When it comes to choosing a pet, there are many different factors to consider.
One of the most important decisions you’ll make is what type of pet to get.
There are all sorts of animals to choose from, but one of the most popular choices is a fish.
Fish make great pets because they’re low-maintenance and can be kept in a small space.
But with so many different types of fish to choose from, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.
Here are six tips on how to choose the right pet fish.
The Type of Fish You Want
Before you can choose the right pet fish, you need to decide what type of fish you want and if there are going to be different fish in the same tank.
Some people prefer to keep one type of fish, while others like a variety of them.
In the case of the latter, you will need to know which fish species can live together.
Some fish get along, while others will fight and even kill each other.
The most notorious example is the Tiger Barb fish that will nip at the fins of other fish, causing them to bleed to death.
Or, if you want to diversify your tank, also make sure to choose fish that are compatible with Bettas, as this one is known to attack other fish, as well.
Having a tank with a variety of fish does require more knowledge, but it can be more rewarding.
Additionally, you need to determine if the fish you want is saltwater or freshwater.
The majority of pet stores will have freshwater fish since they are easier to care for.
If you’re set on saltwater, be prepared for a higher level of commitment, since these tanks require more maintenance.
The Size of the Fish and Tank
The next thing you need to consider is the size of the fish when full-grown.
This is important because you need to know if the fish will outgrow its tank.
For example, goldfish can grow up to 12 inches, but they are commonly kept in small bowls or tanks that are only a fraction of their full size.
This is cruel and can lead to several health problems for the fish. If you want a goldfish, get a tank that is at least 20 gallons.
On the other hand, some fish only grow to be an inch or two.
These are perfect for small tanks since they won’t outgrow them and will have plenty of room to swim around.
Of course, the size of the fish is important when choosing how many to put in a tank.
If you have a small tank, it’s best to only put a few small fish in it.
A large tank can accommodate more fish or even some larger fish.
Make sure you don’t overcrowd the tank, though, as this can lead to stress and health problems for the fish.
The Life Expectancy of the Fish
Some fish only have a lifespan of a few years, while others can live for decades.
This is important to think about because you need to be prepared for the long-term commitment.
If you’re not ready to care for a fish for 10+ years, choose a species with a shorter lifespan.
For example, goldfish can live for up to 20 years if they are well-cared for.
That’s a long time to have a pet, so be sure you’re prepared for it before getting one.
On the other hand, some fish only live for a few months or even weeks.
These are known as “feeder fish” and are often used to feed larger fish.
If you’re not ready for a long-term commitment, choose a fish with a shorter lifespan.
The Maintenance Requirements
Some fish are very low maintenance, while others require a lot of care.
This is important to think about because you need to be prepared to care for your fish properly.
Again, goldfish require weekly water changes and regular vacuuming of the gravel.
They also need a filter to keep the water clean. If you’re not willing to do this, goldfish are not the right pet for you.
On the other hand, some fish only require monthly water changes and can even go longer without being fed.
Some of the easier fish to care for include guppies, mollies, and platies.
If you’re not willing to do weekly water changes, choose a fish that is low maintenance.
Additionally, some fish require warm water while others prefer cold water.
This is important to think about because you need to be prepared to provide the proper environment for your pet.
For example, goldfish prefer cold water while bettas prefer warm water.
The Cost of the Fish
Some fish are very inexpensive, while others can be quite costly.
This is important to think about because you need to be prepared to pay for your fish and its supplies.
For example, saltwater fish can be quite expensive, as well as their tanks and supplies.
If you’re not prepared to pay for a saltwater setup, choose a different type of fish.
On the other hand, some fish are very inexpensive and their supplies are as well.
These include goldfish, guppies, and mollies.
Of course, make sure that basic maintenance is always covered, such as a filter and food, and you’ll also want to get a larger tank as they grow.
The Availability of the Fish
Some fish are very common, while others are quite rare.
This is important to think about because you need to be prepared to find the fish you want.
For example, goldfish are very common and can be found in most pet stores.
On the other hand, some saltwater fish are very rare and can only be found in specialty stores.
If you’re not prepared to search for a rare fish, choose a more common one.
Additionally, some fish are only available seasonally.
Some saltwater fish are only available during the summer months because that’s when they’re in season.
If you want a specific fish, be sure to check its availability before buying it.
When choosing a pet fish, it’s important to think about the different factors involved.
You need to consider how much time you’re willing to spend taking care of it, what type of environment it needs, how expensive it is, and how common or rare it is.
By considering all of these things, you can choose the right pet fish for you that will get along with everybody.