Many people don’t realize the importance of choosing the right fish for their tanks. The process requires plentiful considerations and seamless preparedness. Because we know how overwhelming filling up your tank may be, we are here to guide you about how you can choose a new fish for your tank.
For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet and Family Home collections
Tank’s Dimensions
Before purchasing fish for your tank, you need to keep in mind that different fish thrive in different spaces and tank shapes. Those that are more active like danios and barbs, prefer wider aquariums. Wider tanks provide them with sufficient space to spread out, which can help them interact more effectively. Some types tend to become hostile when packed closely to each other. Although tall and narrow tanks are aesthetically pleasing and offer a space advantage, they are not sustainable choices for active types of fish. If your tank resonates with this description, then you may want to look into species like gouramis, angelfish, discus, and other kinds that are less active.
Tank’s Size
Besides the dimensions of the tank, you need to consider its overall size as well. As we mentioned above, fish communicate and interact more efficiently when they’re spaced out. They can become easily distressed, and may even fight with their peers if they’re not granted enough space. As a general rule of thumb, you need a net gallon of tank capacity for each adult fish you have in your aquarium. However, keep in mind that territorial fishes require more space, and those that you purchase will likely grow in size. You also need to account for your decorations, internal dimensions, and gravel when it comes to the size of your aquarium. This means that a 50-gallon tank will not hold 50 gallons of water. Remember that what you consider a large tank doesn’t equate to the space they get in their natural habitat.
The Origin and Species of the Fish
Fishes communicate in numerous ways. In fact, research has found that those that come from different regions may communicate differently. This is why it would be helpful if you research both their types as well as their origins to ensure that they all come from the same region, especially if you’re purchasing territorial or highly aggressive species. Doing so will help them communicate effectively.
It’s important as well to identify which types of fish are compatible with each other. Betta fish, for instance, are often challenging to care for. And it can also be hard to find other species that are comfortable living with them. If you’re particularly interested in getting Ghost shrimp and betta, then before doing so you need to learn about them and how to take care of them so they can live a long and healthy life.
Researching and learning basic facts about whichever type of fish you end up with is necessary; aquarists at https://aquariumstoredepot.com/blogs/news/ghost-shrimp-and-betta suggest that you extensively read up on them before deciding. Species, like knife fish, cichlids, mormyrids, loaches, and other territorial species, don’t get along well with their own or with those similar to their kind. Although large tanks may help in this case, you still can’t guarantee that they’d safely coexist with each other. It’s better to surround them with types that aren’t closely related.
The Gender
Generally, male fishes are comparatively more aggressive and territorial than females, especially when mating. This is the case, particularly for cichlids. Make sure to research the gender differences in the species you intend to purchase. If you’re getting aggressive species, territorial fish, or cichlids, keep the male count to one at max. Livebearers should be kept at a ratio of around 3 females for each male you have. This can help keep the mating behavior under control.
Different Personalities
You can understand a lot about fish by reading about the general traits and characteristics of its species. However, keep in mind that these traits are overgeneralized, and just like humans, they too have unique personalities. Aside from ensuring that the types you have in your tank are highly compatible, you need to be ready to separate those that don’t get along individually, even when you least expect it.
Quantity
Some species, like some kinds of danios and tetras, and tiger barbs, are most behaved and at peace when they live in large schools. You also need to keep in mind that there are shy schooling fish. These types are less likely to be bullied when they are kept in a large group. Schooling fish should consist of at least 6 individuals.
Many people often overlook the fact that some fishes are not meant to share an aquarium. Forcing them to coexist can impact their well-being and result in fatal consequences. You may even be surprised to learn that some combinations that are widely believed to work may go incredibly wrong depending on several factors. Fortunately, now you can select your pet fish mindfully and ensure a peaceful tank environment.
For more on this topic, check out the full Family Pet and Family Home collections
