Let’s face it—fishkeeping can be intimidating. Between those high-tech aquariums with all the bells and whistles, endless filter options, and the fear of turning your living room into a watery mess, it’s easy to think you need a PhD in marine biology to keep aquatic pets.
But here’s the good news: not all underwater critters are divas demanding penthouses. Some are delightfully low-maintenance, thriving just fine without a high-budget aquarium setup that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie.
In this article, we’re diving into the wonderful world of aquatic creatures that are as easygoing as a lazy Sunday. These swimmers, crawlers, and floaters are perfect for beginners, minimalists, or anyone who wants a splash of underwater life without the high-maintenance drama.
15. Betta Fish
Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are a popular choice for beginners. Their striking colors and flowing fins make them a beautiful addition to any space. Betta fish are hardy and can live in smaller, non-filtered bowls, which makes them ideal for those without fancy aquarium setups.
However, it’s crucial to ensure the water is kept clean, as Betta fish are sensitive to poor water conditions. Regular water changes and a stable temperature are essential for their health.
These fish are also territorial and should be housed alone to prevent fighting. Feeding them a balanced diet of Betta pellets and occasional treats like bloodworms will keep them healthy and vibrant.
14. Cherry Shrimp
These small, colorful creatures are excellent at cleaning algae and detritus, making them great for maintaining a clean tank environment.
These shrimp are sociable and can live in small groups, adding a lively dynamic to your aquatic setting. They prefer planted environments, which can be easily achieved with low-maintenance plants like Java moss.
Cherry shrimp are easy to care for, requiring only a basic container with dechlorinated water and a stable temperature. They are relatively peaceful, making them suitable for community setups without aggressive tank mates.
13. African Dwarf Frog
These delightful amphibians are both easy to care for and entertaining to watch. They thrive in small, simple setups with just enough space to swim and breathe.
These frogs require access to the surface for air, so a half-filled tank works well. They enjoy hiding spots, so adding some rocks or caves can enhance their habitat.
Feeding them is straightforward, as they consume a variety of foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. With minimal care, African dwarf frogs can be a charming addition to your aquatic collection.
12. Marimo Moss Ball
Marimo moss balls are not only unique but also incredibly low-maintenance. These fascinating green spheres are actually a form of algae, and they thrive in simple water-filled containers.
Requiring only indirect sunlight and occasional water changes, Marimo moss balls are perfect for those seeking an effortless aquatic addition. Their gentle, rolling movement in water provides a calming aesthetic.
These moss balls are also considered good luck in some cultures, adding a unique touch to any room. They can be a fun and interactive way to introduce children to aquatic life.
11. Guppies
Guppies are lively, colorful fish that are well-suited for beginners. They are known for their vibrant variations and ease of care, making them a popular choice for those with basic setups.
Guppies thrive in small tanks with clean water and a stable temperature. They are social creatures and do best in groups, adding a burst of color and activity to your space.
Feeding guppies is easy, as they can consume flakes or pellets. With their small size and lively nature, guppies are a delightful and engaging choice for any beginner aquarist.
10. Mystery Snail
Known for their vibrant shell colors, these snails are easy to care for and quite entertaining to watch.
They thrive in a variety of tank conditions and are excellent at cleaning up algae and leftover food, making them great tank companions. Mystery snails require a tank with a secure lid, as they have a tendency to explore.
These snails enjoy a diet of algae wafers and fresh vegetables. With their slow, deliberate movements, mystery snails add a touch of tranquility to any aquarium setting.
9. Zebra Danio
Zebra danios are hardy and active fish that are perfect for simple setups. Their striking horizontal stripes make them an attractive addition to any tank.
These fish are social and do best in groups, which keeps them active and engaging. Zebra danios are tolerant of a range of water conditions, making them ideal for beginners.
They are easy to feed, accepting most flake or pellet foods. With their energetic swimming patterns, zebra danios bring a lively atmosphere to any aquarium.
8. Java Fern
Here’s a very popular aquatic plant that can thrive without soil or complex setups. They are perfect for adding greenery to your aquatic environment.
Requiring minimal care, Java ferns can be attached to rocks or driftwood, making them versatile decoration options. Their slow growth rate and hardy nature make them suitable for beginners.
These plants require only low to moderate light and occasional fertilization. With their lush green leaves, Java ferns provide a natural and calming element to any aquarium.
7. Endler’s Livebearer
Endler’s livebearers are small, colorful fish that are closely related to guppies. They are perfect for beginners due to their hardy nature and low maintenance requirements.
These fish thrive in small tanks with clean water and plenty of swimming space. Their vibrant colors and active behavior make them a lively addition to any setup.
Endler’s livebearers are easy to feed with standard flake foods. Their peaceful demeanor and small size make them suitable for community tanks.
6. Ghost Shrimp
These translucent shrimp are excellent at keeping tanks clean by eating algae and leftover food.
Ghost shrimp are easy to care for and can live in simple, unfiltered tanks. They prefer a habitat with hiding spots, which can be created with rocks or plants.
These shrimp are a great addition to any aquarium, adding an intriguing element with their see-through appearance. They do well with peaceful tank mates and are easy to feed, making them ideal for beginners.
5. White Cloud Minnow
White cloud minnows are small, peaceful fish that thrive in a variety of water conditions. Their silver bodies with hints of red and gold make them a visually appealing choice.
These minnows are hardy and easy to care for, making them suitable for beginners. They do well in small tanks with clean water and enjoy swimming in schools.
Feeding them is straightforward, as they will accept most flake foods. With their vibrant colors and peaceful nature, white cloud minnows add a touch of serenity to any aquarium.
4. Killifish
A very easy-to-care-for species, the killifish is ideal for simple setups. Known for their stunning colors, they can brighten up any tank.
These fish are hardy and can adapt to a range of water conditions. They are best kept in pairs or small groups, providing a lively dynamic in your aquarium.
Killifish are easy to feed, accepting a variety of foods like flakes, pellets, and live foods. With their striking appearance and active behavior, they are a captivating choice for any fish enthusiast.
3. Pygmy Corydoras
The gentle nature and small size of these fish make them ideal for simple setups.
These fish are easy to care for, requiring a soft substrate and clean water. They enjoy being in groups, which encourages their natural behavior.
Feeding Pygmy Corydoras is easy, as they accept a variety of foods, including sinking pellets and live foods. With their playful antics and endearing appearance, they make a delightful addition to any aquarium.
2. Platy Fish
Platy fish are vibrant and easy-going, making them a favorite among beginners. Their variety of colors and patterns add a cheerful touch to any tank.
These fish are hardy and can adapt to different water conditions, thriving in small tanks with clean water. Platies are social and do well in groups, adding life and movement to your aquarium.
Feeding them is straightforward, as they accept flakes and pellets. With their friendly nature and beautiful colors, Platy fish are a surefire way to brighten up any aquatic setup.
1. Snails
Snails come in various shapes and sizes, each adding unique interest to your tank.
Aquatic snails are excellent cleaners, helping to manage algae and debris. They thrive in a variety of water conditions and require minimal maintenance.
Feeding snails is simple, as they can consume algae, vegetables, and prepared snail foods. With their slow and steady movements, snails provide a calming presence in any aquarium.