Bringing home ornamental fish? Read this guide before you begin

There’s something truly soothing about watching vibrant fish glide effortlessly through clear water. Aquariums aren't just decorative, they offer a peaceful escape, spark curiosity, and often become a rewarding hobby.

For those new to aquarium keeping, starting with hardy, low-maintenance fish is the key to a smooth and enjoyable experience.

But before diving in, there are a few essential things every beginner should keep in mind.

Avoid overfeeding your fish. Leftover food can accumulate in the water, pollute it, and lead to health problems for the fish. Feed them once or twice a day in small amounts. I

t’s also important to change the water regularly to maintain a healthy environment.

Let’s take a look at some fish species that are suitable for beginners:

Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta Fish)

Known for their attractive colours and long, flowing fins, Betta fish can survive even in low-oxygen water. However, avoid keeping two males together, as they tend to fight each other.

Platy

These calm and small fish are available in a variety of colours. Easy to care for, platies enjoy being in groups and thrive in community tanks with aquatic plants.

Molly

Mollies adapt quickly to changing weather conditions. With the right adjustments, they can live in both freshwater and saltwater. They also breed quickly.

Zebra Danios

Zebra Danios are hardy fish with striped bodies. They can tolerate a range of temperatures and water conditions. Keep them in groups of five or six, and ensure there's enough space for swimming.

Neon Tetra

These fish have beautiful, glowing blue and red stripes and are among the most popular choices for beginners. These fish are generally calm in nature and do well in groups of six or more.

Corydoras Catfish

These bottom-dwelling fish help keep the tank clean by eating leftover food. You can keep three to six of them together. A soft, sandy substrate is ideal for them.

Cherry Barb

Cherry Barbs are peaceful and attractive fish that don’t require much maintenance. They prefer to be in groups and enjoy aquatic plants. During breeding, males become more vibrant red in colour.