Different Kinds of Fish for Aquariums

Aquarium owners derive great enjoyment from watching their collection of vibrantly colored fish as they swim about. To put together a successful and thriving aquarium, do some research into the different types of fish. Get to know their physical and behavioral characteristics. The goal is to choose fish that will not only bring you enjoyment, but will peacefully co-exist with their fellow tankmates.

  1. Catfish

    • With more than 2,000 species, catfish are among the most common aquarium fish. Catfish are defined by their lack of scales; instead they have a skin-like plating. Catfish are typically a shade of gray or brown, and can often be identified by long whiskers around their mouth.They scavenge for food at the bottom of the aquarium, meaning they are relatively easy to feed. Certain species of catfish are nocturnal and must eat at night, or at least in the dark. Because there are so many species of catfish, it's highly likely that you'll be able to find one that will work for your aquarium setup.

    Labyrinth Fish

    • Labyrinth fish are typically very small in size and include Paradise Fish and Fighting Fish. Labyrinth fish are very well-suited to community living in an aquarium. They are resilient, particularly so for their size, and peaceful. One exception, however, is the Fighting Fish, which can be quite aggressive. Male fighting fish are especially combative and often wage war on male fish of other species. Labyrinth fish can be quite stunning and come in varying shades of bright blues and reds, among other colors. It is characteristic for labyrinth fish to be several different colors, making them appealing to watch.

    Cichlids

    • Cichlids, a group of fish most commonly found in Asia and Africa, are mostly very colorful and include species such as Angelfish. Cichlids are territorial in nature, especially so after having just laid eggs or when nurturing their young. This characteristic often leads them to act out against other species, and it is recommended that they be removed from an aquarium when about to bear young. Certain species of Cichlids, such as the Dwarf Cichlids and Angelfish, are more peaceful and can oftentimes co-exist with certain other fish species without incident. Cichlids are typically very bright in color and many bear stripes.