Did you know that not all home aquariums are set up the same way? There are three main types, each offering unique benefits and challenges. Let us break down the different types of fish tanks for your home.
Freshwater Aquariums
Freshwater aquariums beautifully mimic the diverse ecosystems found in rivers, lakes, and streams around the world, and are a common occurrence in the fish keeping hobby. One of the many reasons people choose freshwater is the ease of maintenance, as it requires less frequent water changes and fewer specialised additives, making it ideal for beginners. Freshwater setups are also more affordable, allowing aquarists all the freedom to create something unique without breaking their bank.
10 Best Freshwater Fish for Beginners
- Angelfish
- Bettas
- Catfish
- Cichlids
- Goldfish
- Tetras
- Guppies
- Kuhli Loaches
- Mollies
- Siamese Algae Eaters
Pros
- Ease of maintenance
- Wide variety of fish and plants
- Freshwater fish are easier to feed when you go on holiday (automatic feeders)
- Breeding opportunities
- Improves mental health
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Less vibrant and exotic fish options
- No coral options
Saltwater Aquariums
Saltwater/marine aquariums are known for their stunning diversity of fish and “living” decorations, bringing a part of the ocean into your home. It’s not recommended for beginners due to the maintenance and complex water chemistry. Setting up your saltwater aquarium is also more expensive due to the special equipment needed to keep your tank running at optimal conditions.
Most Popular Saltwater Fish
- Bicolor Blenny
- Tangs (Blue, Yellow)
- Boxfish
- Clownfish
- Damselfish
- Dotty Back
- Royal Gramma
- Saltwater Angelfish
- Saltwater Gobies
- Six Line Wrasse
Pros
- Stunning diversity of marine life (exotic, bright colours, all shapes and sizes)
- Aquascaping opportunities with live rock formations, corals, and reef structures
Cons
- Very expensive (equipment, coral, fish, lighting)
- Maintaining optimal water conditions can be challenging
- Lots of water changes
- Sick fish can’t be treated in the same tank as coral
- Can’t use automatic feeder – live/frozen food
Brackish-Water Aquariums
Ever thought about mixing things up with a brackish water aquarium? These setups are super cool because they mimic those unique spots where freshwater rivers meet the salty sea, like estuaries and mangroves. While you do need to keep an eye on the salinity levels and water quality, brackish tanks are generally less demanding than full-blown marine aquariums. If you’re up for a new adventure in fishkeeping, brackish water might just be your next favourite thing!
Top Brackish-Water Aquarium Fish
- Archer fish
- Barred Mudskipper
- Columbian Shark
- Endler’s Livebearer
- Gobies
- Guppies
- Mollies
- Mono Argentus
- Puffer Fish (Evil-Eyed, Figure 8, Green Spotted)
- Scats
Pros
- Unique fish species
- Dynamic ecosystem
- Great educational opportunity
- Less maintenance than a saltwater aquarium
Cons
- Limited plant options
- More maintenance than a freshwater aquarium
Other Home Aquarium Types
Planted Aquariums with No Fish
These aquariums are easier to keep than fish or watering your houseplants. All you have to worry about is topping off your tank and cleaning the glass occasionally. Some great hardy plant options include Anubias, Java Fern, and Java Moss, which are perfect for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike. If you’re only going to focus on plants, why not go full out with CO2?
Nano/Desktop Aquariums
Nano or desktop aquariums are compact tanks, typically ranging from 18 to 36 litres (5-10 gallons), perfect for small spaces. It’s a fantastic way to bring the tranquillity and beauty of an aquarium into areas where a larger setup might not fit.
When it comes to stocking your nano aquarium, there are plenty of options that thrive in smaller environments. Fish species like Pygmy Corydoras, Endlers, Chili Rasboras, Bettas, and Dwarf Shrimp are perfect for these setups. For plants, consider low-maintenance species such as Amazon Sword, Cryptocoryne, and Java Fern.
Conclusion
Aquariums come in many forms – freshwater, saltwater, and brackish – each with its unique charm and benefits. Whether you prefer simplicity or vibrancy, or a mix, there are many different types of fish tanks to choose from! If you’re new to fishkeeping, feel free to read our beginners guide and tips on how to cycle your fish tank.
