Freshwater Tropical Fish for Beginners

Research

• You need a place for your fish to live. FishLore.com recommends an aquarium rather than a fishbowl for ease of cleaning and the health of the fish. The size of your environment and which fish you select will determine how large your aquarium should be. Look around your home and decide where you would like to set up your tank. Choose a space that maintains a fairly constant temperature and is not in direct sunlight. Keep in mind that water is quite heavy, 10 pounds per gallon, and so your tank will need to be positioned on a sturdy stand and, of course, your floor must be able to support the weight of the tank. If you have difficulty envisioning how big a 10-gallon tank versus a 55-gallon tank is, visit a pet store.

  Cost is another factor to consider. The larger the tank, the more supplies you will need to fill it. Along with the tank, you will need a filtration system, gravel, decorations, a heater and other implements to keep your tank functioning and the water clean. Visit FishLore.com for complete details about setting up and maintaining your tank, as well as resources for purchasing supplies if you prefer the online route. Otherwise, a pet store should have all the supplies you need, along with personnel that can take you step by step through the start-up process and maintenance of your new aquarium. Keep in mind also the cost of the fish themselves when planning your budget.

  While fish may seem to be independent pets that require little care, they are completely dependent upon you to maintain their environment and supply their food. Consider the time involved and be sure your schedule allows for it. Check with someone you know who has a well-kept tank and get an estimate on the daily, weekly and monthly hours required to keep your fish healthy and happy.

Choose Your Fish

• FishLore.com recommends some hardier species for the beginner, such as goldfish. Despite the name, goldfish come in numerous colors. They are peaceful and coexist well with other fish. However, if you are doing your job right and maintaining a healthy environment for them, the common varieties have a projected lifespan of 10 to 30 years--possibly a longer commitment than you intended. Angelfish are another hardy species and can live from eight to 10 years. The male Siamese Fighting Fish actually only fights with other males of its own species. Its striking jewel-like colors and long fins make it a beautiful addition to a tank. Take a trip to your pet store to get a close look at these and other species. Be sure to select fish that get along with one another and don't require more room than your tank has to offer. For instance, one goldfish requires 20 gallons and each additional goldfish means another 10 gallons. The pet store personnel should be knowledgeable about this. If not, ask for recommendations to someone in the community who is, and emphasize the fact that you are a beginner.

Consider Joining the Fish Community

• The freshwater tropical fish enthusiast is not alone. There are fish clubs, fish blogs, fish sites and fish communities, real and virtual, that you can join or contact with your questions. Visit FishLore.com or Petco.com to get started. If you have a fish story to tell, odds are there is someone willing to listen.