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 Duboisi Cichlid (Tropheus duboisi), or white-spotted cichlid, is a Lake Tanganyika cichlid. Juveniles are black with white spots and adults develop a pale band. Lives in rocky areas, in deeper water than other Tropheus. Grows to about 5 in (12 cm)...
Overview The Discus (Symphysodon aequifasciatus and related Symphysodon species) is a disc-shaped Amazon cichlid prized for its color. Wild fish live in slow tributaries and forest pools along the Rio Solimões and Amazon. Grows to about 6 in (15 cm) long and nearly as...
Overview The Paraguay Eartheater (Gymnogeophagus balzanii) is a hump-headed South American cichlid that sifts sand for food. Native to the Paraná and Uruguay basins in Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina and Uruguay. Grows to about 8 in (20 cm) standard length. Best for...
Overview The Iridescent Shark (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) is a large, schooling catfish, not a shark. It was formerly called Pangasius sutchi. Native to the Mekong and Chao Phraya rivers of Southeast Asia. Can reach about 51 in (130 cm) standard length. Sold as...