Freshwater Favorites

A BEGINNER AQUARIUM GUIDE

Small tank friends,
big personality.

Here are four peaceful freshwater favorites that can add color, movement, and a little cleaning help to an aquarium.

Meet the tank crew ↓

THE SHORTLIST

Best aquarium picks

These are some easygoing choices for a colorful community aquarium. Always research tank size and compatibility before buying anything.

01
🐟

COLORFUL SCHOOLER

Neon Tetra

Neon tetras are peaceful, colorful, and happiest when kept in a school of at least six.

02
🐠

BOTTOM EXPLORER

Bristlenose Pleco

This unusual algae grazer enjoys driftwood, caves, and plenty of room along the bottom.

03
🦐

TINY CLEAN-UP CREW

Cherry Shrimp

Cherry shrimp are active little scavengers that add a bright pop of red to planted tanks.

04
🐌

GLASS CLEANER

Nerite Snail

Nerite snails are calm algae eaters that will not reproduce out of control in freshwater.

COMPARE THE CREW

Aquarium care table

Freshwater aquarium animal comparison
Tank Friend Adult Size Social Need Care Level
Neon Tetra About 1.5 inches School of 6+ Beginner Friendly
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Cherry Shrimp About 1.5 inches Small colony
Bristlenose Pleco 4–6 inches Usually solo Easy–Moderate
Nerite Snail About 1 inch Solo or group Beginner Friendly
Stable, cycled water matters more than choosing the β€œeasiest” animal. colspan="4"

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TABLE FORMATTING EXAMPLE

Fishy tic-tac-toe

This table uses three equal rows and columns. Its cells also demonstrate borders, alignment, spacing, and centered content.

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AQUARIUM SURVEY

Build your dream tank

Answer a few questions about your aquarium preferences. When submitted, the form will try to open your default email application.

About you
Your aquarium

Which tank animal is your favorite?