Choosing Your Fish

Before you take any steps setting up a new aquarium -- before you even purchase an aquarium -- you need to decide what type of fish you'd like to keep! In most cases, you'll need to consider your fish's species in determining other factors, such as the type of food they will eat, the aquarium that will be best-suited for them, and whether or not you will need to purchase an aquarium heater.

You can choose your fish based solely on appearance, or you can take other elements into consideration, such as hardiness (for first-time fish keepers) or any limitations you may have for aquarium size. A few of the most common species of fish include Goldfish, Bettas, and Guppies, some of which will need a heater to keep aquarium water at the appropriate temperature (usually between 24.4-27.7 degrees Celsius). These fish also generally require a 40 litre tank, at the smallest, to thrive in communities with other fish. Bettas can, however, get by in a 20 litre tank.

Other popular fish species include Barbs, Mollies, and Cichlids, all of which are freshwater fish and generally live in communities. Then there are bottom feeder fish, such as Catfish, Plecos, and Loaches, whose downturned mouths are ideal for the sinking pellet variety of fish food. These fish generally do better in warmer water temperatures, as well.

If you're considering fish species that require a saltwater tank, your options include colorful Clownfish, Tangs, and Angelfish, to name a few. Most smaller saltwater fish are able to live in communities, and generally need water temperatures to remain between 21.1-26.6 degrees Celsius. Larger, more predatory saltwater fish, such as Lionfish, Puffers, and Small Sharks are not community-friendly, and should live in their own tanks.

Check out our API® line of fish food products here and the benefits of feeding API® nutritional products to your fish below.

Whichever type of fish you choose, your aquarium is bound to be a fun and special addition to your home!