.