Top 46 small fish for aquariums: varieties and names of the smallest colorful species of small size

When dreaming of a home underwater world, many imagine large aquariums with large fish. But the real magic often lies in the details, namely in the small, nimble, and incredibly bright inhabitants. Miniature fish can transform even a modest-sized aquarium into a colorful, dynamic, and vibrant ecosystem.

These tiny creatures are amazing in their diversity: from the neon flashes of rasboras and tetras to the amusing habits of dwarf catfish and the bizarre shapes of micro-bullheads. They are ideal for creating complex, natural-looking landscapes where each species has its own niche — at the surface, in the middle layers of the water, or at the bottom.

Choosing a small fish is not just a matter of aesthetics. Such pets usually require less space, but often more attention to water quality. A properly selected school of small species can be much more interesting and picturesque than one or two large fish. Let's discover this amazing world of miniature colors and characters.

Types of small fish for aquariums

Small tanks for keeping small fish are available in various sizes. Nano aquariums (5-10 liters) can be placed on a table, shelf, or nightstand. Larger containers (from 10 to 40 liters) are suitable for keeping the smallest aquarium fish of all species. It is not a problem to purchase pets of the right size that are unpretentious and attractive in appearance at a pet store. However, you should take into account their character traits and compatibility with other pets when making a purchase.

Schooling fish live surrounded by their own kind, while non-schooling fish thrive alone (micro rasboras, cockerels). Some schooling fish for aquariums swim in a wedge formation and maintain their formation (for example, Amanda tetras), while others live with their fellow fish but do not swim in a wedge formation (for example, blue neon tetras).

Some aquatic fauna require a cover glass due to their jumping ability, while others thrive only in an open aquarium. Each species of fish has different requirements, as well as preferences for living conditions. Some require live vegetation and soil, while others require aeration and filtration. But absolutely all inhabitants require water changes.

Apistogramma

Apistogramma, which are interesting in their behavior, require an aquarium with a volume of 30 liters per pair. They are playful, bright, and funny. The downside is that these fish are prone to illness and frailty, which is why they rarely live to be 2 years old. They are considered capricious and demanding in terms of temperature and water parameters.

They are considered capricious, demanding in terms of temperature and water parameters.

Norman's aplochileichthys (Poropanchax normani)

Norman's blue-eyed fish captivates with its spectacular appearance. Its silvery color with a bluish tint is especially attractive when properly lit. Even part of its iris is blue. Size: up to 4 cm.

Keep blue-eyed fish in groups of up to 10 individuals. These beautiful fish are peaceful, active, and get along well with other friendly small fish such as tetras, rasboras, and peaceful bottom-dwelling fish. Live plants are placed in the aquarium, as aploheychthys require secluded corners, dark places, and dark soil.

They are peaceful, active, and get along well with other friendly little fish.

Astyanax – blind fish (Astyanax jordani)

The name of this pet speaks for itself – a blind fish that has no eyes. But the fry are born with eyes that degenerate within a few days. They grow up to 10 cm in length, so they are not suitable for nano aquariums. Their body color is pink, acquiring a chic sheen with age.

Astianax live in schools of at least 5 fish. Despite their peaceful nature, they often bite their neighbors in the tank, especially in the early stages after being introduced. However, they get along with fish that have similar requirements for living conditions and do not regard their blind neighbors as food.

The name of this pet speaks for itself — a blind fish that has no eyes.

Southern Aphyosemion (Aphyosemion australe)

The extraordinary beauty and expressiveness of the southern afiosemion is surprising. This is a genus of afiosemion that includes many varieties with different body colors ranging from sky blue to fiery red. The body size is 6-7 cm, males are larger and brighter than females.

They should be kept in shoals, where males will predominate. Afiosei do not attack their aquarium neighbors, but males compete with each other for leadership in the group. During such periods, it is fascinating to observe their behavior! These small fish get along well with other calm inhabitants. They are undemanding in terms of living conditions, but feel better in tanks with live flora.

They are undemanding in terms of living conditions, but feel better in tanks with live flora.

Killifish

These are playful, extremely active fish that can jump out of the tank if it is not covered. Killifish are a type of Afiosemion, but they are more demanding in terms of their living conditions. Not recommended for beginner aquarists. They get along with friendly sea creatures, but it is better to keep them separately in a species aquarium.

It is important to consider the behavioral characteristics of killifish. Males behave aggressively towards each other. In a small tank, killifish are kept in groups – 3-4 females per male. Live plants are a must in the aquarium.

Playful, extremely active fish that can jump out of the water.

Cherry barb: simple and veiltail (Puntius titteya)

Peaceful, but fast-moving and undemanding in terms of living conditions, simple barbs are extremely active. Only males compete with each other, vying for females. They feel better in small groups of 7-9 individuals and get along well with other fish. Barbs are a good choice for novice aquarists.

The red-orange coloration of cherry barb fish will impress anyone. They grow up to 4 cm in length. A distinctive feature is a thin cherry-colored stripe along the back, which looks very impressive. The fiery color of the veil barb's body is striking in its brightness. All of the fish listed are subspecies of the common barb. They are similar in appearance and have the same requirements for living conditions.

Peaceful, but fast-moving and undemanding in terms of living conditions.

Yellow barb (Pethia aurea)

These are small fish up to 2.5 cm long. They are extremely peaceful and calm, even timid in nature. Therefore, they are kept in schools of 10 individuals per aquarium. When kept in this way, barbs become less shy, and the females compete with each other for the attention of the opposite sex. If they are the only inhabitants of the aquarium, there will be no problems with them.

When kept together, tiny, peaceful fish are chosen as neighbors for yellow barbs.

These are small fish up to 2.5 cm long.

Sumatran barb (Puntigrus tetrazona)

They are active and lively and require a strong current, so a filter should be installed in the aquarium. The water should be slightly cool to keep the barbs feeling comfortable. However, it is difficult to maintain a cool temperature in a small tank. The required volume is 30 liters for a small school of fish.

The water should be slightly cool, which will allow the barbs to feel great.

Beefish (Brachygobius doriae)

An interesting, unusual small fish with an unusual coloration, nicknamed a bee or bumblebee, has an elongated body with transverse yellow-brown stripes. Its appearance can decorate a home aquarium. It grows to a length of 3–3.5 cm. It is a bottom-dwelling fish that prefers to spend most of its time at the bottom.

It is better to keep them in a species-specific tank, as bee fish are aggressive towards their neighbors. They thrive in groups of 6-10 individuals. Beefish do not compete with each other. They require brackish water and sandy soil. Plants must be adapted to salt water in advance. Beefish can live in fresh water for a while, but their lifespan will be reduced.

It is better to keep them in a species-specific tank, as bee fish are aggressive towards their neighbors.

Gambusia (Gambusia sp.)

A pair of gambusia will need a 10-liter tank, where they will be comfortable and have plenty of space. The water needs to be salted. These are unpretentious fish that can be recommended for breeding by novice aquarists. Although some consider them unattractive in appearance.

Gambusia are aggressive towards their neighbors. Gambusia should not be kept with guppies, goldfish, long-finned fish, or slow-swimming aquatic fauna. However, gambusia get along well with barbs and cardinals. They can also be aggressive towards their own kind, so gambusia should not be kept in large groups.

Gambusia are aggressive towards their neighbors.

Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)

These are popular representatives of the underwater world among aquarists. They reproduce quickly in good conditions, have a friendly disposition, and get along well with small, calm fish. Males are colorful and striking, with very long fins. Females are not as attractive, but are larger than males.

Guppies require at least 20 liters of water per 6 individuals. In more cramped conditions, they get sick, which negatively affects their appearance. They feel good in both fresh and brackish waters.

How guppies reproduce, how often, and what conditions need to be created in their habitat – read about this in a separate article.

These are popular representatives of the underwater world among aquarists.

Endler's guppy (Poecilia wingei)

A miniature livebearing guppy that reaches a maximum size of 2 cm. They live in groups of 6-7 individuals, with 2-3 males for each female. Males are more beautiful than females, as with other guppy species. A filter and compressor are installed in the aquarium. They get along well with danios, rasboras, and shrimp.

A miniature livebearing guppy that reaches a maximum size of 2 cm.

Pumila gourami (Trichopsis pumilus)

The dwarf gourami is striking with its sparkling, luminous scales, which are especially effective when properly lit, shimmering with all the colors of the rainbow. The fish makes sounds similar to a cricket's song. Therefore, gouramis are commonly referred to as “talkers.” The size of these tiny sea dwellers does not exceed 4 cm.

They easily adapt to the conditions of their environment, temperature, and water parameters. These peaceful and calm gouramis are quite shy, so they feel better among their own kind. In a nano aquarium, they live in schools of 6-9 fish.

There should be more females than males to avoid rivalry.

Easily adapts to living conditions, temperature, and water parameters.

Dwarf honey gourami: gold and red (Colisa chuna)

The golden or honey gourami is a variety of pumila, but differs from its counterpart in its intense, rich, and bright coloration. It looks spectacular in an aquarium with green plants and dark soil. It is desirable that the water temperature be at least 25 degrees Celsius.

Honey gouramis are the friendliest fish, which feel comfortable with other calm inhabitants – rasboras, danios, tetras. But gouramis should not be placed with active fish that will take away their food. After all, their character is timid and indecisive.

These are the friendliest fish that get along well with other calm inhabitants.

It is not recommended to keep gouramis and lalius in the same mini aquarium due to their similarity. The latter will mistake gouramis for their own kind and try to attack them.

Danio

The small, unpretentious aquarium fish danio thrives in groups of 2-4. They are interesting because of their coloration—dark blue longitudinal stripes on a white background. You can also find red and spotted danios. They are extremely hardy, undemanding in terms of water temperature, but cannot tolerate sudden changes in temperature.

Danio are one of the few fish that can constantly swim in the upper layers of the water. These small fish grow to a length of 7 cm. Peaceful and calm, danios coexist with other small aquatic fauna.

Small, undemanding danios thrive in groups of 2-4.

Danionella dracula

Danios are distinguished by their unusually interesting body coloration. Their bodies are translucent, revealing their internal organs and spine. During spawning, the females' eggs are visible in their abdomen. The fish also have peculiar fangs, which is clear from the name “dracula.” They are designed to protect against enemies and competition among males. However, even in the most fierce battles, they do not injure each other. Watching the fights is extremely exciting! These peaceful inhabitants of freshwater reservoirs get along well with other friendly pets of similar sizes.

Danionella are demanding in terms of living conditions – they need aeration, water filtration, and 10 hours of light per day.

Danionella are distinguished by their unusually interesting body coloration.

Dario dario

Cute, unpretentious dario dario feel great in nano aquariums, as their body length does not exceed 2.5 cm. The males look attractive, glistening with silvery-gray scales with vertical red stripes. Their fins are bright red and expressive. Females have greenish-gray scales and transparent fins.

Dario are kept in groups, with 2-3 females for each male. One family will feel great in a 10-liter tank. Aeration and filtration are essential. If the room is cool, the water will need to be heated, as dario are tropical creatures.

Cute, unpretentious dario dario feel great in nano aquariums.

Iriatherina werneri

A fairly rare fish that is demanding in terms of water parameters. Only 2-3 individuals can be kept in a 30-liter tank. The fish grows up to 6 cm in size and has very beautiful fins.

A fairly rare fish that is demanding in terms of water parameters

Cardinal (Tanichthys albonubes)

Male cardinal fish are much more beautiful than females (as with guppies). But in general, representatives of both sexes look good in the aquarium. They prefer to live in schools of 10-15 individuals. For one school, you should choose an aquarium with a volume of at least 40 liters. Cardinal fish have a calm, cheerful disposition. If you create good conditions for them, they reproduce quickly.

For one flock, you should choose an aquarium with a volume of at least 40 liters.

Dwarf pufferfish (Carinotetraodon travancoricus)

They have an unusual appearance—large rotating eyes that change color from green to brown depending on the creature's emotional state, and the ability to inflate to a round shape when danger is present. At the same time, the fish releases needles. These extraordinary abilities make the tetradon an extremely interesting fish for aquarists, which is fascinating to watch.

Tetradons are quite aggressive. They actively defend their territory from intruding neighbors. They hunt live food and are completely indifferent to vegetation. A nano aquarium is suitable for small tetradons—just 20 liters of water is enough for a small school.

However, the tank should be square or rectangular, but in no case round.

Tetradons have a rather aggressive nature.

Pygmy knifefish, or Myers' carnegieella (Carnegiella myers)

Pygmy cichlids are distinguished by their peculiar body shape, compressed at the sides and with shoulder muscles at chest level. Long wing-like fins allow them to “flutter” above the water, rising 70-80 cm. In this way, they can cover up to 5 m. Carnegieella swim in the upper layers of the water body. They live best in flocks of 6 to 10 or more individuals. It is not worth keeping fewer than that, as these fish are timid and easily frightened. When there are few of their kind, they behave unnaturally.

They need a long rectangular aquarium with floating plants that will prevent them from jumping out. It is best to cover the tank with a lid, leaving 15 cm between the surface of the cover glass and the water. Maersa is the smallest creature among its species, growing no more than 2.5 cm. However, it is quite demanding in terms of living conditions, so it is recommended for experienced aquarists.

Long wing-like fins allow them to “flutter” above the water, rising 70-80 cm.

Corydoras

Beautiful, with a bony shell on its back, the corydoras catfish has a spindle-shaped body and comes in gray-olive, orange, dark chocolate, and other colors. Its body size is no more than 7 cm. However, some Corydoras species can grow up to 10 cm in length. Different species of catfish have different requirements for their living conditions. However, most often they are unpretentious.

Some catfish have sensitive whiskers that are damaged by poor water quality. When breeding, you should study the nature and needs of a particular species.

Coridoras are considered bottom-dwelling fish, so the bottom area is crucial when setting up a home aquarium. For 5-8 catfish, you will need an aquarium of at least 50 liters. They look most impressive against a dark background. The tank should not be densely planted with plants.

The body size is no more than 7 cm.

Black-striped limia (Limia nigrofasciata)

Lalia is perfect for beginner aquarists due to its calm nature and undemanding living conditions. The fish is about 6 cm long. It is unpretentious in terms of food and easily gets along with other inhabitants. The only drawback is its unattractive, inconspicuous appearance.

Undemanding in terms of food, easily gets along with other inhabitants

Lalius (Colisa lalia)

This is a colorful aquarium inhabitant that grows up to 7 cm in length. It can be any color – red, turquoise, orange, green, blue. Lalius fish look very impressive, especially if you organize proper lighting. These peaceful fish get along well with other calm fish – guppies, catfish, neons, barbs. Lalyus are undemanding and can live for more than 4-5 years when provided with optimal living conditions.

Lalius is a colorful aquarium inhabitant that grows up to 7 cm in length.

Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii)

Helena

Melania

The striped heterosexual snail looks impressive in an aquarium and is unable to reproduce uncontrollably, as individuals of different sexes are required for spawning. Helena is unpretentious, but quite demanding in terms of water hardness, which should be at least 9-12 units. This tropical inhabitant feels comfortable in water at a temperature of 22-23 degrees.

Destroy green film on glass; Helena snails will not survive in a tank with cichlids, tetradons, and other predatory fish.

Omnivorous, light brown with olive speckles, fizzy snails are capable of rapid reproduction

Helena is unpretentious, but quite demanding in terms of water hardness

They combat the film on the water surface, increasing oxygen penetration.

Omnivorous, light brown with olive speckles, physids are capable of rapid reproduction, being hermaphrodites, and can completely fill the aquatic space. They often end up as accidental aquarium pets, arriving with soil or plants. Physa snails are 10-15 mm in size. Despite their small size, these mollusks secrete large amounts of mucus, which has a detrimental effect on the biological balance. Controlling the number of physa snails in a home aquarium is highly recommended, as they are: A predatory snail with a cone-shaped shell of yellow background with transverse brown stripes. It feeds exclusively on protein food, but is harmless to large gastropods, fish, and vegetation. Small snails such as hizi, katuki, and melania will not survive in the same tank as Helena. Feed on detritus;

These are miniature fish that grow up to 2 cm. They are perfect for nano aquariums, as only one liter of water is enough for one individual. Micro rasboras look great in tanks with flora – moss, grassy plants. Compared to the galaxy micro rasbora, the erythromicron looks modest, as its coloration is not as bright and eye-catching. However, these fish are unpretentious and undemanding in terms of water parameters.

Micro rasboras look great in containers with flora – moss, grassy plants.

Mollies (Poecilia)

Mollies do not exceed 7-8 cm in size. The natural species is not brightly colored – yellow-gray with small spots. Breeding forms are more expressive – red, blue, silver, white, and black with different body shapes. They get along well with small, peaceful fish. It is not recommended to keep them together with veiltail inhabitants, such as goldfish. Mollies mistake their gorgeous tails and fins for plants, so they happily eat them.

Mollies do not exceed 7-8 cm in size.

Beckford's nannostomus (Nannostomus beckfordi)

Funny, playful nannostomus love to frolic in the evenings. The dominant male in the school swims vertically. A 40-liter aquarium will be sufficient for 6-9 individuals. However, it is essential to provide natural hiding places (e.g., caves). Special attention should be paid to feeding—these fish have small mouths, so they cannot eat large amounts of food. Small pellets, dry food, and cyclops are what nannostomus love. This diet has a positive effect on the intensity of their coloration.

Funny, playful nannostomus love to frolic in the evenings.

Nannostomus marginatus

Active tiny nannostomus are a real decoration for a nano aquarium. They grow up to 2.5 cm. They are easy to care for. They look gorgeous thanks to their gray color, horizontal white and black stripes, and red fins. They live in schools of 10, staying in the upper and middle layers of the water. Nanostomus get along well with other peaceful aquarium inhabitants, as well as with larger fish if they live at the bottom.

Nannostomus get along well with other peaceful aquarium inhabitants.

Neon tetras (Paracheirodon)

This is the smallest fish and is perfectly suited for a nano aquarium. Several of them can live in a small aquarium. It is better to keep them in schools of 10-15 individuals. In this case, the tank should have a volume of 40 liters. Neon fish are demanding in terms of water parameters, quite capricious, and cannot coexist with other aquatic fauna, as they are completely defenseless against them.

The smallest fish, perfectly suited for nano aquariums

Neoheterandria elegans

It is distinguished by its unpretentious nature, tiger coloring, and the ability to thrive in a 10-liter aquarium with two fish. Size – 3 cm. A good start for beginner aquarists, but the breed is still little known. Therefore, not every pet store has Neoheterandria.

Distinguished by its unpretentious nature

Nothobranchius rachovii

Beautiful fish with orange and blue bright fins in males. They are kept in families of 2-4 fish. Twenty liters of water is sufficient for one family. They grow well in any conditions and are undemanding in terms of water temperature.

Grows well in any conditions, undemanding in terms of water temperature

Macrotocinclus affinis

Unpretentious otocinclus exist only in tanks with algae. Their diet consists mainly of algae, so they simply die in a new aquarium. These are schooling fish that exist only in groups of 3-4 individuals. A filter and compressor that create a small current are essential for them.

Otocinclus are a little shy and active during the day when searching for food. Do not place algae-eating aquatic inhabitants with them, such as large snails. However, otocinclus get along well with any other peaceful fish, such as neon tetras, tetras, guppies, and danios.

Unpretentious otocinclus exist only in reservoirs with algae

Betta splendens

These miniature fish with lush, impressive fins can live in the smallest home aquariums. Five liters of water is enough for one fish. It is ideal if the males live in a microaquarium as a family, with two to three females for each male. However, it is not recommended to keep several males in one tank—there will be war!

These miniature fish with lush, spectacular fins can live in the smallest home aquariums.

Poecilia

These combative fish do not have bright, eye-catching colors. However, they adapt well to poor living conditions. That is why they are recommended for beginners in aquarium keeping. If there are too many Boraras in a nano aquarium, a war will begin. Therefore, it is better to choose a larger tank for them. Catfish are excellent neighbors for pecilias.

These combative fish do not have bright, eye-catching coloring.

Popondetta furcata (Pseudomugil furcatus)

Popondettes are also called blue-eyes because of the bright, expressive color of the iris of their eyes. They grow to 4-5 cm. It is best to keep these fish in groups of 6 or more. A 40-liter tank is suitable for this number. Surrounded by their fellow fish, they behave less timidly and more naturally. However, males can actively compete for the attention of females. Popondettas are unpretentious and undemanding in terms of temperature and water parameters. They get along well with peaceful neighbors such as neon tetras, tetras, danios, and shrimp.

They get along well with peaceful neighbors such as neon tetras, tetras, danios, and shrimp.

Pseudomugil (Pseudomugil sp.)

Pseudomugil is a type of blue-eyed fish. These blue-eyed little fish are called false mullet because they look like the well-known fish. Depending on the species, they grow up to 6 cm in length. They are distinguished by their bright body coloration. Their greenish, olive, or golden coloration is uneven. These beautiful fish live up to 3 years. Pseudomugil exhibits distinctive behavior in a school.

A solitary existence leads to stress, which causes them to refuse food and lose their bright coloration.

Pseudomugil gertrudae

This species grows to a maximum length of 3.5 cm. It differs from the blue-eyed fish in that it has numerous black spots on the surface of its body. With age, the silvery color of the body changes to golden. Gertrude has a shorter lifespan than popondetta. Gertrude lives for one season – one year, and popondetta – 2 years.

Gertrude cannot tolerate sudden changes in water temperature. Therefore, place the fish in an aquarium with stable parameters. A gentle current will be beneficial. These are peaceful, friendly aquarium inhabitants that easily coexist with other calm representatives of aquatic fauna.

Pseudomugil is a variety of blue-eyed fish that grows to a maximum length of 3.5 cm.

Pseudomugil sp. “Red neon”

The neon blue-eyed fish has a delightful coloration – small black dots are placed on a golden surface, as well as on transparent fins. Blue eyes stand out as a bright spot. It is best to keep pseudomugils in schools of 8-10 fish. The home pond is equipped with filtration and aeration. The current should be weak. They get along well with other species of blue-eyed fish, guppies, and micro rasboras.

It is best to keep pseudomugil in schools of 8-10 fish.

Pseudomugil signifer

These nimble, unusually active little fish are grayish-olive in color with transparent fins and grow up to 5 cm. The unusual appearance of the pseudomugil makes even experienced aquarists want to breed it. They are kept in groups of 8-10 in a mono-aquarium or tank with other peaceful inhabitants.

The unusual appearance of the pseudomugil makes even experienced aquarists want to breed it.

Rasbora

Rasboras are excellent for keeping in a multi-species tank. They live in schools and are distinguished by their striking appearance. There are many species of rasbora – more than 70. They are unpretentious, peaceful, active, and behave naturally with their relatives.

Brigitta (Boraras brigittae)

This colorful fish, affectionately known as a flashlight, is popular among aquarists. Hardy, up to 2 cm in size, with bright, colorful body coloring, on the surface of which there are miniature spots. They cannot tolerate loneliness, lose their color and appetite, which leads to death. They live in schools.

Hardy, up to 2 cm in size, with bright, colorful body coloration.

Hengeli Rasbora (Rasbora hengeli)

Hengeli rasboras are distinguished by their endurance and ability to easily adapt to existing living conditions. They barely reach 3 cm in size. They have a silvery coloration with an impressive pink or orange tint. They stay in groups and like to hide among aquarium plants.

They have a silvery color with an impressive pink or orange tint.

Clip-spotted, or heteromorph (Trigonostigma heteromorpha)

The spotted rasbora is interesting for its appearance – it has a black triangle on its silvery, orange-tinged body. These lively little fish, which do not exceed 3 cm in size, can liven up any aquascape. They easily adapt to any conditions, but require a gentle water current and subdued, dim lighting. Under intense lighting, they lose their rich coloration.

Restless fidgets, no larger than 3 cm.

Maculatus (Boraras maculatus)

These unpretentious, schooling fish are capable of fiercely defending their territory and attracting the attention of females. One male dominates the group, showing his leadership qualities. At the same time, he dramatically changes color when fighting with his fellow fish. Thanks to their small size (no more than 3 cm), they are ideal for nano aquariums. However, boraras should be kept in groups of 6-10 individuals.

Thanks to their small size (no more than 3 cm), they are ideal for nano aquariums.

Mera (Boraras merah)

Another miniature representative of micro rasboras, capable of getting along well with other small fish such as danios, neons, guppies, and others. Their bright, eye-catching appearance—orange-red coloring with olive or beige speckles—allows these little ones to decorate the aquarium. They grow to no more than 2 cm and have a timid disposition.

They grow to no more than 2 cm and have a timid nature.

Firefly (Boraras urophthalma)

Fireflies are 2.5 cm in size. They live in groups of 8-10. A 30-40 liter aquarium is suitable for a family of fireflies. Males behave aggressively towards each other, but do not injure each other. These peaceful fish get along well with other small fish and reproduce easily at home.

A 30-40 liter aquarium is suitable for the firefly family.

Espey (Trigonostigma espei)

Espey's rasbora fry, which belong to the clownfish category, are suitable for a mini aquarium. They got this name because of their bright coloration, which combines silver, orange, and black. A dark triangular spot on the tail is a distinctive feature. These are schooling fish, with a minimum of two per 10-liter tank. They are difficult to breed at home.

These are schooling fish, with a minimum of two per 10-liter tank.

Sawbwa resplendens

The Savba rasbora is distinguished by its silvery body color and bright orange nose. It grows up to 2.5 cm. It behaves peacefully towards its neighbors. Each male requires 3-4 females. Otherwise, conflicts within the species are possible.

Peaceful towards neighbors.

Blue-eyed Norman (Aplocheilichthys normani)

Grows up to 3-4 cm. Active, playful, and amusing, they can be kept in a small tank. With proper lighting, they look attractive, shimmering with neon hues and surprising with their glowing eyes.

Active, playful, and entertaining, they can be kept in a small tank.

Glofish

An artificial form bred from the common tetra. Suitable for mini aquariums, does not require careful maintenance. Tetras have a calm, peaceful nature. They get along well with danios, barbs, coridoras, and neons.

The main feature of this fish is that its beautiful colors are revealed under ultraviolet light (this requires lighting).

An artificial form derived from the common ternetzia.

Tetras

A bright underwater inhabitant that adapts to less than ideal living conditions. Tetras grow to between 2 and 6 cm, depending on the specific species, and prefer to live alongside their own kind. Properly organized lighting will make the fish simply irresistible. When choosing a species of tetra for your home aquarium, focus on their appearance and needs. However, as a rule, these fish are unpretentious.

Amanda (Hyphessobrycon amandae)

Tetra amanda feels good in a tiny nano aquarium. But this fish belongs to a school. Therefore, it is better to place a school of 6-8 amanda in a 30-liter aquascape. They are sensitive to water purity, so a filter is necessary. Body length is 2 cm.

Amanda tetra feels comfortable in a tiny nano aquarium.

Blue (Boehlkea fredcochui)

The blue tetra has an elongated blue body with yellow-olive sides. It looks gorgeous with the right lighting. A family of a couple of little ones will need a 20-liter nano aquarium. However, no more than 15-20 tetras should be placed in one aquascape. Otherwise, conflicts within the species are possible. Natural shelters in the form of dense vegetation are a must.

The blue tetra is distinguished by its elongated blue body.

Pomegranate tetra (Hemigrammus pulcher)

The garnet tetra grows up to 5 cm in length and feels comfortable in small aquascapes with a volume of 10 liters. It is undemanding in terms of living conditions and is suitable for beginner aquarists. The garnet tetra differs from the blue tetra in its unusual coloration—a golden body surface that shimmers with all kinds of shades.

The pomegranate tetra grows up to 5 cm in length.

Lemon tetra (Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis)

The lemon tetra is suitable for living in an aquarium with other fish, as it is friendly and peaceful in nature. The lemon-yellow back with an olive tint effectively sets off the light yellow belly with a silvery tint. Upper front lighting will make the fish look even more attractive. The tank for it is abundantly planted with vegetation, where this small fish will hide during rest.

The lemon tetra is suitable for living in an aquarium with other fish.

Copper or Hasemania (Hasemania nana)

Up to 5 cm long, but very bright and attractive, the tetra is distinguished by its coppery, iridescent color. Females are paler than males, with a silvery body. They love densely planted tanks and live in schools. Peat or dry leaves in the water are essential. They are kept in groups of 10, which makes their behavior interesting and entertaining. Copper tetras tend to bite the fins of other fish.

They love densely planted tanks and live in schools.

Ruby tetra (Axelrodia riesei)

Peaceful, friendly ruby tetras grow up to 2 cm long. A 40-liter nano aquarium is suitable for 10 individuals. To prevent the pets from losing their bright color, peat or dry leaves are needed at the bottom of the tank – they will release tannins. Males compete with each other for territory and females.

Peaceful, friendly ruby tetras grow up to 2 cm in length.

Firefly tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus)

The colorful coloring of the firefly tetra will not leave anyone indifferent. The fish's body has a peach or olive iridescent hue. A distinctive feature is a glowing red or golden stripe running along the body. They behave well when kept in groups of 5-8 in a mini aquarium. They are compatible with all peaceful fauna of a similar size.

A distinctive feature is a glowing red or golden stripe running along the body.

Glass Tetra (Prionobrama filigera)

Glass tetras are interesting for their behavior. They swim in dense schools, which makes watching them extremely fascinating. These unpretentious tetras have transparent bodies with a silvery hue and bright red tail fins. They grow up to 6 cm long. Males sometimes compete with each other without harming their fellow fish.

Glass tetras are interesting for their behavior.

Fon-rio (Hyphessobrycon flammeus)

The fire tetra grows up to 3 cm in length and is distinguished by its fiery red rear body. When stressed or frightened, the fish's coloration fades significantly. Therefore, beginner aquarists tend to avoid buying this fish. Undemanding in terms of living conditions, peaceful, and calm, the fon-rio deserves close attention.

The fire tetra grows up to 3 cm in length and is distinguished by its fiery red rear body.

Elachys (Hyphessobrycon elachys)

These tiny fish live in schools of 4 or more. They require 20-25 liters of water. These unpretentious fish, up to 2 cm in size, are distinguished by their delicate coloration with a blue tint on the tail. They get along well with small, friendly fish.

They get along well with small, friendly fish.

Formosa (Heterandria formosa)

A good option for beginner aquarists, it does not require special conditions and is content with little. They look like neon tetras, but are smaller. Formosa tetras are suitable for keeping in microaquariums, which serve as decorations for tables, shelves, etc.

A good choice for beginner aquarists

Epiplatys annulatus

A small representative of the underwater fauna, growing up to 3.5 cm, with bright coloring. The cream color of the body is divided by yellow and black stripes. The fins are either bright red or blue. Epiplegis requires soft, warm water with a high acid content, as well as floating plants on the surface. It is best to keep these fish in families. In a group, males tend to compete with each other without causing injury.

A small representative of the underwater fauna, growing up to 3.5 cm

What fish to keep in small aquariums, and in what combinations

In the smallest aquariums up to 5 liters, one male or two formosa, neons can be successfully kept. You can leave it without pets, decorating it with underwater succulents and other low plants.

a 10-liter tank will be decorated with:

• 4 cardinals, guppies, or neons;
• 3-4 cockerels;
• a school of micro rasboras – about 10 individuals;
• 5-6 blue-eyed normans.

In such a small water space, it is not worth placing several different species of fish. It is better to set up a mono-aquarium. However, in a 20-liter tank, you can easily keep a total of 10 guppies and danios, 8 neon tetras and 6 cockerels, 2 tetras and 10 guppies. You can also keep one species of fish here:

• a male cockerel with 3 females;
• up to 15 guppies;
• up to 7 cardinals;
• up to 12 neon tetras;
• 20 micro rasboras.

In a 20-liter tank, you can easily keep up to 12 neon tetras

The following will feel good in a 30-liter tank:

• 5-6 barbs;
• up to 15 cardinals;
• up to 25 danios, neon tetras;
• up to 3 macropods;
• 3 apistogramma.

In a small tank, it is easy to monitor the behavior and well-being of the fish and react to changes in time. This is a good option for beginners who want to learn aquarium keeping.

But even the smallest fish require attention and careful treatment. The most important thing when caring for them is to keep the water clean and maintain its parameters by checking its acidity and hardness. You will also need to maintain a certain water temperature, taking into account the needs of your pets. Provide aeration if necessary.

Aquarium fish should not be kept in cramped conditions in a small aquarium. It is very important to follow the rules of compatibility and the needs of the inhabitants. For example, if they need soil at the bottom, this condition must be provided.

Aquarium fish should not be kept in cramped conditions in a small aquarium.

If you want to add color to your aquarium but are limited in space or just starting out, small bright fish are the perfect choice. Not only are they beautiful, but they are also quite easy to care for. This selection includes 46 miniature species that live in small tanks, get along with other inhabitants, and delight with their rich colors: from the smallest neons and dwarf gouramis to colorful danios and exotic rasboras. Check them out and choose the ones that will best fit into your underwater world.

What fish can be kept alone in a round aquarium

Round nano aquariums are a mesmerizing and calming interior decoration. But what kind of fish can you keep in them to watch? Of course, they should be unpretentious, able to exist alone, bright, and attractive.

Most often, cockerels are kept in round tanks. With their combative nature, they do not get along well with their relatives, so they feel comfortable alone. In a small amount of water, the cockerel feels natural, delighting with its activity and colorful, bright coloring. A blue, green, yellow, or red cockerel will decorate a tabletop aquarium.

The recently bred selective veiltail form of the cockerel is particularly attractive. At higher water temperatures, the fish changes its color to a more expressive, saturated one. The shade of its scales also depends on its emotional state!

Feeding small fish

Small aquarium fish have their own feeding characteristics. Under no circumstances should they be overfed. Otherwise, serious gastrointestinal disorders will occur, which can even lead to the death of the pets. The principle here is that it is better to underfeed than overfeed. It is enough to feed the miniature inhabitants of your home pond 1-2 times a day in small portions. Even fasting days will be beneficial for them.

Feed is selected according to the needs and tastes of a particular species of fish. It can be based on plant or animal components. You can always use specialized feed designed to meet the nutritional needs of marine inhabitants.

It is enough to feed the miniature inhabitants of your home pond 1-2 times a day

As you can see, the world of small aquarium fish is incredibly diverse. There are options for everyone: from bright neons that set the pace to calm and tiny catfish that masterfully clean the bottom. By choosing your pets, you can create a real living picture in your aquarium, full of movement and color.

The main thing to remember is that even the smallest fish need proper care. Be sure to consider the compatibility of species, the required volume of water, and their behavioral characteristics. Then your home mini-ecosystem will be healthy and harmonious.

We hope this overview has inspired you to create your own unique underwater world. Observing the lives of these tiny creatures is an amazing hobby that brings a lot of peace and joy. Good luck choosing your new colorful neighbors!