While there are certain combinations we know with relative certainty do or do not work in most instances, there are countless others that can go either way depending on a variety of factors. Here are some things to keep in mind when purchasing fish for your aquarium that can help determine fish compatibility. Most fish need space, and the more they have the better they tend to get along.
When fish are crowded they become more agitated and are more likely to quarrel with tank mates. A general rule of thumb for stocking a fish tank is one inch of adult size fish per net gallon of aquarium capacity, but territorial fish need even more space.
Remember that the fish you buy will probably grow, and a 30 gallon aquarium doesn't actually hold 30 gallons of water when you factor in internal dimensions, gravel and decorations. Another consideration are the dimensions of your new aquarium. Different fish prefer different shapes and swimming spaces. Wider aquariums give active fish, like danios and barbs, the space to spread out, which in turn helps them get along better.
On the other hand, tall, narrow aquariums are appealing to look at and fit into narrow spaces but don't offer fish as much swimming space or territory as a wider aquarium. These aquariums should be used for less active fish like discus, angelfish and gouramis. Aquarium decorations help with saltwater and freshwater fish compatibility in several ways.
Most fish need a place to call their own and they define their personal areas by physical boundaries. In addition, when they can't see each other, they tend to mind their own business.
Rocks, caves, driftwood and other decorations help define territories for cichlids and other territorial fish, while tall bushy plants provide habitat and give schooling fish like tetras , barbs, danios and rasboras their own areas to occupy.
Fish communicate in a variety of ways, and signals can be misinterpreted because fish from different parts of the world "speak different languages". Research fish before buying and try to stock your aquarium with fish from the same region, especially if they are aggressive or territorial species. Cichlids, certain species of sharks, loaches, knife fish, mormyrids and other territorial fish do not share space well with members of their own kind or closely related species.
Large aquariums with plenty of cover help, but many of these fish are best kept individually and tank mates should not be similar looking or closely related.
Asking your local retailer about how to build a community fish tank, featuring a variety of species is always a good option. Finding an appropriate fish compatible with bettas, for example, can be challenging but your local expert can help advise you as needed. Juvenile fish are usually easy going, even if they are known to become aggressive as adults. They can often be mixed with a wider selection of tank mates, which they'll accept as they grow and mature. Since they can grow to the size of a small saucer, keep them in 55 or more gallons of water especially in vertically tall tanks.
Common varieties include marble, zebra, koi, and veil angelfish. All of these beginner fish are hardy, easy to care for, and readily available at your local fish store, so have fun researching your next fish and deciding which one is best for you!
Shop Menu. Rasboras There are many types of rasboras, but our favorite ones are the harlequin rasbora Trigonostigma heteromorpha and lambchop rasbora Trigonostigma espei. Tetras Like rasboras, tetras are another very popular, small schooling fish that come in tons of varieties — like neon tetras Paracheirodon innesi , cardinal tetras Paracheirodon axelrodi , black neon tetras Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi , and Congo tetras Phenacogrammus interruptus.
Corydoras Cory catfish are peaceful schooling fish, much like rasboras and tetras, but they dwell at the bottom of the aquarium. Platies These 3-inch livebearers meaning fish that bear live young are especially robust, even more so than guppies.
Betta Fish Betta fish are the king of beginner fish because of their vivid coloration, small size, and simple care requirements. Barbs Barbs make a lively, action-packed addition to your community tank. Kuhli Loaches Kuhli loaches Pangio kuhlii will either fascinate or freak you out because they look like little 4-inch eels or snakes.
Angelfish With their beautiful shape, distinctive fins, and lovely striped pattern, the striking angelfish certainly lives up to its name. Subscribe Get weekly aquarium blog articles right in your inbox. Email address Subscribe.
Featured Products Repashy Super Gold. Repashy Super Gold. Sale price Regular price. Error Quantity must be 1 or more. Hikari Sinking Wafers. Xtreme Betta Pellets 1mm.
Some small species have larger tank requirements due to territoriality or the need to school in groups. Before adding any new fish to an existing tank, be sure to do your research to make sure everyone will get along and have the correct water quality requirements, including temperature. Actively scan device characteristics for identification. Use precise geolocation data. Select personalised content. Create a personalised content profile.
Measure ad performance. Select basic ads. Create a personalised ads profile. Select personalised ads. Apply market research to generate audience insights. Measure content performance. Develop and improve products.
List of Partners vendors. Mickey Mouse Platy. Zebra danio Zebrafish. Neon Tetra. Continue to 5 of 22 below. White Cloud Mountain Minnow. Harlequin Rasbora.
Serpae Tetra. Panda Corydora. Continue to 9 of 22 below. Glowlight Tetra. Pea Puffer. Tiger Barb. Continue to 13 of 22 below. German Blue Ram. Buenos Aires Tetra. Dwarf Gourami. Gold Chinese Barb. Continue to 17 of 22 below. Betta Fish. Congo Tetra. Beacon Fish. Continue to 21 of 22 below. Black Phantom Tetra. Black Ruby Barb. Featured Video. Read More. Your Privacy Rights.
0コメント