The majority of children love animals, and they’ll most likely desire an animal as a pet. Although dogs and cats require plenty of time and attention, pet fish are easy to care for and won’t consume a lot of your time.
Pet fish are a favorite of children. They are excellent at learning and exploration. They are available in all sizes, colors, and shapes, which will really stimulate the imagination.
Best pet fish for kids are simple to take care of, meaning that kids are able to get involved and be part of taking care of the fish.
In terms of fascination, it’s impossible not to be fascinated as you watch a shoal of lively fish swim around the aquarium.
If you’ve decided to purchase a fish, you have to choose the species you want to purchase. It’s based on several aspects like your previous experiences with fishkeeping and the kind of fish that your kids would like to.
Top 21 List of The Best Pet Fish for Kids
We’ve compiled a top 21 list of the best pet fish for kids. Your children will be enthralled taking care of each of these species of fish that are popular.
1. Guppies
Children are fascinated by colors. They are among the most attractive aspects of fish, therefore children will be fascinated by the variety of colors that are splashing around in an aquarium.
Guppies can be a great source of color for your aquarium. That’s why they’re often referred to as “Rainbow Fish.” They originate out of South America, which is an important source for other colorful fish as well.
There is a variety of Guppy to pick from, each having its distinct colors, patterns, and shapes, meaning you can choose your ideal fish. The reason which makes Guppies more attractive is the fact that they’re so simple to keep and care for, which is crucial when you’re trying to get youngsters in the aquarium.
Every fish will grow to the size of between 0.6 and 2.4 inches, which means you can maintain only a small number in tanks as small as 5 gallons. Tanks are simple to build in a way that mimics the species in its natural habitat.
Make sure their habitat is clean and provide them with a nutritious diet to ensure that your fish are well. This will reduce the risk of coming across an illness. Guppies are omnivores. As such, they will consume animals and plants. The best-dried food will supply some of the essential nutrients however this should be supplemented by fresh or frozen food items.
Guppies like being around their own species So the bigger the number of shoals you keep the more content they’ll be. A large number of people will allow them to display their colors as well.
2. Neon Tetra
Another species with a lot of colors that the majority of people encounter at some moment or at a different time. They are among the most frequently caught fish in the market. Each fish has a blue and red stripe running in a horizontal direction across the body. These colors are called neon (hence its name) and sparkle brightly beneath aquarium lighting.
Be wary of assuming them with Cardinal Tetra that has similar coloring. Neon Tetras are shoaling animals that require the company of others to be happy and relaxed. A shoal can travel around the tank with others and exaggerate their colors and movement.
They are extremely lively and social and children will be entertained for long hours. They are peaceful fish that like to be in the company of other species, too. You can choose some calm tankmates of a similar size and size to begin an aquarium for your community.
A majority of the fish listed here are suitable for use. It is easy to care for them. The conditions they prefer in their tank are the same as those of many other fish in aquariums, so installing the tank shouldn’t be an issue. They love plenty of space for swimming and areas with plants.
They can only grow to 1.5 inches; you can keep them in 10-gallon aquariums or bigger.
Feed them a mix of dry foods as well as live or frozen food. This will ensure that these omnivores are supplied with the essential nutrients and protein they require.
3. Angelfish
Angelfish can’t compete with Guppies or Neon Tetras in terms of color, however, they are regarded in the category of most stunning freshwater species due to their shape. They’re nearly triangular in shape as an archer’s head. Their fins are broad and long and flow behind them when they swim. They can grow to six inches long, and 8 inches in height.
It’s possible that I was somewhat harsh on their color. Angelfish are produced with a wide range of colors and patterns, therefore there are numerous species that could give the most vibrant species a run for its cash.
Being omnivores, these species can consume a variety of fish and aquarium food. In the wild, they typically eat small prey, therefore purchasing smaller frozen or live foods (like the brine shrimp and daphnia) is the best option to provide a nutritious diet.
Angelfish is a species of Cichlid that is native to the Amazon River in South America and aims at replicating the environment of this river within your aquarium. It’s not too difficult. The tank must be a minimum of 20 gallons and be tall enough to allow for the height of the person.
Let some areas be left accessible for swimming, but give certain areas with densely planted plants also. It’s possible to see your Angelfish display a small amount of aggression from time to time. It’s not a major issue. However, by selecting the correct tankmates, you’ll be able to rest assured that your pet is secure.
Select a species that won’t harass or suffer from bullying by your Angelfish. Other Cichlids such as Discus, Jack Dempsey Cichlid, and Bolivian Rams will work, however fish like Mollies and Dwarf Gouramis are excellent choices as well.
4. Kuhli Loaches
Kuhli Loaches have a distinctive style and appearance as well. They sport a slim shape similar to an eel’s body, however, it is only 3-5 inches. Along their length, there are 10-15 vertical dark stripes with yellow between. On their heads, there are 4 pairs of barbels which they use to locate food. They’re extremely delicate, and you’ll require an underlying material that is soft to avoid damage to them.
Another reason to have the soft substrate is that they like to burrow. They are able to do this only on a substrate that is smooth and easy to move such as sand. They spend the majority of the day digging and then coming out to feed at night.
Keep Kuhli Loaches with a few calm, active middle-water swimmers to ensure there’s plenty of water activity. Kids will be fascinated by exploring in search of their Kuhli Loaches. It’s thrilling when you spot it. If they’re not hiding, there are additional fish at the aquarium for kids to observe.
What’s this? This Asian species isn’t a difficult species to take care of. Since they are omnivores They’ll consume whatever you’ve added to the tank when it is lowered towards the bottom. It’s important that you keep your tank fresh and oxygenated.
A top-quality filter can assist in this. Clean up any algae you see and do periodic water changes. Air pumps are a great method of oxygenating the water too.
5. Yoyo Loach
The yoyo loach is known under a variety of names, like its Almora Loach or Pakistani Loach (because it originates from Pakistan). Yoyo Loach can be the most common name due to the distinct dark bands that run across their bodies that create the Y-O-Y-O pattern.
Although the design is appealing, their personalities are significant to many aquarists. You are able to distinguish the difference by their behavior which is why kids become distinct from each other. They’re always on the hunt for food, and therefore you can be certain that there will be activity at the lower areas within your tank.
Yoyo Loaches generally keep to themselves, even though they’re curious and can engage with other people. They’ll speak up when needed, but be peaceful the majority time. The majority of tropical fish species make excellent tank mates. Be sure to ensure that they’re not slow swimmers so that they can swim out of Yoyo Loaches in the event that they become noisy.
Keep them in a single tank as well as in groupings of 5-6 to keep them from competing with them. They can grow up to 2.5 inches (sometimes bigger) and one fish should have at the very least a 20-gallon tank. Choose a smooth substrate to guard their barbels. Give them a few caves and plants to provide them with places to hide in.
It is possible to use all aquarium food sources to feed this multi-species animal. Yoyo Loaches eat whatever they are able to find upon the bottom.
6. Dwarf Gourami
The dwarf gourami is part of the Osphronemidae family, which means that it is a useful organ. It’s known as the labyrinth organ and it’s used to draw oxygen into the air. This is something you could teach to your children. They can observe it live, for instance, Dwarf Gourami may occasionally go toward the surface of the ocean to breathe.
It’s not done every day, however, since the species also have gills. While swimming around the aquarium they make for a spectacular sight. They sport a round and flat body that is topped by massive fins and impressive colors.
There are a variety of designs and colors available. They are usually red and blue, or spotted or striped.
Another reason to buy them is that they are extremely durable.
The care for them is easy and they’ll be fine even if the conditions of the tank shift slightly so long as you can correct it swiftly. They can grow in size to 4.5 inches; a pair can be kept in the size of a 10-gallon tank. They’re happy with their own species, however, they can be kept with other species, too. They can be a good fit with other species when they are calm and don’t touch fins.
There are many other varieties of Gourami available as well if the Dwarf Gourami style isn’t your thing.
7. Mollies
The next fish to be discussed is the molly known as a live-bearing species of fish. Their eggs grow internally and are born young. If you’re looking to set up a breeding tank for your children then this could be the most suitable species to select. They have a tendency to mate frequently and often do this in captivity, even when you’re not trying to force them to.
If you don’t want breeding opportunities, these fish can be a wonderful addition to an aquarium that is a community. They are peaceful fish that get along well with other fish of the same size, temperament and. Keep the fish in small groups, no less than four.
Wild, they’d be with their own species. A small group of this could fit into 10-gallon aquariums. The freshwater aquarium should have lots of plants that can serve as shelter. They can be useful for spawning, too.
Mollies are another animal to feed. They consume both animal and plant matter, making them the best aquarium food items. The diet of an aquarium should be healthy live food, especially during mating.
We’re not even talking about how amazing Mollies look. The colors are vibrant. You can choose the color you like because they’ve been extensively bred.
There are many different kinds of Molly Fish. This includes those that are the Sailfin Molly (which has a large dorsal fin) and the Lyretail Molly (with a caudal fin that narrows to two points, which trail in the direction of).
8. Swordtails
Swordtails are yet another livebearer species that is very easy to breed. They are closely connected to Mollies or Platy Fish. They are all part of the family of Poeciliidae. It is easy to identify male Swordtails because without a doubt their tails are shaped like swords.
The lower part of the caudal fin has a pronounced elongation. Females don’t have this. The natural populations of North, as well as Central America, are olive-green colored however, nowadays there are a variety of colors available to choose from due to selective breeding.
For beginners, it is a pleasure to enjoy Swordtails because they are easy to take care of. When they are in your aquarium, all you need to do is to maintain the tank tidy and feed them regularly. They will eat everything. The minimum tank size for them is 15 gallons because they can increase as high as 6.5 inches.
You must keep them in small groups even though they may not have to shoal. Limit one male to each female to avoid aggressive behavior.
Fighting could result in injuries or even death, so keep an eye out for this kind of behavior. Swordtails love being around other fish. They are social creatures.
They exhibit a variety of fascinating behaviors, and kids are sure to enjoy watching them. A tranquil community aquarium is an ideal location to keep these fish. If they’re around noisy fish, they’ll turn timid and seek refuge.
Your aquarium must have open swimming areas and densely established areas. The latter is essential to spawning.
9. Clown Fish
In the past, we’ve focused on freshwater fish only; however, there are plenty of great opportunities for marine fish.
Most well-known is the Clownfish.
Children will recognize this species from the movie Finding Nemo, so Clownfish will probably be one of their favorites already. It can be kept at home, which is why it is a good option for those who are new to the hobby and haven’t started an aquarium for marine fish before.
You can recreate the natural diet of your pet by providing lots of meaty food items like Mysis Shrimp and Brine Shrimp. A portion of their diet could be pellets or flakes, that will have a variety of nutrients. The tank must be a minimum of 20 gallons for these 4-inch fish.
It is recommended to keep Clownfish in small groups. In order to establish a peaceful community, consider adding some Damselfish or Blennies. The ideal tank will have Anemones however, they can be more difficult to maintain. If you’re new in the world of marine life, maybe consider other corals or even rocks before you go.
Clownfish have a bold color and can brighten your aquarium. The color is a vibrant orange, with three white stripes, and black borders on their fins.
10. Pajama Cardinalfish
It’s a unique species that attracts people by its bizarre appearance and behavior. It’s another calm marine fish that is thriving within a group.
The first thing that you’ll be able to notice is the odd patterns. They sport yellow heads and dorsal/pectoral fins. They also have red polka dots on the rear and a black vertical bar between them. Also, there is the red-eye.
People are usually interested in their actions too. They tend to be active late at night (hence their big eyes) which is why they are often sitting in a secluded area near rock formations, caves, and caves.
Keep pajama Cardinalfish together in groups of five or more. They tend to be tranquil, but they may exhibit aggression toward one another when breeding together.
The most peaceful marine fish make excellent tank companions. The tank should include places to hide however, there should also be plenty of space for swimming. It is possible to incorporate corals if you feel confident.
They can be fed high-quality dried food. If they aren’t accepting them, then you can try live shrimp. Both are essential to ensure a healthy diet. Although they can have a mate in captivity there are some species that can be bred. Cardinalfish are mouthbrooders. That means that the male keeps eggs inside his mouth during the time they grow.
11. Platy Fish
The tranquil Platies are available in many shades like blue, red, and black. They’re often available with gold as well and that’s why they are often confused with goldfish. They are often called moonfish and are extremely active. They also get married quickly, easily and enjoy having baby fish–hundreds at once actually.
Strong and live-bearing, this fish comes in various kinds. The platy is thought of as being among the best beginner fish. The platy can live in smaller tanks than the swordtail, however, they love to be with friends and are very friendly and active. Place some plants into their water, and you’ll be ready to go. They consume fish flakes and, just like the majority of live-bearing fish species, are omnivores.
12. Goldfish
Goldfish are relatively easy to look after Which makes them ideal for children. Originating from Asia. These little ones are calm and interact with other fish. They need a clean water aquarium and prefer temperatures that are around 63 degrees Fahrenheit. They can grow quite fast and produce a lot of poop. Make sure to invest in an in-line filter for your tank. They also enjoy small areas to relax and hide. So, you can add some items or vegetation to your aquarium.
13. Betta Fish
It is believed that the Betta is among the most sought-after fish species in the US.
Colorful and bright, they are able to draw interest. If two males are swimming in an aquarium, that can cause trouble.
They are available in any large or small chain pet shop. They can also be picked for yourself at a low cost. The most exotic ones that are sold in mass quantities cost around $20 at the very most.
Many old fish enthusiasts have acknowledged that Betta fish was the fish that brought the interest in the sport. This could be a reference to two things:
- Betta fish are simple to take care of and offered enough enjoyment to enjoy the sport for a long time.
- Betta fish have an excellent probability of being maintained in a healthy manner.
They’re an excellent choice for children and young children since they’re simple to maintain.
Males will battle until one dies. If you have some betas, make sure you only take only one of them home.
Be cautious when placing these fish alongside other fish as they may eat young of the other species.
They also leap out from into the ocean, therefore if you decide to purchase one, make sure that you have a tank cover on your tank. They are fantastic for when they’re on their own, but not when they’re with males or smaller fish.
14. “Blue-Green Chromis” (marine/salt waters)
The friendly fish typically interact with all kinds of fish as well as they are able to get along with each other. They are deep-shaped of blue and green and are stunning. They are native to their home in the Indian Ocean, they require saltwater tanks. If you are able to get these tanks, you should try to purchase one or two, as they are more comfortable in groups or schools.
15. Cherry Barbs
Barbs are tough fish that are great for children and beginners to the hobby of aquaculture. They come in a variety of different colors and you are able to pick and choose which you prefer. There are some specific specifications, but they closely overlap. If you’re thinking of mixing barbs, make certain to study the specific requirements for each species’ habitat prior to throwing them into.
The most well-known barb (and the one I consider to be among my favorites) can be described as the Cherry Barb. This is a thin Barb when compared to other Barbs that are in the group. They have a slimmer profile and appear to be able to swim faster. They usually are characterized by a gold strip that runs across their bodies, which creates a distinctive appearance.
Cherry Barbs need a larger tank (preferably 40 gallons) with plenty of plants, real or fake. It is also possible to add stones, wood, and driftwood to complete the look of your tank. If you are planning to build this tank a huge project and you want to unleash your creativity, picking a Barb is the best option. They are fond of a lot of objects to hide behind and also require lots of room to move around. They’re typically shy and tend to stay in the shadows when food is not available.
Cherry Barbs are tranquil fish that can be found with a variety of other kinds of fish. You can keep them in a group. The water conditions are more temperate, ranging between 75-80 F with an average pH of 6.0-7.0.
As with all fish, you’ll require a high-quality power filter. The HOB filter is a necessity. It is also necessary to have an electric heater for those who are in a climate that is cooler too. It is essential to have good quality water to ensure the highest quality of your fish.
They are also available in a wide range of colors- including the tiger, the green tiger Denison, spotted, and spanner. You can mix and match a few of them, however, it is important to conduct the necessary research to ensure that their requirements are similar.
Barbs require big tanks, and perhaps a bit more TLC to properly raise. This is obviously a larger initial cost. But, once you have all set up together with your child it will be an enjoyable project to be amazed by and admire. Imagine a full-grown tank with multi-colored barbs flitting around when it’s time for a meal. It’s worth it.
16. Rosy Red Minnows
This is among the least rated fish in the market.
Why?
Since it’s the feeder for fish. It’s not difficult to go into a chain pet store and find thousands upon thousands of tiny swimmers crammed in a small 10-gallon tank. They’re cheap to purchase and some retailers provide discounts for bulk orders.
They’re a fish that’s often overlooked. First, they take care of their fry and offspring. Rosy Reds are very easy to breed (which is likely the reason they’re considered feeder fish) and will take charge of their fry instead of eating them as do the majority of other species.
Another great feature of Rosy Reds is that if you breed the breed yourself, you’ll obtain a beautiful breed of minnows. The ones you can buy at the pet stores are usually dull and boring. If you buy a lot of them and mix them, you could have some beautiful coloration.
Minnows can be found in almost every size aquarium since they’ve become used to it. It’s possible to have 3-4 minnows in the space of a 10-gallon tank, provided you have a quality filter running.
You’ll require a HOB filter and a decent heater, but aside from this, they don’t need much. They’ll eat fish foods that are common and don’t have any specific equipment or housing requirements. They’re simply happy you stopped them from being eaten. Thanks for the effort.
Since Rosy Reds are feeder fish, you can purchase them at a bargain. They’re only one cent each in pet stores that are big box stores.
They’re very simple to look after and every kid can have several and save a few minnows. They provide a reason to live and a passion while at the same time. This makes them among the most kid-friendly fish that you are able to get.
17. Corydoras Catfish
The gentle and calm character of Corydoras catfish is what makes them a perfect beginner fish. The native populations of the fish have been documented throughout streams and lakes across South America.
Corys can reach an average dimension of 2.5 inches and are considerably smaller than the other species of catfish. Corys’ small size allows them to be kept in tanks as small as a 10-gallon tank.
They are a schooling species and five of them would be the most comfortable in a 20-gallon tank.
One interesting aspect of corys is that they’re often seen dancing in water areas that have a strong flow. However, there must be areas that have a weak current in which the fish are able to relax.
Selective breeding has created cories extremely hardy, however, they require a clean aquarium. Test kits can be purchased for your children so that they can keep track of the levels of certain elements such as ammonia and Nitrates.
18. Bristlenose Pleco
Bristlenose plecos are a great choice for small settings and require minimal treatment. They are part of the catfish family and are native to the Amazon river system.
They’ve been dubbed “suckerfish” because of their habits of eating algae. These fish will play an essential cleaning function in any aquarium and remove any algae.
Bristlenose plecos generate lots of waste as they spend their time searching for food. Make sure to equip your aquarium with the sponge filter as well as a hanger on the back for efficient filtering.
The substrate of the natural environments of plecos is composed of clay, gravel, and dirt. Plant low-maintenance living plants, driftwood, and caves to replicate the natural habitat of the fish.
The plecos are sure to appreciate algae wafers. You should choose the ones that sink because they are at the bottom of the tank. Add blanching zucchini and shelled beans and broccoli. You can also add cucumber medallions.
19. Tiger Barbs
Tiger barbs are lively, entertaining, and vibrant and make wonderful pets for kids. They have a gold-colored hue and a black stripe runs around the body.
Tiger barbs usually extend to three inches. They can easily be housed in the space of a 20-gallon tank. Maintain 5 or 6 of them to help them in their schooling.
They’re usually found swimming in a frenzied manner across the aquarium. Your youngster will be captivated by their lively behavior.
Tiger barbs enjoy densely planted aquariums that are adorned with driftwood, stones, and other ornaments. Offer a varied and diverse all-animal diet, so that barbs of tigers can show stunning colors.
20. Zebra Danio
The Zebra Daniel (zebrafish) is calm and social. Your kid will enjoy a great time caring for them.
They sport a sparkling gold/silvery coloring as well as five blue lines that extend from the head up to their caudal fin.
Danios can grow up to 2 inches and you could keep them within the size of a 10-gallon aquarium.
You can make use of the sand substrate as a substrate and also include many live plants such as Amazon Sword and Java fern.
Zebra danios are sure to appreciate the algae-based flake diet, which is supplemented with live foods and greens.
21. Gouramis
Gouramis come with a distinctive design and are available in a variety of types to pick from.
Flame dwarf gouramis, for instance, have vibrant red color with a gradient of orange as the blue one shines with a bright blue color.
Gouramis are fond of free-floating plants such as water weeds, hornwort, or floating plants like forbgits that they can hide in.
Gouramis can be housed in the size of a 10-gallon tank, as they grow up to 4 inches. Make sure to use a dark substrate to let the vibrant colors of the fish pop out.
You should ensure that you purchase gouramis that aren’t growing large. Avoid the habit of kissing or smacking gouramis or giant gourami since they increase to a huge size.
Summary
Engaging children in fishkeeping can be an enjoyable experience. You can gain a lot while having amusement as well.
Fishkeeping can teach children a variety of aspects of life, and they can also observe concepts such as the nitrogen cycle at work.
You’re likely to have seen certain best pet fish for kids that your kids might enjoy, or perhaps they’ve mentioned their top fish. This list of 21 species on this list are excellent options, however, there are plenty of other species that you can choose from.
If you’re looking to engage your kids in their care You’ll need robust species that are easy to take care of. If you’re an experienced aquarist and are responsible for the majority of maintenance, then these bright and vibrant species are extremely popular with kids.
Whichever you decide to choose an aquarium, it will create an excellent attraction that the entire family will love.
| GO TO HOME PAGE | CLICK HERE |
