There is a wide variety of tropical fish that can be kept in home aquariums, but some of the hardiest ones are perfect for both beginner and experienced aquarists. These fish can be found in a variety of shapes, colours, and sizes, making them a popular choice for any home aquarium.
15 of the hardiest tropical fish for beginners are:
• Goldfish
• Zebra danios,
• Endlers
• Mollies
• Rasbora
• Corydoras
• Platies and Swordtails
• Corydoras
• Neon Tetra
• Betta fish
• Kuhli Loaches
• Malawi cichlids
• Bolivian cichlids
• Bloodfin tetra
• Catfish
Now that you know what species are generally easy to care for let’s explore common questions surrounding hardy fish, the common misconceptions, and what to avoid when it comes to most hardy species.
What Is A Hardy Tropical Fish?
A hardy tropical fish is a fish that can withstand changes in water temperature and pH levels, making them a popular choice for those who are new to the aquarium hobby. Hardy tropical fish are a good choice for beginner aquarists because they are less likely to die in response to changes in water temperature and pH levels. These fish are also known for their brightly coloured scales and exciting patterns, making them a beautiful addition to any home aquarium.
Does Hardy Mean Less Expensive And Less Maintenance?
Some people mistakenly believe that hardy fish are less expensive and require less maintenance, but this is not always the case. While some hardy fish can be easier to care for than other tropical fish, it is essential to research the specific species you are interested in before making a purchase.
Hardy tropical fish can be an excellent choice for those who are new to the aquarium hobby but being robust means they are more tolerant to water parameters, so to an extent, they will be less maintenance, and with regards to being cheaper or less expensive, the only thing I can imagine is you would save on electric as some of these fish can be kept at lower temperatures resulting in lower power consumption to keep the water warm.
How Are Hardy Tropical Fish Able To Survive Much Lower Temperatures Than Other Tropical Species?
One of the main reasons why hardy tropical fish can survive much lower temperatures than other tropical species is because they come from areas where temperature can vary, and sometimes it can get much colder. These fish have adapted to that way of life and can therefore withstand lower temperatures than most other tropical fish would not survive. Many hardy fish are native to Africa and South America,
Additionally, some species of hardy tropical fish have a high tolerance for ammonia and nitrites, making them less sensitive to changes in water quality. This is another reason why these fish are a good choice for beginner aquarists, as they are less likely to die in response to poor water conditions.
What Is The Hardiest Aquarium Schooling Fish?
The hardiest schooling fish is the goldfish. These fish can withstand a wide range of water temperatures and pH levels, making them a popular choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Goldfish come in a variety of shapes, colours, and sizes, making them a popular choice for any home aquarium.
What Is The Hardiest Community Aquarium Fish?
The hardiest community fish is the Neon Tetra. These fish are native to South America and can withstand a wide range of water temperatures and pH levels. Neon Tetras are a popular choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists because of their brightly coloured scales and interesting patterns.
Hardy Tropical Fish That Can Survive In Small Aquariums Or Bowls
While most hardy tropical fish require a minimum tank size of 10 gallons, there are a few species that can be kept in smaller aquariums or bowls. Some of the hardiest tropical fish that can survive in small aquariums or bowls include:
- Goldfish –goldfish can be kept in something as small as a fishbowl or even a 10-gallon aquarium. They have very low demand and can tolerate a range of water temperatures.
- Zebra danios-due to their small bodies, these fish can be housed in a relatively small aquarium. They are accepting of a wide range of water parameters, although it is always recommended that you keep the water parameters as stable as possible.
- Endlers-this species can be kept in as little as 5-gallon aquariums. Be mindful that if you have a pair and you intend to let them breed, the 10 gallons may be too small for this purpose.
- Betta fish-are considered among the easiest tropical fish to care for. They often can do fine with very little space but be sure to research this fish thoroughly before acquiring one.
All fish, hardy or not, will benefit from regular water changes, and you should not look at the term hardy and think they will tolerate neglect while they can handle variations in water quality like most other fish. This will shorten their lifespan and affect the overall quality of the fish’s health.
How Many Days Will A Hardy Fish Survive Without Food?
A hardy fish will survive without food for several days, depending on the species. Some hardy fish, such as goldfish, can survive for up to a week without food, while other fish, such as Neon Tetras, can survive for up to three days without food. It is important to note that while a hardy fish can survive without food for a short period of time, this does not mean that the fish will thrive. Any fish should always be given a high-quality diet and regular water changes to ensure optimal health.
Being hardy does not mean they can survive longer without food. In fact, that has no bearing on them being rugged. How long will a fish survive without food is entirely based on the fish; for example, babies and juveniles may not have sufficient storage of fat reserves to go for long periods with no food, whereas an adult could easily do so, and the larger the species of fish the likeliness that they can survive is greater than that of small schooling fish.
How Long Between Water Change For Hardy Fish?
Just like any other species, hardy tropical fish should be given a freshwater change every week or two. Some can go for two to three weeks without a difference because of a good filtration system. Being hardy simply means not being as susceptible to changes in water conditions and won’t simply die because of the variations. While some hardy tropical fish can tolerate a wide range of water parameters, it is always best to keep the water conditions as stable as possible. This will help ensure the health and longevity of your fish.
Being a hardy fish doesn’t mean they can do without care – in fact, just like any other tropical fish, they need regular water changes and a high-quality diet to thrive. However, due to their adaptability, hardy fish can be an excellent option for anyone looking for a new pet fish. So if you’re looking for an easy-to-care-for tropical fish that can withstand variations in water conditions, consider one of the many hardy species available!
