5 Hardy Aquarium Fish Perfect for Beginners

Have you ever had a pet fish when you were younger? Maybe a goldfish or a betta? While those can be great introductions to the underwater world, starting a thriving aquarium takes a bit more planning. And if you're new to the hobby, or perhaps have young children eager to care for their own pet fish, it's wise to start with hardy aquarium fish.

But what exactly are hardy aquarium fish? These are species that are more tolerant of less-than-perfect water conditions, more resistant to diseases, and generally easier to care for. They can handle a few beginner mistakes, making them ideal for first-time aquarists. This is particularly beneficial for children learning about the responsibilities of caring for pet fish, as it provides a bit of a safety net while they develop their aquarium keeping skills.

Ready to meet some of the easiest fish to keep? Let's dive in!

Guppies

• Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
• Schooling: Prefer to be in groups, especially females.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons.
• Temperament: Peaceful and active.

Guppies are a classic choice for beginners for a reason! These colorful livebearers are incredibly adaptable and forgiving, making them some of the easiest fish to keep. They tolerate a wide range of water conditions and are relatively resistant to common fish diseases. Plus, they're readily available and come in a dazzling array of colors and fin types, making them a joy to watch. Their size also makes them a great fish for small tanks, although a larger tank is always preferable to give them more space to swim and thrive.

Harlequin Rasboras

• Scientific Name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha
• Schooling: Yes, keep in groups of 6 or more.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons.
• Temperament: Peaceful and active.

These charming fish are known for their distinctive black triangular marking and vibrant orange coloration. Harlequin Rasboras are shoaling fish, so make sure to get a decent-sized group to see their natural schooling behavior. They are hardy due to their ability to adapt to a variety of water conditions and their relatively low susceptibility to diseases. Their peaceful nature makes them ideal for community tanks.

Neon Tetras

• Scientific Name: Paracheirodon innesi
• Schooling: Yes, keep in groups of 6 or more.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons.
• Temperament: Peaceful and active.

Neon Tetras are a hardy aquarium fish and staple in the hobby. Their iconic glowing blue stripe and vibrant red tail make them a beautiful addition to any tank. These active schooling fish are hardy and adaptable, tolerating a range of water parameters. They are generally peaceful and thrive in a community setting.

Note: Beginners sometimes confuse Neon Tetras with Cardinal Tetras. While similar in appearance, Cardinal Tetras have a longer red stripe extending along the whole body, while Neon Tetras only have a partial red stripe on the lower half of their bodies.

Honey Gourami

• Scientific Name: Trichogaster chuna
• Schooling: No, can be kept singly or in pairs.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons.
• Temperament: Peaceful and relatively shy.

Honey Gouramis are a fantastic choice for beginners looking for a slightly larger centerpiece fish for a small tank. Their bright yellow coloration adds a beautiful pop of color to any aquarium. They are known for their peaceful temperament and adaptability. While they can be kept in pairs, males can sometimes be territorial with each other, so it's best to keep only one male per tank.

Corydoras Catfish

• Scientific Name: Corydoras sp. (many species available)
• Schooling: Yes, keep in groups of 3 or more.
• Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons.
• Temperament: Peaceful and bottom-dwelling.

Corydoras Catfish, or "Corys" as they are affectionately known, are a must-have for any beginner aquarium. These peaceful bottom dwellers are not only adorable with their whisker-like barbels, but they also help keep your tank clean by scavenging for leftover food. Their hardiness stems from their ability to tolerate a range of water conditions and their natural foraging behavior, which makes them less prone to stress from inconsistent feeding.

Find Hardy Aquarium Fish at East Ocean

These hardy aquarium fish are just a few of the many fantastic options available for beginners. Starting with hardy species allows you to enjoy the beauty of an aquarium without the added stress of delicate fish. But remember, even the easiest fish to keep need a proper environment to thrive.

If you’re looking for a place to buy freshwater tropical fish online in Singapore, visit East Ocean Aquatic today! We have a wide variety of hardy aquarium fish, including all the species mentioned in this article. Whether you're looking for fish for small tanks or have a larger setup in mind, our knowledgeable staff can provide expert advice and help you create the perfect underwater haven.