10 Incredible Fish You Can Keep as a Pet

The world's most beautiful and fascinating animals are tropical fish. Numerous tropical fish species might inspire a calm beauty in the aquarium or awaken our intrinsic curiosity about the natural world. Many animals have odd behaviors that make them desirable residents of our homes.

1. Betta

Many betta owners have similar sentiments for their finny buddies as owners of more common pets like dogs, cats, hamsters, and parakeets. Bettas are among the world's most popular pet fish. Betta fish are relatively intelligent small fish. They are believed to be closely linked to the brilliant family of pet fish known as cichlids on the evolutionary tree, as evidenced by the high level of parental care they provide for their young. On a more human level, bettas frequently exhibit entertaining personality "quirks," enjoy exploring their surroundings and are generally aware of their surroundings. They soon pick up on human recognition, understand feeding time, and become ecstatic when you approach their aquarium.

2. Pearl Gourami

The pearl gourami is among the most beautiful and hardy fish to maintain. Because it is a platyfish, it may breathe by gulping air from the tank's surface. The pearl gourami can vocalize like some other labyrinth fish, so don't be surprised if you hear your pet making growling or croaking noises, especially when breeding or fighting. They are similar to dwarf gourami because they are both peaceful fish.

Although pearl gourami are typically calm fish that thrive in a tank full of community fish, keep them away from aggressive fish. The males, in particular, can be hostile toward other members of the same species. Therefore there are a few exceptions to this rule. These fish can get along just fine with other little schooling fish and active fish, but keeping them with others that are roughly their size and disposition is better. One male and many female pearl gouramis make an excellent grouping if you maintain several of them.

3. Angelfish

The angelfish, one of the most recognizable tropical fish, adds a regal beauty to the aquarium with their long fins and spherical bodies. These fish, whose bodies typically cost between a quarter and a half dollars, may reach a diameter of 3" and heights of over a foot. When housed in a huge group in a large fish tank, they might not be name-worthy, but a pair in a smaller aquarium or as a community member will frequently acquire a name. They get along well with their tank mates and often come to the front of the aquarium to greet their keepers and converse with them.

4. Fancy Guppies

The guppy is another traditional aquarium fish that has been popular for over a century. Today, several diverse fin and color strains have undergone numerous generations of selective breeding. Even though an aquarium filled with numerous elegant guppies can be lovely, most people only keep a few at a time, which is when they are most likely to become well-known. They will win the hearts of many enthusiasts with their continual swimming behavior, sociable demeanor, and vibrant colors. Numerous strains result in persons with distinctive colors that might help quickly identify specific fish, a quality that is crucial for "naming." These colorful freshwater fish can expend a lot of energy swimming actively.

5. Mollies

A mainstay of freshwater aquarium fish species and a longtime favorite of aquarists, molly fish! These fish are renowned for having low maintenance care needs and many different species. The common molly comes to mind when most people think about molly fish. Although there are many other kinds, most resemble the common molly in terms of appearance and body type. These fish have triangular-shaped heads and flattened bodies. The body is broad in the middle and tapers to a tiny tip at the snout. On the opposite end, the body narrows as it approaches the fan-like tail's base.

6. Siamese Fighting Fish

Siamese fighting fish are attractive, inexpensive, and ideal for anyone searching for a low-maintenance pet that requires very little room. These fish can be enjoyed and cared for as a pet for up to three years because of their magnificent fins and fantastic palette of colors.

7. Oscars

Due to their black/brown and orange markings, Oscar fish are often referred to as "tiger oscars" and "marble cichlids." Although the oscar fish species is one of the most intelligent aquarium species, it can be difficult to handle because of its aggressive and territorial nature. Oscar fish require only moderate care. It is simple to mimic the oscar fish's diverse omnivore diet and tropical freshwater habitat. However, the oscar fish needs particular caution while housed with other fish species due to its aggressive characteristics. The three most crucial tank requirements for oscar fish are a sizable tank, regular water quality, and a high water flow. Oscar fish should be given a balanced diet that includes live meals, pellet foods, and plant material.

8. Neon Tetras

Although they may appear tiny, a school of these colorful freshwater fish can look fantastic in an aquarium. These fish are an eye-catching addition to a communal freshwater aquarium thanks to their vivid blue and red streaks. Because of their modest size and generally laid-back nature, neon tetras have little effect on the water's quality. Neon Tetras have a maximum length of 1.5 inches. Start with at least three to five people because they prefer to attend school together. They are the perfect inhabitants for a tranquil, Zen-style planted aquarium.

9. Zebra Danios

Small and low-maintenance, the Zebra Danios can reach heights of 5 to 7 cm. Zebra Danios enjoy eating crustaceans, worms, and other small animals. They can also be fed with regular fish flakes. These aquatic creatures have a reputation for leaping from tanks. These adorable little fish are easily recognized by their zebra-like horizontal black and white stripes that run the length of their bodies, as their name suggests. Zebrafish don't require warm water temps, unlike other tropical fish. Zebrafish prefer cooler water to prevent your aquarium from becoming too chilly in the winter. You might still need a small heater.

10. Fancy Goldfish

Goldfish have a charming personalities, are appealing, and are simple to care for. It's no wonder why they're popular aquarium fish. These beautiful fish have the potential to become fairly huge, necessitating a larger community tank. When they're young, a few may be kept in a 10-gallon tank, but as they get bigger, you should plan to transfer them to a much bigger community tank or outside pond. Different distinctive body shapes and colors have been carefully cultivated over many years in addition to the typical "Comet" variation. These fish are very social and will engage in conversation with their keepers.