Small freshwater fish are stars of the aquarium world, not only for their cuteness but also for their ease of care in small tanks. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aquarist, these fish will add life and color to your aquarium. This article details 12 of the best small freshwater fish and how to properly care for them.
1. Why choose small freshwater fish?
The reasons for choosing small freshwater fish are simple: they are attractive, easy to keep, and adaptable. Here are the main reasons for choosing them:
Small size : It does not require a large aquarium and can live well in a mini aquarium of 10 to 20 liters.
A wide variety : from the vibrant colors of guppies to the elegance of neon tetras, each has its own unique charm.
Easy to care for : They have low requirements for water quality and environment, making them very suitable for beginners.
Flexible pairing : Species with a mild temperament are suitable for schooling, while species with a strong personality can also be kept alone.
If you are trying to keep fish for the first time, small freshwater fish are an excellent starting point!
2. 12 Best Small Freshwater Fish Recommendations
1. Clown Zebra Fish (Harlequin Rasboras)
Clown zebrafish are beloved for their orange-red bodies and black triangular tail patterns, and they swim with elegance and grace.
Size : Approximately 4-5 cm.
Personality : Gentle, suited for group activities.
Care recommendations : It is recommended to keep at least 6 fish. Aquatic plants and soft lighting can be arranged in the aquarium.
2. Betta Fish
Siamese fighting fish are known for their stunning colors and gorgeous tail fins, but male Siamese fighting fish are not suitable for keeping with other fish.
Size : 6-8 cm.
Temperament : Male betta fish are aggressive and it is recommended to keep them alone.
Care advice : Provide shelter such as aquatic plants and decorations to make the aquarium more layered.
3. Cory Catfish
This is a bottom-dwelling fish that cleans up food scraps at the bottom of the aquarium, and is known as the "aquarium cleaner fish".
Size : 3-7 cm.
Personality : Gentle, with a strong tendency to live in groups.
Care advice : Use fine sand as substrate to avoid damaging their sensitive whiskers.
4. Guppy
Guppies are known for their colorful tail fins and strong reproductive ability, making them a top choice for beginners.
Size : 3-5 cm.
Personality : Lively and cheerful, suitable for mixed breeding.
Feeding recommendations : It is highly adaptable to different water conditions, but it is recommended to keep the water temperature stable and to add an appropriate amount of aquatic plants.
5. Platies (Moonfish)
Moonfish have a gentle temperament and an enchanting iridescent body, making them an ideal choice for keeping with other fish.
Size : 5-6 cm.
Personality : Friendly, likes to swim in the middle layer of the aquarium.
Care recommendations : Add aquatic plants or decorations to the aquarium to provide ample space for the fish to move around.
6. White Cloud Mountain Minnow
As a representative of cold-water fish, the white cloud golden threadfin bream is loved for its simple beauty and strong adaptability.
Size : 4-5 cm.
Personality : Gentle and gregarious.
Feeding recommendations : No heater required, suitable for water temperatures around 22℃.
7. Glowlight Tetra
This fish gets its name from the shimmering fluorescent stripes on its body, which make it twinkle like stars in the night sky when it swims.
Size : Approximately 4 cm.
Personality : Gentle, likes to swim in groups.
Feeding recommendations : Keep at least 6 fish. It is recommended to use a dark background for the aquarium to highlight their colors.
8. Killifish
The unicorn fish is famous for its colorful body patterns; each one is like a work of art from nature.
Size : 3-6 cm.
Personality : Independent, slightly shy.
Care recommendations : Aquatic plants should be planted in the aquarium to provide them with sheltered space.
9. Bumblebee Goby
Named for its black and yellow stripes, this small fish is a focal point in aquariums due to its unique appearance.
Size : 3-4 cm.
Personality : Slightly aggressive, suited to slightly salty environments.
Care advice : Add stone caves or ceramic pots to the aquarium to increase hiding places.
10. Dwarf Puffer
Damselfish pufferfish are captivating at first sight with their round bodies and big eyes, but they are quite picky about their environment.
Size : Approximately 2.5 cm.
Temperament : Strongly territorial; best kept alone.
Feeding recommendations : Provide live food such as small snails or bloodworms to meet their dietary needs.
11. Celestial Pearl Danio
Angel pearl tetras, with their spotted bodies and small size, have become stars in the aquarium.
Size : Approximately 2.5~3 cm.
Personality : Gentle but slightly shy.
Care advice : A densely planted aquarium environment can make them feel safer.
12. Neon Tetra
Neon tetras are a classic species of small freshwater fish, with their blue and red body colors standing out prominently in the water.
Size : Approximately 4 cm.
Personality : Gentle, suited for group activities.
Care advice : It is recommended to use a dark background with soft water to better showcase their colors.
3. How to create a fish tank suitable for small freshwater fish?
Aquarium size : 10-20 liters is sufficient for most small freshwater fish.
Filtration system : Small filters can keep the water clean.
Water temperature control : Maintain at 22~26℃, most small freshwater fish can adapt.
Decoration and styling : Use aquatic plants, driftwood, and stones to create a natural environment.
Lighting selection : Soft LED lights can highlight the colors of the fish.
4. Precautions for raising small freshwater fish
Feeding control : Feed once a day to avoid overfeeding.
Regular water changes : Change 10% to 20% of the water weekly to maintain stable water quality.
Observe the health status : Pay attention to the fish's swimming and appearance changes, and deal with any abnormalities promptly.
Avoid overcrowding : Overcrowding in the aquarium can affect water quality and the health of the fish.
Small freshwater fish are the best choice for beginners entering the world of aquariums. Their beauty and ease of care will make you fall in love with them! Take action now and create your own small freshwater fish paradise!
