
If you want to add a bright splash of color and life to your freshwater aquarium, small fishes are an excellent choice. These tiny swimmers not only brighten up your tank but also offer fascinating behaviors that can captivate any aquarium enthusiast. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hobbyist, small aquarium fish are a manageable option, requiring less space while still providing an engaging aquatic environment. Let’s take a look at 25 small fish species that are perfect for your freshwater aquarium.
1. Mickey Mouse Platy

Mickey Mouse Platies are small, colorful fish that make an ideal addition to any freshwater aquarium. These peaceful fish grow to about 1.5 to 2 inches and are named for the distinctive Mickey Mouse-shaped pattern on their tails. Platies are easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They thrive in schools of three to five fish and prefer a minimum tank size of 10 gallons. Due to their quick breeding rate, it’s essential to monitor their population to avoid overstocking the tank.
2. Guppy

Guppies are some of the most common freshwater aquarium fish, especially for individuals who are new to the hobby. These vibrant fish grow up to 2 inches and are known for their wide range of colors and patterns. As livebearers, guppies reproduce quickly, so it’s crucial to manage their population to prevent overcrowding. Guppies thrive in schools and do well in tanks as small as 10 gallons, though a larger space is preferred. With a lifespan of 3 to 5 years, they add color and activity to any freshwater tank.
3. Zebra Danio

Zebra Danios are hardy and active fish that are perfect for beginner aquarium enthusiasts. These small fish grow to about 2 inches in length and are easily recognizable by their striking horizontal stripes, resembling a zebra’s pattern. Zebra Danios are adaptable to various water conditions, making them ideal for community tanks. They flourish when kept in groups of five and need a tank with a 10-gallon capacity. With a lifespan of up to 5 years, they provide a lively and low-maintenance addition to your freshwater aquarium.
4. Neon Tetra

Neon Tetras are one of the most beloved freshwater fish for smaller tanks due to their stunning colors and peaceful nature. These tiny fish, growing to about 1.5 inches, are known for their vibrant blue and red coloration, which makes them stand out in any aquarium. Neon Tetras thrive in schools of five or more and do well in a variety of water conditions. They like temperatures between 70-81°F and a tank size of at least 10 gallons. With a lifespan of 5 years, Neon Tetras remains a colorful and lasting addition to your aquarium.
5. White Cloud Mountain Minnow

White Cloud Mountain Minnows are small, active fish that are perfect for cooler freshwater tanks, making them an excellent option for hobbyists who don’t require tropical temperatures. These minnows grow to about 1.5 inches in length and are known for their shimmering white bodies with a splash of red on their fins. They do well in schools and are a great choice for community setups. The minimum tank size for White Cloud Mountain Minnows is 10 gallons, and they can live for 3 to 5 years with proper care.
6. Harlequin Rasbora

Harlequin Rasboras are small, peaceful fish with a distinctive red and black triangular pattern on their bodies. These fish grow to just under 2 inches and are ideal for community freshwater tanks. Harlequin Rasboras prefer to live in schools of five or more, ensuring that they feel secure in their environment. They thrive in well-planted tanks with plenty of hiding spots and do best in tanks of at least 10 gallons, though larger tanks of 20 gallons or more are even better. With a lifespan of 3 to 5 years, they remain a delightful addition to any aquarium.
7. Serpae Tetra

Serpae Tetras are small but colorful fish that bring vibrant red hues to any freshwater aquarium. These fish grow to about 1.75 inches and are peaceful by nature but can sometimes nip at the fins of other fish. To prevent aggression, it’s best to keep Serpae Tetras in schools of six or more. A 20-gallon tank is the minimum recommended size for these tetras, and they thrive in well-maintained community tanks. With a lifespan of up to 5 years, Serpae Tetras provides both beauty and activity to freshwater setups.
8. Panda Corydoras

Panda Corydoras are small catfish with a distinctive white body and black markings, resembling the famous panda bear. These bottom-dwelling fish are peaceful and enjoy being kept in schools of 3 to 5. They’re great at cleaning up, and munching on any leftover food from the substrate to keep your tank tidy. Panda Corydoras usually grow up to about 2 inches and are perfect for smaller tanks. They do well in freshwater tanks as small as 10 gallons but prefer slightly larger spaces. These fish are social creatures, so it’s best to keep them in groups to ensure they feel comfortable and thrive.
9. Glowlight Tetra

Glowlight Tetras are another beautiful addition to any aquarium, thanks to their translucent, silvery bodies and iridescent red stripes running from their head to tail. They are peaceful fish that do well in schools, and they grow to around 1.5 inches in length. Glowlight Tetras are easy to care for and do well in tanks as small as 10 gallons, though they prefer a bit more space. These fish are non-aggressive and are often kept in community tanks with other small, peaceful species. They have a lifespan of about 5 years, making them a long-term addition to your tank.
10. Pea Puffer

Pea Puffers, also known as dwarf puffers, are small but feisty fish that add character to any aquarium. These tiny fish, growing only up to 1.5 inches, can be aggressive, especially toward other members of their species. Due to their territorial nature, it’s best to keep them in tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish or house them individually. Pea Puffers require a well-planted tank to hide and explore, with a minimum tank size of 5 gallons. They are carnivores, so feeding them a diet of frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp will ensure their health and well-being.
11. Tiger Barb

Tiger Barbs are active and colorful fish known for their striking yellow and black stripes, resembling a tiger’s pattern. These fish grow to about 3 inches in length and are best kept in schools of six or more to prevent aggression. Tiger Barbs are fairly hardy and adapt well to a range of water conditions, but they can be nippy, so it’s important to keep them with other active species. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is required, as they need space to swim and display their lively behavior. Tiger Barbs have a lifespan of around 6 years and are ideal for tanks with larger.
12. Swordtail

Swordtails get their name because of the “sword” extension of the male’s tail fin. This species gives birth to live offspring instead of laying eggs. Swordtails are peaceful but can quickly overpopulate a tank if not carefully managed. Males are usually smaller and more colorful, with the characteristic sword-shaped tail, while females are larger and less colorful. Swordtails typically grow to 3 to 4 inches in length and thrive in schools. A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended, and they have a lifespan of 3-5 years.
13. German Blue Ram

German Blue Rams are beautiful cichlids that remain relatively small compared to other members of their family. These fish have vibrant blue and yellow coloration, making them stand out in any tank. However, German Blue Rams are not for beginners, as they require very specific water conditions, including warm, slightly acidic water. They grow to about 2 to 3 inches and should be kept in tanks of at least 20 gallons. While they are peaceful, they can be territorial, so it’s best to house them with other calm fish. Their lifespan is 3 to 5 years.
14. Buenos Aires Tetra

Buenos Aires Tetras are lively and colorful fish that are relatively easy to care for. Known for their distinctive red and silver coloration, these tetras are a good choice for beginner aquarists. They grow to about 2.75 inches and thrive in groups, so it’s best to keep them in schools of at least five. While they can tolerate a variety of water conditions, they are known to nibble on plants, so they’re better suited to tanks where plants can withstand this. Buenos Aires Tetras should be kept in tanks of at least 30 gallons to give them plenty of space to swim.
15. Dwarf Gourami

Dwarf Gouramis are small but striking fish with vibrant colors and unique patterns. The males have brilliant blue, red, and orange hues, while the females are more subdued in color. These fish grow to about 2 inches in length and are perfect for smaller tanks. Dwarf Gouramis are peaceful and can be kept in community tanks with other small, non-aggressive fish. However, they do require slightly warmer freshwater temperatures and need a well-maintained tank. They thrive in tanks of at least 5 gallons, though larger tanks of 10 gallons or more are ideal.
16. Gold Barb

Gold Barbs are active and colorful fish that add beauty and movement to any aquarium. These fish are typically green in the wild but have been selectively bred to produce a brilliant golden color. Gold Barbs are peaceful and do well in community tanks with other small, active fish. They typically reach around 3 inches in size and thrive when kept in groups of at least six. Gold Barbs prefer slightly cooler water and thrive in tanks of at least 20 gallons. They’re pretty low-maintenance and can live for up to 5 years. These fish are an excellent choice for a colorful and dynamic freshwater setup.
17. Betta Fish

Betta fish, aka. Siamese fighting fish are another popular species in the aquarium hobby. Males feature vibrant & flowing fins, while females have more subtle or dim fins. Betta fish are territorial, so male bettas should never be kept together, but females can be kept in small groups. These fish grow to about 3 inches and do well in tanks as small as 5 gallons, though larger tanks are recommended. They thrive in warm water and require a well-maintained environment. Betta fish live for around two to three years.
18. Hatchetfish

Hatchetfish are unique, small fish known for their flat, hatchet-like bodies. They are peaceful and enjoy swimming near the water’s surface, where they use their wing-like fins to glide above the water. These fish grow to about 1 to 2 inches in length and are best kept in tanks of at least 30 gallons. Hatchetfish can be a bit more challenging to care for due to their specific water requirements, and they need a secure tank lid, as they tend to jump when frightened. They live for about 5 years and are a great addition to more experienced aquarists’ tanks who are looking for something different.
19. Congo Tetra

The Congo Tetra is a vibrant-looking and peaceful fish that loves well-planted community tanks. These fish grow to about 3 inches in length and are known for their stunning coloration, which includes iridescent blue and gold tones. Congo Tetras are pretty social and must be kept with schools of six or more. They do best in tanks of at least 30 gallons, where they can swim freely and interact with other species. These fish are easy to care for, but they like somewhat acidic, soft water. With proper care, Congo Tetras can live for 3 to 5 years.
20. Beacon Fish (Head and Tail Light Tetra)

Beacon fish, also known as Head and Tail Light Tetras, are small yet striking fish known for their copper-colored spots at the base of the tail and above the eye, resembling lights on a vehicle. These peaceful fish grow to about 2 inches in length and thrive in schools of five or more. Beacon fish are best kept in tanks of at least 15 gallons, preferably with dim lighting and plenty of plants. They are an excellent addition to peaceful, planted aquariums and live for 3 to 5 years with proper care. Their unique glow adds charm to any freshwater setup.
21. Cherry Barb

Cherry Barbs are tiny, calm freshwater fish that reach a maximum size of about 2 inches. Males are particularly known for their bright red or orange coloration, which intensifies in healthy and happy fish. They thrive in schools, so keeping at least five together ensures they feel secure and active. These fish do well in community tanks and are best kept in tanks of 10 gallons or more. With a lifespan of 3 to 5 years, Cherry Barbs are perfect for beginners and work well with other peaceful species. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water with moderate temperatures.
22. Rainbowfish

Rainbowfish are colorful, active species that grow up to 4 inches and are well known for their vibrant, shimmering hues. Their vibrant colors appear most prominently in schools of six or more, making them perfect for community tanks. These peaceful fish enjoy swimming in the middle and upper levels of the tank. A 20-gallon tank or larger is recommended, as they are active swimmers. They live for 4 to 6 years and prefer slightly acidic to neutral water conditions, making them adaptable and easy to care for in properly maintained setups.
23. Kribensis Cichlid

Kribensis Cichlids are small, attractive fish with vibrant coloration, especially the deep red on the males’ bellies. These cichlids grow up to 3 inches and are ideal for community tanks, though they can become territorial during breeding. They require caves or hiding spots to feel secure, as they are naturally cave-dwelling. Kribensis thrive in tanks of 20 gallons or more, preferring slightly acidic to neutral water. With proper care, they live for 5 years, making them a colorful and engaging option for freshwater aquariums.
24. Celestial Pearl Danio

Celestial Pearl Danios are small, colorful fish with striking blue and red patterns, making them a standout in any tank. They grow to about 1 inch in length and thrive in schools of six or more. These fish are peaceful, hardy, and easy to care for, making them ideal for beginners. They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots and do well in tanks as small as 10 gallons. Celestial Pearl Danios have a lifespan of around 3 to 5 years and do best in slightly acidic to neutral water.
25. Endler’s Livebearer

Endler’s Livebearers are tiny, vibrant freshwater fish that are closely related to guppies. These lively fish grow to about 1.5 inches in length and are livebearers, meaning they give birth to live young. Males are particularly vibrant with hues of orange, green, and blue. Endler’s Livebearers thrive in schools of five or more and are well-suited for tanks of 10 gallons or larger. They are peaceful, adaptable, and have a lifespan of about 2 to 3 years, making them a fantastic choice for adding color and life to your freshwater aquarium without a lot of maintenance.
Love Pets as Much as We Do?

Scroll up and click the ‘Follow’ button to stay updated with the latest heart-warming, hilarious, and helpful pet posts from Pawdown, delivered straight to your Microsoft Start feed and MSN homepage!