Breeds of Fish For Beginners

Whether you are beginning as a fish hobbyist or a seasoned pro, it’s always good to do a little research ahead of time to help you make the best decision in choosing what kind of fish you want and what kind of environment you'll set up for them. When I started out as a beginner, I discovered it was best to find fish that were easy to care for (fish with strong survival instincts, for example). If you want to create a community tank that houses many species of fish, you want to ensure compatibility so you don’t wake up one morning and find the aftermath of a bloody war in your tank. In fact, one of the first things I learned was which breeds are social and which breeds are better housed alone. I’ve included some information on a few of the more popular species, all ideal for beginners.

Bettas (Siamese Fighting Fish)

 

Halfmoon Tail Betta (Male)

One of the most popular tropical freshwater fish is the Betta, also known as the Siamese Fighting Fish. Bettas are a favorite among fish enthusiasts because of their vibrant colors and flowing fins (as can be seen above). They're also fairly popular among casual fish owners, mainly because they're so easy to care for (in fact, the first fish I ever owned was a Betta!). You can set them up in anything from a glorious 50-gallon palace to an old (but clean) pickle jar. 

                    

Please note, however, that housing two Bettas together is akin to putting two gladiators in a ring, especially males; they're called Siamese Fighting Fish for a reason. Breeding shouldn't be attempted by anybody who doesn't know exactly what he or she is doing. They can, however, coexist with the rest of the breeds mentioned here (with the possible exception of guppies).

Mollies

Dalmatian Molly

The Molly is a very friendly and versatile fish. Mollies are Brackish fish, meaning they can live in both freshwater and saltwater. They are widely considered to be a fascinating species that tends to be well suited to life in a large community tank. Because of their peaceable nature, Mollies are compatible with many other breeds of fish that dwell in similar water conditions.

Sailfin Molly

One of the more interesting facts about Mollies is that they are livebearers, meaning that, when bred, the females retain the eggs inside their bodies and give birth to live, free-swimming young. As a result, they are quite easy and fun to breed.

Tetras

Neon Tetra

The Tetra has been nicknamed "the great community fish". They can be recognized by a small rounded fin between the dorsal fin and tail called the adipose fin, though it isn't exclusive to their breed (some catfish have this fin, for example). Tetras have many bones that join the inner ear and swim bladder, giving them enhanced hearing. Most Tetras thrive in a peaceful community tank, as they are active schooling fish. Six or more Tetras can be kept in the same tank tank, provided that it is big enough to house them. The Neon and Cardinal Tetras are among the most popular of all freshwater fish, possibly because they add a touch of brilliance and socialization to their environment.

Suckermouth Catfish

Suckermouth Catfish

The Suckermouth Catfish is a nocturnal fish with an average lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. They are peaceful fish that can be kept in a community tank. They have an underslung mouth that helps them eat algae. Suckermouth Cats like to burrow, tending to thrive in environments with ample rocks, wood and other places for them to hide. Even though they are herbivores, they can become too big for small aquariums. Keeping the aquarium clean and algae free can help, as algae can become an unlimited food source for them. Unlike us, fish don't stop eating when they get full, so a Suckermouth Catfish that eats too much will quickly grow large and obese. Please try not to starve them, though; nobody wants a dead fish.

The Guppy

Various Guppies

The Guppy fish is quite possibly THE most popular fish in the world, probably because they're extremely common and inexpensive (though some of the fancier ones can be a bit valuable). These small fish are beautiful, peaceful, lively, curious, sociable, and have a large variety of colors (as seen above). Because they are so common, Guppies are easy to find and collect. They are considered to be a great choice for beginner fish enthusiasts (especially children) because they are easy to care for and can get along with any fish that won't nip at their fins. 

When trying to discern the gender of a Guppy, keep in mind that the females tend to be larger with a dull coloration, while the males are smaller and brighter.

Alright, that's enough for this week; be sure to check back next Friday for more!