Here are some of the most popular freshwater fish species that are commonly kept in aquariums, each with unique characteristics and care requirements.
A common rule of thumb for how many freshwater fish you can keep in an aquarium is to allow about 1 inch of fish per gallon of water; however, this can vary depending on the specific fish species, their adult size, activity level, and bioload, with heavily planted or densely stocked tanks often needing more filtration and swimming room.
Overview The Cherry Barb (Puntius titteya) is a small, peaceful barb. Males turn deep cherry red. Endemic to the wet zone of southwestern Sri Lanka. Grows to about 2 in (5 cm) standard length. An excellent beginner fish. Almost all fish sold are farm-bred. Feeding...
Overview "Gold Piranha" is a trade name for Serrasalmus maculatus, also called the golden mac. The name is sometimes applied to other Serrasalmus species. Widespread in the Amazon, Paraguay and Paraná basins of South America. Grows to about 8 in (21 cm) standard...
Overview The Kuhli Loach is a slender, eel-like loach with orange and dark bands. It is sold as Pangio kuhlii. Most trade fish are actually Pangio semicincta from Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo. True P. kuhlii is from Java and is rarely exported. Grows to...
Overview The Red-bellied Piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri) is the most famous piranha, silver with a red belly. Found through much of the Amazon basin, plus the Essequibo and the Paraná–Paraguay system. Grows to about 14 in (35 cm) standard length. Illegal to own in...
Overview The Tiger Barb (Puntigrus tetrazona) is a bold, orange-and-black striped barb and a classic aquarium fish. Probably native to central and southern Sumatra. Grows to about 2.4 in (6 cm) standard length. Green, albino and other strains are common. Wild fish are...
Overview The Rosy Barb (Pethia conchonius) is a hardy barb. Males turn rose-red when in color. Widespread from Pakistan through India, Nepal and Bangladesh. Grows to about 3.9 in (10 cm) standard length. One of the hardiest small cyprinids. Long-finned and neon forms...