There are thousands of different species of fish that can be kept in home aquariums. However, there are a few species that are well-known as being among the most common fish preferred by fish owners. Most fish species have specialized pet care procedures that need to be followed in order for the fish to live a long, healthy life. It’s very important to research the proper fish care needed by a species of fish that you plan to keep, in order to ensure that they are able to live comfortably.
GOLDFISH
Goldfish are by far the most common species of fish that are kept in freshwater aquariums. Goldfish are very inexpensive, and are easily able to adapt to a variety of living environments without excessive stress. Goldfish are of ancient Chinese origin, and at one time people that were outside of the Imperial family were not allowed to keep certain types of goldfish. Contrary to popular belief, goldfish need a large amount of water in order to be healthy. This is because goldfish expel a significant amount of waste both through their bowels and from their gills. This waste accumulation is the number one reason why goldfish kept in small bowls seem to die suddenly. Though goldfish are relatively hardy, they will not be able to survive rapid, sudden changes in temperature. However, most goldfish are able to survive in tanks without external heat, which makes them great pets for fish owners on a budget. Goldfish thrive when exposed to ultraviolet light, however, since it allows them to have a pigment production response which brightens their color. If a goldfish is kept in a dark area for an extended period of time, their skin will lose its colors and turn a dull gray.
NEON TETRA
Tetra fish are a small species of fish that are native to Africa, Central America and South America. The most common of the tetra fish that are kept in home aquariums are called neon tetras. Neon tetras are characterized by bright, vibrant colors, which are light blue, silver-white and an iridescent blue horizontal stripe that runs down their side. Neon tetras are best kept in groups of five or more, since they are prone to being shy and antisocial if alone. Neon tetras can live for a very long time, sometimes being known to live for ten years or more. Neon tetra fish are commonly kept in aquariums due to their inexpensive price and relatively low-impact behavior.
ANGELFISH
Freshwater angelfish are classified as being part of the genus pterophyllum. Currently, all know species of freshwater angelfish are native to the Orinoco River, Amazon River and Essequibo River basins in South America. Angelfish are very triangular in shape, with dramatically protruding fins. They tend to have vertical stripes that give them a method of camouflage among aquatic plant life. Angelfish are a predatory species, and may sometimes eat smaller fish in their tank if not properly fed. Angelfish are a fairly common species among freshwater fish owners because of their exotic appearance and dramatic color pattern.