Different Species of Fish Suitable for Pets

Many species of fish make excellent pets. Setting up a small fish tank is an good way to teach children about animals and nature, and many kids get their first introduction to caring for pets with a pet fish. Adults can also enjoy the beauty and ambiance that an aquarium provides. But no matter what your age, it is important to choose suitable fish for your tank or fishbowl.

  1. Bettas

    • In their native Thailand, bettas are known as Siamese fighting fish, and male bettas are known for their aggressiveness with one another. In the aquarium, however, bettas make excellent pets, and the fact that they are able to breathe air from the surface of the water makes them suitable for unfiltered fishbowls and aquariums. While male bettas should not be housed with other males of their own species, they can be safely kept with other peaceful fish.

    Goldfish

    • Many of us got our first exposure to keeping a pet with a goldfish and a goldfish bowl. Goldfish make excellent pets, since they are easy to care for, widely available and inexpensive to buy. Like bettas, goldfish can be kept in bowls and tanks that are not filtered, although filtration will keep the tank cleaner. If the goldfish is kept in a bowl or an unfiltered tank, pet owners should change the water often to keep their pets in top shape. And since goldfish are cold water fish, a heater is not necessary.

    Cichlids

    • Cichlids are an excellent choice for the aquarium hobbyist, since they are among the most interactive of pet fish. Cichlids do need adequate filtration and a heated tank, but they are social and will come to the front of the tank to greet you when waiting to be fed. There are many species of cichlids from which to choose. Some varieties get very large, so be sure to ask the staff at the pet store how big the fish you are considering will become.