Species

Height

6–13 in

Growth

slow

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Tie or glue the rhizome to wood or rock; burying it causes rot. Black spots under the leaves are normal spore patches and plantlets.

Height

2–4 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Attach the rhizome to hardscape and keep it uncovered. Slow leaves can collect spot algae, so avoid placing it under strong light.

Height

1–2 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

A miniature form ideal for nano tanks and tucking into rock crevices. Glue or wedge the rhizome in place rather than burying it.

Height

6–16 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Large, tough leaves suit tanks with plant-nibbling fish. Mount on wood toward the back or midground; divide the rhizome to propagate.

Height

2–4 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Attach the rhizome to rock or wood; many varieties show blue or purple sheen in moderate light. Very slow, so keep leaves clean of algae.

Height

6–16 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7

Mount the rhizome on wood in an area with good water flow. Can be slow to settle in and dislikes frequent moving.

Height

1–4 in

Growth

medium

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

5.5–8

Tie thinly with thread or mesh to hardscape. Trim regularly so lower layers do not brown and trap debris.

Height

1–3 in

Growth

slow

Temp

68–80 °F

pH

5.5–7.5

Forms layered, triangular fronds that look best with moderate light and cooler water. Spread thinly when attaching.

Height

1–4 in

Growth

slow

Temp

68–80 °F

pH

5.5–7.5

Grows in upright, twisting flame-like tufts. Attach small portions to wood or rock and trim tips to keep it dense.

Height

1–3 in

Growth

slow

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

5.5–8

A fern gametophyte with no roots; wedge or tie it onto hardscape. Pieces that break off will grow into new clumps.

Height

1–2 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

The smallest common crypt; plant separately and give it time to spread by runners. Needs more light than most crypts to stay compact.

Height

2–6 in

Growth

medium

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Spreads by runners into a grassy lawn; root tabs help. Stays shorter under stronger light.

Height

0.5–1.5 in

Growth

medium

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Plant small portions close together in fine substrate. Can carpet without CO2 but grows much faster and flatter with it.

Height

2–6 in

Growth

medium

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Split into small plugs and plant them about an inch apart. Trim to encourage runners and a denser lawn.

Height

1–2 in

Growth

slow

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

A very short hairgrass that forms a fine turf with little trimming. Plant tiny clumps densely; spreads slowly at first.

Height

0.5–1 in

Growth

fast

Temp

68–80 °F

pH

5.5–7.5

Needs strong light and CO2 or it grows upward instead of creeping. Plant single stems deep in nutrient-rich substrate.

Height

0.5–1 in

Growth

medium

Temp

68–80 °F

pH

5.5–7.5

One of the smallest carpeting plants; plant tiny portions in aqua soil with CO2 and strong light. Trim thick carpets so lower layers do not rot and lift.

Height

0.5–2 in

Growth

slow

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

A slow but undemanding carpet that stays lower in brighter light. Mostly forms single leaves submerged rather than four-leaf clovers.

Height

2–4 in

Growth

slow

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

5.5–7.5

Plant individual stems and trim the tops to push side shoots for a bushy foreground. Benefits from root tabs.

Height

1–3 in

Growth

slow

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Plant small clumps spaced apart and allow time to spread by runners. Keep it clear of debris and algae while it establishes.

Height

4–10 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–8

Often melts after planting but regrows from the roots; do not dig it up. A heavy root feeder that benefits from root tabs.

Height

4–8 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–8

A hardy, bright green crypt that tolerates a wide range of conditions. Expect some melt after planting.

Height

2–4 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Compact red stem plant for foreground-to-midground bushes. Needs strong light and good iron dosing for deep red color; grows without CO₂ but stays greener.

Height

2–8 in

Growth

fast

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Trim often to shape into dense mounds or let it creep. Replant the cuttings to fill in quickly.

Height

8–16 in

Growth

medium

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6.5–7.5

A spotted hybrid sword that stays more compact than the Amazon sword. Feed with root tabs and give it room to spread.

Height

6–20 in

Growth

medium

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Plant the bulb only halfway into the substrate. Trim lily pads that reach the surface to keep the compact underwater leaves.

Height

12–20 in

Growth

slow

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–8

Long, crinkled strap leaves make a background that needs little trimming. Tolerates harder water; root tabs help.

Height

6–16 in

Growth

fast

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Tops turn pink to red under stronger light. Trim and replant tops to build dense bushes.

Height

6–16 in

Growth

fast

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

A redder Rotala that colors best with high light and lean nitrate. Trim regularly to keep stems bushy.

Height

8–16 in

Growth

medium

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

5.5–7

Delicate leaves are easily damaged, so handle gently. Needs stable CO2, strong light and good nutrients.

Height

6–16 in

Growth

fast

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

5–6.5

Fine, needle-like leaves turn pink to red in soft, acidic water with strong light. Stunts quickly if CO2 or iron is low.

Height

8–20 in

Growth

fast

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

An adaptable stem plant whose leaves turn redder under strong light. Replant trimmed tops for a fuller group.

Height

6–16 in

Growth

fast

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Shows deep red color with high light and iron. Trim tops and replant to keep the group dense.

Height

8–16 in

Growth

slow

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Thick, upright stems that tolerate a wide range of conditions. Tops can take on a bronze tint under strong light.

Height

8–20 in

Growth

fast

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

A very fast, forgiving stem plant that helps outcompete algae. Never release it.

On the US federal noxious weed list; selling or moving it across state lines needs a permit. Check your state's rules before buying.

Height

8–20 in

Growth

fast

Temp

70–82 °F

pH

6.5–7.5

Leaf shape becomes more finely divided under stronger light. Trim often; cuttings root easily.

Height

6–16 in

Growth

medium

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Stiff stems with needle-like leaves give a bright, bushy accent. Plant stems a little apart so lower leaves get light.

Height

8–20 in

Growth

fast

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Fast, feathery stem plant that can shade others if not trimmed.

On the US federal noxious weed list and prohibited in Texas; selling or moving it across state lines needs a permit. Check your state's rules before buying.

Height

12–20 in

Growth

medium

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7

Orange-red leaves need strong light, CO2 and steady nutrients. Lower leaves drop if shaded or if nitrate runs out.

Height

4–12 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

5–6.5

Needs soft, acidic water, strong light and CO2 to thrive. Avoid disturbing the roots once established.

Height

12–24 in

Growth

fast

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

6.5–8

Spreads quickly by runners to form a tall background screen. Keep the crown above the substrate when planting.

Height

20–48 in

Growth

fast

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

6.5–8

Ribbon leaves easily reach the surface of tall tanks and trail along it. Best for larger tanks; cut long leaves at the base.

Height

12–20 in

Growth

medium

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Tall, needle-thin rushes that sway in flow. Plant in clumps and remove old yellowing stems at the base.

Height

12–20 in

Growth

medium

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6.5–7.5

A large rosette that needs space and nutrient-rich substrate or root tabs. Remove outer leaves as they age.

Height

12–24 in

Growth

fast

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Plant the bulb just at the substrate surface. It may go dormant after months of growth; leave the bulb in place to regrow.

Height

8–24 in

Growth

fast

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Plant the bulb halfway in the substrate and feed with root tabs. Trim surface pads to keep it bushy underwater.

Height

12–24 in

Growth

fast

Temp

60–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Has no true roots; float it or weigh it down. Soaks up nutrients quickly but may shed needles after moving.

Height

8–24 in

Growth

fast

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

6–8

Grows rapidly whether planted or floating, providing cover for fry and shrimplets. Thin it out often.

Height

0.5–1 in

Growth

fast

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Keep the tops dry and use gentle surface flow. Remove extras regularly so it does not block light; never release it outdoors.

Prohibited in California and Washington. Check your state's rules before buying.

Height

0.5–1 in

Growth

medium

Temp

70–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Leaves and roots turn red with strong light and low nitrate. Dislikes water splashing on its leaves and strong surface agitation.

Height

0.5–1 in

Growth

fast

Temp

64–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Hairy leaves repel water; keep surface flow calm.

Texas prohibits all Salvinia; several other Salvinia species are federal noxious weeds, so buy from a seller who labels it S. minima. Check your state's rules before buying.

Height

0.1–0.5 in

Growth

fast

Temp

60–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Multiplies extremely fast and absorbs excess nutrients. Nearly impossible to remove completely once added.

Height

1–3 in

Growth

fast

Temp

70–82 °F

pH

6.5–7.5

Needs space under the lid and humid air above the water to avoid leaf burn.

Prohibited or restricted in Alabama, California, Connecticut, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. Check your state's rules before buying.

Height

8–20 in

Growth

fast

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

A fast fern that grows planted or floating and soaks up nutrients. Plantlets sprout from the leaves; never release it outdoors, as it is invasive in parts of the South.

Height

12–24 in

Growth

fast

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6.5–7.5

A tall, broad-leaved stem plant for the back of bigger tanks. Buy from a reputable seller: it is sometimes mixed up with the restricted Hygrophila polysperma.

Height

8–18 in

Growth

slow

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6–7.5

Thick, succulent leaves that goldfish-sized nibblers tend to leave alone. Slow but very tough.

Height

8–20 in

Growth

medium

Temp

68–82 °F

pH

6.5–7.5

A compact sword plant with red-brown spotted leaves. A heavy root feeder; give it root tabs.

Height

16–24 in

Growth

medium

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6.5–7.5

Dark, crinkled leaves from a bulb, suited to tall tanks. Often rests for a few months each year; leave the bulb in place.

Height

18–48 in

Growth

slow

Temp

72–82 °F

pH

6.5–7.5

Long, wavy ribbon leaves that can reach four feet in a tall tank. Slow, but tough and rarely eaten.

Light

low

Flow

medium

Placement

any

Grows to

4–12 in

Nearly unkillable and spreads fast over rock and glass. Put it on an isolated rock so it cannot take over.

Light

medium

Flow

low

Placement

mid

Grows to

3–8 in

Its polyps pulse like tiny hands. Grows like a weed in some tanks and not at all in others; keep it on its own rock.

Light

low

Flow

medium

Placement

any

Grows to

4–10 in

Drops small branches that root and spread. A forgiving first coral.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

mid

Grows to

6–16 in

Sheds a waxy skin every few weeks and looks closed while it does. Releases chemicals that can bother stony corals; run carbon.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

mid

Grows to

5–12 in

A tough leather with finger-like lobes. Like other leathers, it can chemically irritate nearby stony corals.

Light

low

Flow

medium

Placement

any

Grows to

5–12 in

Soft and fluffy, and grows fast. Trim it back so it does not shade its neighbours.

Light

low

Flow

low

Placement

bottom

Grows to

1–3 in

Thrives in low light and low flow and multiplies steadily. Can overgrow slower corals beside it.

Light

low

Flow

low

Placement

bottom

Grows to

1–3 in

Hairy-looking mushrooms that can grow large. Keep them away from corals you do not want them to crowd.

Light

medium

Flow

low

Placement

bottom

Grows to

1–2 in

Bright, bumpy mushrooms that are more sensitive than other mushrooms. Wait for a stable tank before adding them.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

any

Grows to

2–6 in

Colourful button polyps that spread across rock. Wear gloves and eye protection when fragging: many contain palytoxin.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

any

Grows to

3–8 in

Larger than zoanthids and can spread aggressively. Often high in palytoxin: never boil its rock, and wear gloves and eye protection.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

mid

Grows to

4–10 in

Sends out long sweeper tentacles at night. Give it 6 inches from other corals; it tolerates other Euphyllia better.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

mid

Grows to

4–10 in

A favourite host for clownfish. Its sweepers sting hard, so space it well away from everything else.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

mid

Grows to

4–10 in

Branching tentacles tipped like frog eggs. Like all Euphyllia, it needs room around it for its sweepers.

Light

low

Flow

medium

Placement

bottom

Grows to

3–8 in

One of the easiest LPS corals. Grows faster if you feed it small meaty foods.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

mid

Grows to

3–8 in

Peaceful and easy for an LPS. Branches into more heads as it grows.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

bottom

Grows to

3–8 in

Hardy and colourful, with long sweepers at night. Keep other corals a few inches away.

Light

low

Flow

low

Placement

bottom

Grows to

3–6 in

Comes in striking colours and eats readily. Place it low in gentle flow.

Light

low

Flow

low

Placement

bottom

Grows to

2–5 in

Puffy red polyps that do well low in the tank. Peaceful toward neighbours.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

mid

Grows to

4–10 in

Grows as a colourful plate and fights neighbours with sweepers. Give it space to spread outward.

Light

medium

Flow

low

Placement

bottom

Grows to

4–8 in

A free-living coral that sits on the sand, not on rock. Can move and sting corals it bumps into.

Light

low

Flow

low

Placement

bottom

Grows to

4–8 in

Lives on the sand bed in low flow. Feed it small meaty foods once or twice a week.

Light

medium

Flow

low

Placement

bottom

Grows to

5–10 in

Often declines in home tanks even when everything else thrives. Not a beginner coral.

Light

high

Flow

high

Placement

top

Grows to

4–10 in

The usual first SPS: fast-growing and forgiving by SPS standards. Needs stable alkalinity.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

mid

Grows to

5–14 in

Grows in layered plates and tolerates less light than most SPS. Plates can shade corals below them.

Light

high

Flow

high

Placement

top

Grows to

4–10 in

Thin, brittle branches that break if bumped. Sensitive to swings in temperature and alkalinity.

Light

high

Flow

high

Placement

top

Grows to

4–8 in

Thick, stubby branches in pink and purple. A good step up from Montipora.

Light

high

Flow

high

Placement

top

Grows to

4–12 in

The most demanding common coral: needs strong light, strong flow and very stable chemistry. Add only to a mature, stable tank.

Light

medium

Flow

medium

Placement

any

Grows to

4–12 in

The easiest host anemone for clownfish. Add only to a tank six months or older, and cover powerhead intakes: it wanders.

Light

medium

Flow

low

Placement

bottom

Grows to

2–5 in

Stays put in the sand or a rock crevice, unlike most anemones. Clownfish rarely host in it.

Adult size

0.8 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temp

68–82 °F

pH · GH

5–7 · 1–10

Group

8+

Swims

mid

Colors best in a dense group in a planted tank with dark substrate. Leaves adult shrimp alone but will eat newborn shrimplets.

Diet: Micropredator: crushed flakes, micro pellets, baby brine shrimp

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

68–79 °F

pH · GH

6.5–7.5 · 5–15

Group

6+

Swims

mid

Shy fish that need dense planting to feel secure; males spar but rarely cause harm. Will eat shrimplets but not adult shrimp.

Diet: Micropredator: small frozen and live foods, micro pellets

Adult size

0.8 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

73–84 °F

pH · GH

5–7 · 1–12

Group

8+

Swims

mid

Borderline for shrimp: generally ignores adults but will pick off shrimplets. Best in a larger group with plenty of plants.

Diet: Omnivore: micro pellets, crushed flakes, small frozen foods

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

4.5–6.5 · 1–5

Group

8+

Swims

mid

Needs soft, acidic water to do well. Usually safe with adult dwarf shrimp but will eat shrimplets.

Diet: Micropredator: small frozen foods, micro pellets, crushed flakes

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

72–82 °F

pH · GH

7–8.2 · 8–20

Group

3+

Swims

top

Breeds readily, so plan for fry or keep males only. Borderline for shrimp: adults are usually left alone but shrimplets get eaten.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, small frozen foods

Adult size

0.8 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

68–79 °F

pH · GH

6.5–8 · 5–15

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Keep one male with several females, as males are territorial with each other. Often refuses prepared food and will hunt shrimplets.

Diet: Carnivore: live and frozen foods; often refuses dry food

Adult size

1.4 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

72–79 °F

pH · GH

5–7 · 1–10

Group

3+

Swims

top

A surface dweller that jumps, so use a tight lid. Keep in a group with more females than males; eats shrimplets.

Diet: Micropredator: small live and frozen foods, floating micro pellets

Adult size

1.5 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

72–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–15

Group

3+

Swims

mid

Males make audible croaking sounds during displays. Prefers still water and dense plants; will hunt shrimplets.

Diet: Micropredator: small frozen foods, micro pellets, flakes

Adult size

2.5 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temp

76–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 3–15

Group

1+

Swims

top

Keep only one male per tank and avoid fin-nipping or flashy long-finned tankmates. Many bettas hunt shrimp, but individual behavior varies.

Diet: Carnivore: betta pellets, frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp

Adult size

1.5 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

70–79 °F

pH · GH

5.5–7.5 · 1–12

Group

6+

Swims

mid

Add only to a fully cycled, stable tank. Often fine with adult shrimp but will eat shrimplets, so it is marked not shrimp-safe to be cautious.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, small frozen foods

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

73–81 °F

pH · GH

5–7 · 1–8

Group

8+

Swims

mid

Prefers warmer, softer water than neon tetras. Looks best in large groups under subdued light.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

1.5 in

Min tank

15 gal

Temp

73–81 °F

pH · GH

5.5–7.5 · 1–12

Group

6+

Swims

mid

Hardy and active tetra for community tanks. Keep in a group to reduce stress.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

5.5–7 · 1–12

Group

8+

Swims

mid

Tight schooling behavior shows best in a long tank. A faded red nose often signals stress. H. rhodostomus and Petitella georgiae are sold under the same name.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

73–82 °F

pH · GH

5.5–7.5 · 2–12

Group

8+

Swims

mid

Yellow color intensifies with a varied diet and dark surroundings. Keep in a group; males display to each other.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

1.8 in

Min tank

15 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

6–8 · 2–15

Group

6+

Swims

mid

A very hardy tetra that tolerates a wide pH range. Good for beginners.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

1.5 in

Min tank

15 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

5.5–7.5 · 2–15

Group

6+

Swims

mid

The orange stripe glows best over dark substrate. Peaceful and hardy in a group.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

1.4 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

73–82 °F

pH · GH

4.5–7 · 1–8

Group

6+

Swims

top

Needs soft, acidic water and small, frequent meals. Males spar but rarely injure each other.

Diet: Micropredator: small live and frozen foods, micro pellets

Adult size

1.4 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

5.5–7 · 1–8

Group

6+

Swims

top

Excellent jumpers, so a tight lid is essential. Feeds only from the surface.

Diet: Insectivore: floating flakes, small frozen and live foods

Adult size

1.8 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

72–81 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–12

Group

8+

Swims

mid

Spawns on the underside of broad leaves such as crypts. Keep in a group to show natural schooling.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

1.2 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

73–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–12

Group

8+

Swims

mid

A smaller relative of the harlequin rasbora suited to planted tanks. Keep in groups for confidence and color.

Diet: Omnivore: micro pellets, flakes, small frozen foods

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

64–78 °F

pH · GH

6.5–8 · 5–19

Group

6+

Swims

top

Very active and needs swimming length and a lid. Can nip fins of slow, long-finned fish if kept in small groups.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

1.5 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

60–72 °F

pH · GH

6–8 · 5–19

Group

6+

Swims

mid

A cool-water fish that does well in unheated rooms. Avoid pairing with tropical species that need warmer water.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

73–81 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 4–15

Group

6+

Swims

mid

One of the most peaceful barbs; males turn deep red. Keep more females than males.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods, some vegetable matter

Adult size

4 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

64–77 °F

pH · GH

6–8 · 5–19

Group

6+

Swims

mid

Active and may nibble soft or fine-leaved plants. Prefers cooler water and a large group to limit fin-nipping.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, vegetables, frozen foods

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

72–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 4–15

Group

1+

Swims

top

A gentle gourami that can be kept singly, in a pair or in a small group. Appreciates floating plants and calm water.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

15 gal

Temp

72–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 4–15

Group

1+

Swims

top

Keep only one male per tank, as males are territorial. Buy from a reputable source because this species is prone to dwarf gourami iridovirus.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

4.5 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

77–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–15

Group

1+

Swims

top

A calm centerpiece fish; keep one male or a male with females. Will eat shrimp and very small fish.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

3.5 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–15

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Keep as a pair or one male with females, with caves for each. Becomes territorial when breeding and will eat shrimp.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen foods, quality pellets

Adult size

2.5 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

80–86 °F

pH · GH

5–7 · 1–6

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Needs warm, soft, very clean water, so check that tankmates tolerate the heat. Territorial when spawning.

Diet: Omnivore: frozen foods, small sinking pellets

Adult size

3.5 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

72–79 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–15

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Hardier than the German blue ram and peaceful for a cichlid. Sifts sand for food.

Diet: Omnivore: sinking pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

4 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–15

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Provide caves; pairs become aggressive while guarding fry. Digs around plant bases, so anchor plants well.

Diet: Omnivore: sinking pellets, flakes, frozen foods

Adult size

6 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

75–84 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 3–15

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Needs a tall tank; grows taller than it is long. Adults will eat neon tetras and other small fish as well as shrimp.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

68–79 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 5–15

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Males are territorial, so keep one per tank and provide caves. Often refuses dry foods.

Diet: Carnivore: live and frozen foods

Adult size

1.6 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

72–79 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–15

Group

6+

Swims

all

Add only to a mature tank with established biofilm, as new arrivals are often underfed. Among the safest fish for shrimp.

Diet: Herbivore: biofilm, soft algae, algae wafers, blanched vegetables

Adult size

5 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

73–81 °F

pH · GH

6–7.8 · 2–20

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Provide driftwood and caves; males can be territorial with each other. Produces a lot of waste, so filter well.

Diet: Herbivore: algae wafers, vegetables, driftwood

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

72–79 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–12

Group

6+

Swims

bottom

Unlike most cories, often schools in midwater as well as on the bottom. Use soft sand and keep in a group.

Diet: Omnivore: micro pellets, small sinking foods, frozen foods

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

68–77 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–12

Group

6+

Swims

bottom

Prefers cooler water than many tropical fish. Does not hunt adult shrimp but will eat shrimplets it finds.

Diet: Omnivore: sinking pellets, wafers, frozen foods

Adult size

2.6 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 2–15

Group

6+

Swims

bottom

Tolerates warmer water, making it a common companion for rams and discus. Keep on soft sand in a group.

Diet: Omnivore: sinking pellets, wafers, frozen foods

Adult size

4 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

75–84 °F

pH · GH

5.5–7 · 1–10

Group

6+

Swims

bottom

Nocturnal and burrows in soft sand; cover filter intakes. Borderline for shrimp: ignores adults but eats shrimplets. Most sold as kuhli are Pangio semicincta.

Diet: Omnivore: sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, wafers

Adult size

2.5 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

68–75 °F

pH · GH

6.5–7.5 · 5–12

Group

3+

Swims

bottom

Needs cool, highly oxygenated water with strong flow and smooth rocks. Not suited to warm tropical setups.

Diet: Herbivore: biofilm, algae, algae wafers, small frozen foods

Adult size

6 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

75–80 °F

pH · GH

6.5–7.5 · 5–12

Group

1+

Swims

all

Eats black beard algae mainly when young and grows larger than many expect. Often confused with the aggressive Chinese algae eater; may eat shrimplets.

Diet: Omnivore: algae, wafers, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

1.2 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temp

65–80 °F

pH · GH

6.5–8 · 4–14

Group

10+

Swims

bottom

Hardy and breeds readily in a mature planted tank. Sensitive to copper and sudden changes in water parameters.

Diet: Omnivore: biofilm, algae, shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables

Adult size

1.2 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temp

65–80 °F

pH · GH

6.5–8 · 4–14

Group

10+

Swims

bottom

A color variety of the same species as cherry shrimp. Keep separate from other Neocaridina colors or offspring revert to brown.

Diet: Omnivore: biofilm, algae, shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

65–80 °F

pH · GH

6.5–7.8 · 4–14

Group

3+

Swims

bottom

An excellent algae eater that will not breed in freshwater, as larvae need brackish water. May pick at moss if underfed.

Diet: Omnivore: algae, biofilm, pellets, leftovers

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

66–74 °F

pH · GH

5.8–6.8 · 4–6

Group

10+

Swims

bottom

Needs soft, acidic water, usually RO water remineralized and an active buffering substrate. Keep water cool and stable.

Diet: Omnivore: biofilm, specialized shrimp foods, leaf litter

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

65–76 °F

pH · GH

6.5–7.5 · 4–8

Group

10+

Swims

bottom

Can hybridize with crystal red shrimp, so keep them apart if breeding pure lines. Prefers stable, moderately soft water.

Diet: Omnivore: biofilm, algae, shrimp pellets

Adult size

1.5 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temp

65–82 °F

pH · GH

7–8 · 4–15

Group

3+

Swims

bottom

Opportunistic and may prey on dwarf shrimp, shrimplets and fry. Often sold as feeders, so quarantine new arrivals.

Diet: Omnivore: pellets, leftovers, detritus

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

72–82 °F

pH · GH

6.5–7.5 · 3–15

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Needs steady current in a mature tank to catch food with its fans. A shrimp constantly picking at the substrate is likely underfed.

Diet: Filter feeder: suspended particles, powdered foods

Adult size

5 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

75–84 °F

pH · GH

6.5–7.8 · 6–15

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Despite the name it is a gentle filter feeder. Provide flow and hiding places; it is shy until settled.

Diet: Filter feeder: suspended particles, powdered foods

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temp

72–82 °F

pH · GH

7–8.5 · 6–15

Group

1+

Swims

all

A top algae eater that cannot breed in freshwater, though it leaves white eggs on hardscape. Needs hard water for shell health.

Diet: Herbivore: algae, biofilm, algae wafers

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

68–82 °F

pH · GH

7–8.2 · 8–18

Group

1+

Swims

all

Lays egg clutches above the waterline; remove them to control numbers. Mostly leaves healthy plants alone if well fed.

Diet: Omnivore: algae, leftovers, wafers, vegetables

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temp

65–80 °F

pH · GH

7–8 · 5–15

Group

1+

Swims

all

Breeds quickly when food is plentiful; population size reflects overfeeding. Eats soft algae and dead plant matter.

Diet: Omnivore: algae, detritus, decaying plants, leftovers

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temp

65–82 °F

pH · GH

6.5–8 · 5–15

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Burrows through the substrate and helps prevent anaerobic pockets. Livebearing and prolific, and hard to remove once established.

Diet: Omnivore: detritus, leftovers, algae

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

76–84 °F

pH · GH

7.2–8.5 · 4–12

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Needs warm water with a high pH; breeds slowly, producing one baby at a time. May eat soft or delicate plants if underfed.

Diet: Omnivore: algae, wafers, vegetables, detritus

Adult size

1 in

Min tank

5 gal

Temp

70–82 °F

pH · GH

7–8 · 6–15

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Hunts and eats other snails, including nerites and mystery snails, so it is useful for pest control. Safe with healthy shrimp but may scavenge weak or dead ones.

Diet: Carnivore: other snails, meaty sinking foods

Adult size

4 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

7–8 · 8–20

Group

6+

Swims

mid

Active swimmers that need a long tank; the blue-and-orange colours take a year or two to develop. Buy captive-bred: wild populations are endangered.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

2.5 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

6.5–7.5 · 5–15

Group

6+

Swims

mid

A small rainbowfish with red fins that suits a planted community. Leaves adult shrimp alone but eats shrimplets.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, micro pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

3.5 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

73–82 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 4–18

Group

6+

Swims

mid

Males grow long, flowing fins and iridescent colour. Shows best against dark substrate and floating plants.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

4 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temp

72–80 °F

pH · GH

6–8 · 5–19

Group

6+

Swims

top

Fast, tough and always moving, so it needs swimming length and a lid. Can outcompete slow fish at feeding time.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

5 in

Min tank

75 gal

Temp

64–77 °F

pH · GH

6.8–7.8 · 5–25

Group

6+

Swims

mid

Also sold as the roseline shark. Likes cooler, well-oxygenated water with strong flow. Buy captive-bred; it is endangered in the wild.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

10 in

Min tank

150 gal

Temp

77–86 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 5–12

Group

5+

Swims

bottom

Sold as small juveniles but grows slowly to 10 inches or more and can live for decades. Very prone to ich; quarantine new ones.

Diet: Omnivore: sinking pellets, frozen foods; eats snails

Adult size

5 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temp

75–86 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 3–12

Group

5+

Swims

bottom

Boisterous and social; keep a group so the squabbling spreads out. A good natural snail control.

Diet: Omnivore: sinking pellets, frozen foods; eats snails

Adult size

6 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temp

75–81 °F

pH · GH

6.5–7.5 · 5–11

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Territorial toward other bottom fish and anything that looks like it. Keep one per tank, with caves and plants to break sight lines.

Diet: Omnivore: sinking pellets, algae wafers, vegetables

Adult size

6 in

Min tank

40 gal

Temp

79–86 °F

pH · GH

6–7 · 2–15

Group

1+

Swims

top

A calm, silvery gourami, gentler than most of its size. Appreciates floating plants and still water.

Diet: Omnivore: flakes, pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

6 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temp

72–82 °F

pH · GH

6.5–8 · 5–19

Group

1+

Swims

mid

One of the milder cichlids its size, but defends a territory when breeding. Digs a little; anchor plants well.

Diet: Omnivore: pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

8 in

Min tank

75 gal

Temp

75–84 °F

pH · GH

6–7.5 · 4–15

Group

1+

Swims

mid

A personable, fairly peaceful cichlid that eats soft plants. Pair with anubias, java fern and other tough-leaved plants.

Diet: Omnivore: cichlid pellets, vegetables; eats soft plants

Adult size

6 in

Min tank

75 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH · GH

5.5–7.5 · 4–18

Group

5+

Swims

mid

Peaceful and striking in a school, but will eat almost any plant. Use tough epiphytes, or plan a mostly hardscape tank.

Diet: Herbivore: vegetables, spirulina pellets; eats most plants

Adult size

6 in

Min tank

75 gal

Temp

82–88 °F

pH · GH

6–7 · 1–8

Group

5+

Swims

mid

Needs very warm, very clean water and large, frequent water changes. The high temperature limits which plants and tank mates will cope.

Diet: Carnivore: discus pellets, frozen bloodworms and beefheart, several times a day

Adult size

12 in

Min tank

180 gal

Temp

72–82 °F

pH · GH

6.5–8 · 5–12

Group

5+

Swims

mid

Sold as 2-inch juveniles, but a school of adults needs a tank six feet long or more. Jumps when startled; keep a tight lid.

Diet: Omnivore: pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

3.5 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

The classic first saltwater fish; captive-bred ones are hardy. Keep one or a pair, and only one clownfish species per tank.

Diet: Omnivore: pellets, frozen mysis and brine

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Nearly identical to the ocellaris, with thicker black edging. Pairs readily; will host in an anemone but does not need one.

Diet: Omnivore: pellets, frozen mysis and brine

Adult size

6 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temp

75–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

The largest and meanest clownfish; females will bully most tank mates. Add it last, and keep it away from other clowns.

Diet: Omnivore: pellets, frozen mysis

Adult size

2.5 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

One of the milder damsels, but still territorial once settled. Very hardy; not a fish to use for cycling a tank.

Diet: Omnivore: pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Cheap and tough, and grows nasty with age. Hard to catch once you regret it, so think before adding one to a peaceful reef.

Diet: Omnivore: pellets, frozen foods

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Groups tend to dwindle as the dominant fish picks off the rest. Keep one, or five or more in a tank of 75 gallons and up.

Diet: Omnivore: pellets, frozen mysis

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Slow and calm. Buy captive-bred: wild populations are endangered. Pairs are fine; adult groups often fight.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen mysis, pellets

Adult size

3.5 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Hangs in one spot near cover and comes out more at dusk. Can be kept as a small group in a larger tank.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen mysis, pellets

Adult size

4 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Perches at a burrow on the sand bed, and often pairs with a pistol shrimp. Territorial toward other bottom gobies.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen mysis, pellets

Adult size

1.5 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

A tiny fish that perches among branching corals. Good for nano reefs.

Diet: Carnivore: small frozen foods

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Shy and a notorious jumper, so a lid or mesh cover is essential. Keep one per tank unless you have a mated pair.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen mysis and brine

Adult size

2 in

Min tank

10 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

A small cleaner fish, usually captive-bred. Short-lived, around two years.

Diet: Carnivore: small frozen foods; picks parasites off other fish

Adult size

6 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Keeps sand spotless by sifting it constantly. Often starves in a new or small tank without enough life in the sand.

Diet: Carnivore: sifts sand for food; supplement with frozen foods

Adult size

5 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Grazes algae off rock and glass. Can starve once the algae is gone, and fights with other blennies.

Diet: Herbivore: film algae; nori once it runs out

Adult size

2.5 in

Min tank

20 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

bottom

Small, curious and full of personality. A good blenny for a nano reef.

Diet: Omnivore: algae, frozen foods

Adult size

5 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

all

Swims in open water more than most blennies. Keep one per tank.

Diet: Omnivore: frozen foods, algae

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

The mildest dottyback, and usually captive-bred. Eats bristleworms and small pests.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen mysis, pellets

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Claims a cave and guards it. Peaceful with other species, territorial with its own.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen mysis, pellets

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Unusually, can be kept as a small group. Hardy and easy to feed.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen mysis, pellets

Adult size

3 in

Min tank

30 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

A great pest hunter that can turn bossy toward shy fish added after it. Jumps, so keep a lid on.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen foods; hunts pests like flatworms

Adult size

4.5 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Buries itself in sand at night, so it needs a sand bed. Jumps; keep a lid on.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen foods, pellets

Adult size

5 in

Min tank

70 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

An active open-water swimmer that needs length to swim. A notorious jumper, so a lid is essential.

Diet: Carnivore: frozen mysis, pellets, several times a day

Adult size

5 in

Min tank

125 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

mid

Needs frequent small feedings, so an auto-feeder helps. Keep one male with several females.

Diet: Carnivore: small frozen foods at least three times a day

Adult size

8 in

Min tank

100 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

all

Often sold into small tanks, but needs a long one: about six feet. Aggressive toward other tangs of similar shape.

Diet: Herbivore: nori and algae sheets daily, plus frozen foods

Adult size

7 in

Min tank

75 gal

Temp

74–82 °F

pH

8–8.4

Group

1+

Swims

all

One of the best algae grazers and milder than most tangs. Still needs plenty of swimming room.

Diet: Herbivore: grazes film algae; supplement with nori