Although most people usually go for cats and dogs, there are several people who prefer to get a fish as a pet. However, a small aquarium would be the ideal choice in small spaces. These little fish tanks can be placed on a desktop and they come with all you need for a fully functioning aquarium.
Small fish tanks can be gotten in varying sizes (one, two, three, and five-gallon tanks) and they can restrict your stocking options. However, a five-gallon tank while still small can maximize your limited options, such that the health of the fish won’t be compromised.
Top 5 Best Fish For a Small Tank
Fancy Guppies
Also known as rainbow fish, guppies are one of the most popular freshwater fish species in aquariums. What makes them a great choice for a small tank is the fact that they can thrive in different ecological and environmental conditions. They do especially well in temperatures ranging from 25.5-27.8 degrees Celsius and can withstand water with salinity levels 150% more than normal seawater.
Both male and female guppies show signs of shoaling, hence it is not advised that they are kept as a single pet. However, do not overcrowd the tank (they shouldn’t be more than 5) to give them enough space to move freely. Guppies also come in different colors which can improve the overall aesthetics of your aquarium.
Betta Splendens
Bettas are another species of fish which are quite popular in the aquarium trade. As long as the water is crystal clear, you may not need to put on the filtration. Ensure the current isn’t too strong and the aquarium is well decorated. They can be very territorial (especially males) and as such should be kept as a single pet in small tanks. It is not recommended to keep both male and female bettas in the same place.
That notwithstanding, they are one of the best fish for a small tank. As with every pet, you should learn how to properly care for bettas.
Cory Catfish
Unlike the bettas, corys are not aggressive and they get along with other fish species. This makes them an ideal choice if you want to have several species in your tank. Due to their social nature, they don’t do well in isolation. They are best kept in shoals of at least three. Corys are also very small which makes them a good fit for small tanks.
Since they are mostly bottom feeders, sinking pellets are ideal for feeding corys. While they can withstand a wide range of conditions, corys do not do so well in tanks with high nitrate levels.
Small Tetras
Being one of the best fish for a small tank, tetras are available in a variety of different species. Due to their small size and timid nature, they should not be kept with aggressive fish species like the bettas. However, they can mix well with gentle fishes like the guppies. They should also be kept in shoals of six tetras and above. Tetras do great in well-planted tanks as they like to hide.
Some small tetras that can be used in small tanks include Lemon tetras, Black tetras, Neon tetras, Ruby tetras, and Cardinal tetras.
White Cloud Mountain Minnow
The minnow is a small fish that fits well in a small tank or aquarium. They are peaceful and can live well with other fish species, except aggressive ones that can hurt or even eat them. They can also tolerate a wide range of water conditions. Minnows are usually kept in shoals of five and above since they don’t do well in isolation.
All these make them one of the best fish for a small tank. Their ideal foods are pellets and flakes and they are great for first-time fish owners.
Conclusion
These are just some of the best fishes that can fit into your small tank. Use different species with varying colors to give your aquarium a colorful look. It is important, however, that you learn how to take care of each fish you decide to keep in your tank.
