A tropical aquarium not only provides a peaceful and relaxing environment but also allows you to appreciate the beauty of aquatic life. One of the most important decisions when setting up an aquarium is choosing the right tropical fish for your community tank. In this article, I will guide you through a list of 20 peaceful community fish, ensuring that your aquarium is peaceful and thriving.
Best tropical fish for a community tank
The best tropical fish for a community tank are those that exhibit peaceful behavior and can coexist harmoniously with other fish species. Whenever I select fish for my community tank, I always consider their temperament, size, and compatibility with other species. Some popular choices include the peaceful and colorful guppies, which are small in size and can thrive in a variety of tank conditions. Another great option is the peaceful platy, known for its vibrant colors and ease of care. The hardy and sociable neon tetra is also an excellent choice, as they are known for their schooling behavior and ability to get along with other peaceful fish. It is crucial to research and carefully select compatible fish species to ensure a harmonious and thriving community aquarium.
Listed below are 20 peaceful community fish for your aquarium
Guppy Fish
Guppies are small, peaceful, and colorful fish that add a vibrant touch to any aquarium. They are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of water conditions. When selecting guppies, it is important to consider their compatibility with other fish species and their specific care requirements. To help you make an informed decision, here is a table showcasing five types of guppies along with their size, temperament, and recommended tank size:
| Guppy Type | Size | Temperament | Recommended Tank Size |
|————|——|————-|———————-|
| Fancy Guppy | 2.5 inches | Peaceful | 10 gallons |
| Endler’s Guppy | 1 inch | Peaceful | 5 gallons |
| Blue Moscow Guppy | 2 inches | Peaceful | 10 gallons |
| Red Tuxedo Guppy | 1.5 inches | Peaceful | 10 gallons |
| Cobra Guppy | 2.5 inches | Peaceful | 15 gallons |
Zebra Danio
I recommend adding the Zebra Danio to your community aquarium as it is a peaceful and compatible fish. The Zebra Danio, scientifically known as Danio rerio, is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts due to its striking appearance and ease of care. They grow up to 2 inches in size and are known for their lively behavior. Zebra Danios can be kept in groups of five or more and are best suited for a tank of at least 20 gallons with a well-maintained water flow. They are active swimmers and enjoy darting around the tank, providing a lively display for your community aquarium. Additionally, Zebra Danios are peaceful and compatible with other non-aggressive fish species, making them an excellent choice for a peaceful community aquarium.
Dwarf Gourami
This vibrant and colorful fish adds a touch of elegance to any tank. Here are some reasons why the Dwarf Gourami is a great choice for your aquarium:
- Beautiful colors:The Dwarf Gourami comes in a variety of stunning colors, such as vibrant red, blue, and yellow.
- Peaceful temperament:This fish is known for its peaceful nature, making it an excellent addition to a community tank.
- Easy to care for:The Dwarf Gourami is a hardy fish that can adapt to various water conditions. It is relatively low-maintenance, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
- Interesting behavior:Watching the Dwarf Gourami swim gracefully and explore its surroundings can be quite captivating.
Harlequin Rasbora
The Harlequin Rasbora, also known as Trigonostigma heteromorpha, is popular for community aquariums due to its peaceful nature and vibrant colors. These small fish are native to Southeast Asia and are known for their striking red and black markings. With their calm demeanor and ability to coexist with other peaceful fish, the Harlequin Rasbora is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike. They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of swimming space and thrive in water temperatures between 73-82°F. A schooling fish by nature, it’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least six to mimic their natural behavior and reduce stress. Overall, the Harlequin Rasbora is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for fish that will add a touch of elegance to your community aquarium.
Neon Tetra
These small, vibrant fish are native to the rivers and streams of South America, specifically the Amazon basin. Here are some key features of the Neon Tetra that make them a great addition to your community aquarium:
- Colorful Appearance:The Neon Tetra is known for its vibrant blue and red stripes, which create a striking contrast against its translucent body.
- Peaceful Nature:These fish are extremely peaceful and non-aggressive, making them ideal for community tanks with other peaceful species.
- Schooling Behavior:Neon Tetras are social creatures and thrive when kept in groups of at least six. Watching them swim together in synchronized harmony is a mesmerizing sight.
- Easy to Care for:Neon Tetras are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. They prefer slightly acidic water with a pH of 6.0-7.0 and a temperature range of 72-78°F.
Adding Neon Tetras to your community aquarium will not only bring color and beauty but also a sense of tranquility and harmony.
Honey Gourami
The Honey Gourami is a peaceful community fish that can be a great addition to your aquarium. This small and colorful fish is native to Southeast Asia and is known for its peaceful nature and beautiful appearance. With its vibrant golden or honey-colored body and striking red or orange markings, the Honey Gourami adds a touch of elegance to any aquarium. It is a relatively easy fish to care for, making it suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. The table below provides a quick overview of the key characteristics of the Honey Gourami:
| Key Characteristics | Details |
| Size | Up to 2 inches (5 cm) |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years |
| Temperature Range | 72-82°F (22-28°C) |
| pH Range | 6.0-7.5 |
| Diet | Omnivorous – flakes, pellets, worms |
With its peaceful temperament and stunning appearance, the Honey Gourami is an excellent choice for a community aquarium.
White Cloud Mountain Minnow
This small, tropical fish is native to the mountain streams of China and is known for its peaceful nature and vibrant colors. Here are some reasons why the White Cloud Mountain Minnow would make a great choice for your aquarium:
- They are easy to care for and have low maintenance requirements, making them suitable for beginners.
- Their striking red and silver coloration adds a beautiful pop of color to any tank.
- They are social and active, constantly swimming and exploring their environment.
- White Cloud Mountain Minnows are known for their ability to adapt to a wide range of water conditions, making them versatile and resilient fish.
Platy Fish
Platies, scientifically known as Xiphophorus maculatus, are small, colorful freshwater fish that make a great addition to any community aquarium. These fish are native to Central America and are known for their vibrant colors and peaceful nature. Platies are available in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, and blue. They are easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner aquarists. Platies are also livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. They are social fish that prefer to live in groups, so it is recommended to keep them in schools of at least three to four individuals. With their peaceful temperament and lively colors, Platies are a delightful addition to any community aquarium.
Molly Fish
Mollies are a vibrant and lively addition to any aquarium, with their unique fin shapes and striking colors. Here are four reasons why including Molly Fish in your community tank can be a delightful experience:
- Variety of colors:Molly Fish comes in a wide range of colors, including black, silver, orange, and even Dalmatian patterns. Their vibrant hues can add a splash of excitement to your aquarium.
- Peaceful temperament:Mollyfish are known for their peaceful nature, making them ideal for community tanks. They generally get along well with other peaceful fish species, creating a harmonious environment.
- Easy to care for:Mollyfish are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner aquarists. They require a well-maintained tank with proper filtration and regular water changes.
- Active and playful:Mollyfish are active swimmers, constantly exploring their surroundings. Watching them dart around the aquarium and interact with other fish can provide endless entertainment for aquarium enthusiasts.
Pictus Catfish
Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus) are native to the rivers of South America and are known for their striking appearance and peaceful nature. They have a sleek, silver body covered in black spots, which gives them a unique and beautiful look. Pictus Catfish are social creatures that thrive in groups, so it is recommended to keep them in a small school of 3-5 individuals. They are relatively easy to care for and can adapt to a wide range of water conditions. However, it is important to provide them with plenty of hiding spots and caves in the aquarium, as they are nocturnal and enjoy exploring their surroundings. Pictus Catfish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including pellets, flakes, and frozen or live foods. They are also excellent scavengers and will help to keep the tank clean by eating leftover food and debris.
Siamese Algae Eater
The Siamese Algae Eater (Crossocheilus oblongus) is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts due to its unique ability to consume algae and keep your tank clean. Here are four reasons why the Siamese Algae Eater would be a great choice for your aquarium:
- Efficient algae control:The Siamese Algae Eater is known for its voracious appetite for algae, making it an excellent natural solution to keeping your tank free from unwanted green growth.
- Peaceful temperament:This fish is generally peaceful and gets along well with other community fish, creating a harmonious environment in your aquarium.
- Active and entertaining:The Siamese Algae Eater is an active swimmer, constantly moving around the tank, providing visual interest and entertainment for the viewers.
- Low maintenance requirements:This fish is relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention and providing hassle-free enjoyment for aquarium enthusiasts.
Cory Catfish
The Cory Catfish is popular among aquarium enthusiasts due to its peaceful nature and ability to thrive in community tanks. These small freshwater catfish, belonging to the Corydoras genus, are native to South America and are known for their charming appearance and behavior. Cory Catfish are typically bottom-dwellers, scavenging for food in the substrate of the aquarium. They have a unique feature called barbels, which resemble whiskers, helping them locate food in low-light conditions. These catfish are social creatures and should be kept in groups of at least six to ensure their well-being. They are compatible with a wide variety of fish species, making them a great addition to community tanks. Cory Catfish are also known for their ability to clean up excess food and debris, helping to maintain good water quality in the aquarium. With their peaceful nature and helpful cleaning habits, Cory Catfish is an excellent choice for any community aquarium.
Cardinal Tetra
These vibrant and beautiful fish are known for their stunning appearance and peaceful nature, making them a perfect choice for a community tank. Here are some reasons why the Cardinal Tetra is a fantastic choice for your aquarium:
- Their vibrant red and blue colors create a captivating display that adds a touch of brilliance to any tank.
- Cardinals are highly social creatures, often seen swimming together in schools. Watching them gracefully move in unison is both calming and mesmerizing.
- These small fish are incredibly peaceful and get along well with other non-aggressive species. They won’t cause any trouble in your community tank.
- Cardinal Tetras are relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginner hobbyists who are just starting to explore the world of aquarium keeping.
Incorporating Cardinal Tetras into your aquarium will not only enhance its visual appeal but also create a harmonious and serene environment for all its inhabitants.
Dwarf Pencilfish
These small, slender fish are native to the clear, slow-moving waters of South America. With their vibrant colors and peaceful nature, Dwarf Pencilfish are a beautiful addition to any community tank. They are known for their elongated body shape and distinctive markings, which resemble the tip of a pencil. These fish are generally peaceful and can coexist with other non-aggressive species. They prefer a well-planted aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and swimming space. Dwarf Pencilfish are omnivorous and will readily accept a variety of foods, including flake, freeze-dried, and frozen options. With proper care and a suitable environment, these fascinating fish will thrive in your community aquarium, providing endless enjoyment for you and your family.
Black Skirt Tetra
I highly recommend adding the Black Skirt Tetra to your community aquarium, as it is a peaceful and colorful fish that will thrive in a well-planted tank. Here are some reasons why the Black Skirt Tetra is a great choice for your aquarium:
- The striking black and white fins of this fish make for an eye-catching display, adding a touch of elegance to any tank.
- Black Skirt Tetras are social creatures that thrive in schools of 6 or more. Watching them move together in perfect synchronization is a sight to behold.
- These fish are relatively hardy and can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, making them suitable for beginner hobbyists.
- Black Skirt Tetras are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen options. They are also proficient scavengers and will help keep the tank clean by consuming leftover food and debris.
Bristlenose Pleco
The addition of a Bristlenose Pleco to your community aquarium brings a unique and beneficial presence to the tank. Bristlenose Plecos, also known as Ancistrus sp., are small freshwater fish native to South America. These peaceful bottom-dwellers are highly sought after for their ability to control algae growth in the aquarium. With their distinct bristle-like appendages on their faces, they add a fascinating visual element to the tank. Bristlenose Plecos are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for a variety of tank setups. They prefer hiding spots like caves and driftwood, so providing these in the aquarium will ensure their comfort. As omnivores, they will feed on algae, vegetables, and even small invertebrates. Their peaceful nature makes them compatible with a wide range of community fish, making them an excellent choice for any aquarium enthusiast looking to maintain a clean and harmonious tank environment.
Cherry Barb
This small, colorful fish originates from Sri Lanka and is known for its vibrant red coloration, making it a stunning addition to any tank. Here are some reasons why the Cherry Barb is a great choice for your community aquarium:
- Their bright red color adds a vibrant pop of color to the tank, creating an eye-catching display.
- Cherry Barbs are incredibly peaceful and get along well with other non-aggressive fish species. They will thrive in a community tank environment.
- These fish are relatively low maintenance and can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, making them suitable for beginner hobbyists.
- Cherry Barbs are omnivores and will readily accept a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen options. They enjoy nibbling on plants, so make sure to provide plenty of vegetation in the tank.
Chili Rasbora
Moving on to the next peaceful community fish for your aquarium, let’s explore the Chili Rasbora from the updated list of 30 suitable options. The Chili Rasbora, scientifically known as Boraras brigittae, is a small and colorful fish that is native to Southeast Asia. With its vibrant red coloration and tiny size of only 1 inch, the Chili Rasbora adds a beautiful touch to any community aquarium. These fish are peaceful and social, making them great companions for other small, non-aggressive fish. They thrive in a well-maintained aquarium with plenty of plants and hiding spots. The Chili Rasbora prefers slightly acidic water with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 and a temperature range of 72-82°F. With proper care and a suitable environment, the Chili Rasbora will flourish and bring joy to your community aquarium.
Glass Catfish
The Glass Catfish, scientifically known as Kryptopterus bicirrhis, is a unique and captivating addition to any community tank. Here are four reasons why you should consider adding Glass Catfish to your aquarium:
- Graceful and transparent appearance:The Glass Catfish’s translucent body allows you to observe its internal organs, which adds a mesmerizing touch to your aquarium.
- Peaceful and sociable nature:These fish are known for their peaceful demeanor and ability to coexist with other community fish. They are social creatures that thrive in groups, creating a harmonious environment in your tank.
- Active and entertaining behavior:Glass Catfish are constantly on the move, darting around the tank in search of food and exploring their surroundings. Their playful antics provide endless entertainment for aquarium enthusiasts.
- Low maintenance requirements:Glass Catfish are relatively easy to care for, making them an ideal choice for beginners. They adapt well to a variety of water conditions and have a robust appetite, readily accepting a range of fish foods.
Glowlight Tetra
In my experience, the Glowlight Tetra is a fantastic addition to any community aquarium. With its vibrant colors and peaceful nature, it adds a lively touch to the underwater world. This small freshwater fish, also known as Hemigrammus erythrozonus, originates from the rivers of South America. Its stunning appearance, characterized by a vibrant red-orange stripe running along its body, makes it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts.
To provide a comprehensive overview of the Glowlight Tetra, I have created a table below that outlines its key characteristics:
| Characteristic | Details |
| — | — |
| Scientific Name | Hemigrammus erythrozonus |
| Size | Up to 1.5 inches (4 cm) |
| Temperament | Peaceful and sociable |
| Water Parameters | pH: 6.0-7.5; Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C) |
When it comes to the Glowlight Tetra’s care, it is essential to create a suitable environment. Providing a well-planted aquarium with ample swimming space and dim lighting mimics its natural habitat, ensuring the fish’s well-being. Additionally, this species thrives in groups of at least six individuals, so it’s best to keep them in schools.
List Of Tropical Fish That Should Not Be Kept In A Community Tank
- Oscars (Astronotus ocellatus)
- Red-tailed Catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus)
- Jack Dempsey Cichlid (Rocio octofasciata)
- Flowerhorn Cichlid
- African Cichlids (various species)
- Tiger Barbs (Puntius tetrazona)
- Red-Bellied Piranha (Pygocentrus nattereri)
- Parrot Cichlids
- Arowana
- Electric Blue Acara (Andinoacara pulcher)
- Green Terror Cichlid (Andinoacara stalsbergi)
- Siamese Fighting Fish (Betta splendens)
- Archerfish (Toxotes spp.)
- Gar Fish (Atractosteus and Lepisosteus spp.)
- Mono Sebae (Monodactylus sebae)
With my years of experience, care, and observation, I highly recommend you do proper research on the desired species and their compatibility before adding them to your community aquarium. Choosing peaceful, compatible fish with similar care requirements will ensure a harmonious tank environment and a thriving underwater world for all inhabitants. By following these recommendations and providing proper care, you can create a stunning and vibrant community aquarium that is sure to bring joy and relaxation to your everyday life. Happy fishkeeping! So, always strive to add more balance in terms of species diversity while also considering the space they require.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Feed My Tropical Fish in a Community Tank?
- I feed my tropical fish in a community tank twice a day, using a variety of high-quality flakes and pellets. It’s important to avoid overfeeding to maintain good water quality and prevent health problems.
Can I Keep Different Species of Tropical Fish Together in a Community Tank?
- Yes, you can keep different species of tropical fish together in a community tank. However, it is important to choose species that are compatible in terms of size, temperament, and water requirements. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure their well-being.
What Should Be the Ideal Water Temperature for a Community Tank?
- The ideal water temperature for a community tank depends on the specific species of tropical fish you choose. It is important to research the temperature preferences of each species to ensure they can thrive together in your aquarium.
Are There Any Specific Plants or Decorations That Are Recommended for a Community Tank?
- There are many plants and decorations that can enhance a community tank, such as java ferns, Anubis, and driftwood. These provide hiding places and create a natural environment for the fish to thrive.
How Can I Prevent Aggression or Territorial Behavior Among the Tropical Fish in My Community Tank?
- To prevent aggression or territorial behavior among tropical fish in a community tank, provide ample hiding spaces, maintain appropriate tank size and water parameters, avoid overstocking, and choose compatible fish species. Regular monitoring and observation are also crucial.
