The Top 7 Aquarium Fish for Beginners: Easy to Care For and Stunning to Look At

Getting started with an aquarium can be overwhelming, but choosing the right fish makes all the difference. For beginners, it’s important to select species that are hardy, low-maintenance, and compatible with each other. Here are seven of the best aquarium fish for beginners, guaranteed to thrive even if you’re new to fishkeeping.

Introduction

Starting your first aquarium doesn’t have to be complicated. By selecting beginner-friendly fish, you can enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance aquarium that’s easy to care for. In this list, we’ll highlight the best fish for beginners and offer tips on how to care for them.


1. Betta Fish

Betta fish are known for their vibrant colors and flowing fins. They are easy to care for and thrive in small tanks, making them perfect for beginners. However, male bettas should be kept solo to avoid aggression.

  • Tank Size: 5+ gallons
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Diet: High-quality flakes or pellets

2. Neon Tetras

Neon tetras are small, colorful schooling fish that do best in groups. They are hardy and adapt well to various water conditions, making them a great choice for community tanks.

  • Tank Size: 10+ gallons
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Diet: Omnivorous, flakes and micro-pellets

3. Guppies

With their playful nature and variety of colors, guppies are another popular choice for beginners. They are livebearers, meaning they can reproduce easily in a home aquarium, which adds excitement for hobbyists.

  • Tank Size: 10+ gallons
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Diet: Omnivorous

4. Zebra Danios

Zebra Danios are hardy and highly adaptable, making them perfect for new aquarists. They are also very active and can thrive in a range of temperatures.

  • Tank Size: 10+ gallons
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Diet: Omnivorous, flakes, and small insects

5. Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras catfish are peaceful bottom-dwellers that help keep the tank clean by scavenging for food. They are best kept in groups of three or more.

  • Tank Size: 15+ gallons
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Diet: Omnivorous, sinking pellets

6. Cherry Shrimp

While not a fish, cherry shrimp are fantastic additions to beginner aquariums. They are low-maintenance, help clean up algae, and add a pop of color.

  • Tank Size: 5+ gallons
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Diet: Algae wafers, detritus

7. Mollies

Mollies are another easy-to-care-for species that thrive in both freshwater and brackish water. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, making them an attractive option for beginners.

  • Tank Size: 20+ gallons
  • Care Level: Easy
  • Diet: Herbivorous, algae-based flakes

Final Thoughts

Starting with beginner-friendly fish is the best way to ensure success in your new aquarium hobby. These species are not only beautiful but also easy to care for, giving you a stress-free experience as you get comfortable with fishkeeping.