Everyone loves keeping and caring for their pets. For some, it is a dog, and others keep cats. But fish can be one of the best pets as well.
They need a good-sized aquarium to thrive and an apt water temperature for a good fish lifespan. Besides this, they must be fed at regular intervals with adaptable food items to maintain their health. Despite all the care, some fishes live longer in aquariums, while others succumb to the place because of their shorter lifespans. but one question that comes to mind is which fish lives longer in an aquarium?
If you plan to buy a fish as a pet, you must check different parameters and categories that adapt to life in an aquarium.
What is an Aquarium?
An aquarium is a box of glass and other required materials to keep fish as pets. From exotic and small sizes to medium or slightly big ones, you need the right-sized aquarium to let the fishes have ample swimming space.
It is important to note that aquariums should be equipped with fresh water, filtration tanks, aquarium heater, test strips, and air pumps. With all these factors in mind, you can extend the lifespan of aquarium fish.
Certainly, you must keep some water plants in the aquarium to give a breathable space to your fish. It should be noted that aquatic plants are mandatory to maintain the oxygen level in the waters. So you should buy the aquarium per the number of fish to be kept in them.
It is worth to be noted that the global ornamental fish market was valued at USD 5.88 billion in 2022 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% from 2023 to 2030.
Discover Which Fish Lives Longer In An Aquarium – Fish Species with Long Lifespan
Aquariums can be a great way to bring some of the beauty and mystery of the ocean into your home, and one of the best ways to do that is by introducing fish with a long lifespan. Common fish species with a long lifespan in aquariums include Goldfish, Guppies, Catfish, Plecostomus, and Clown Loach.
These fish are resilient and can be kept in the right conditions for many years. With proper care, these fish can live for up to 10 years and longer, providing your aquarium with years of enjoyment.
| Fish Species | Family | Origin | Size | Tank Size | Adaptable Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goldfish | Carp | China | 4.5 to 16 inches | Minimum 30 gallons | 68 to 74 Fahrenheit |
| Betta Fish | Osphronemidae | South-East Asia | 3 inches | Minimum 3 gallons | 72 to 82 Fahrenheit |
| Clownfish | Pomacentridae | Australia and South East Asia | 2 to 5 inches | 20 gallons | 75 to 80 Fahrenheit |
| Guppies | Poeciliidae | South America | 1.5 to 2.5 inches | 10 to 20 gallons | 74 to 82 Fahrenheit |
| Catfish | Ictaluridae | Northern America | 12 to 24 inches | 10 to 30 gallons | 70 to 78 Fahrenheit |
| Angel Fish | Cichlidae | Central and South America | 6 to 8 inches | 20 to 30 gallons | 75 to 82 Fahrenheit |
#1 Gold Fish
The most beloved goldfish has known descendants of Prussian. The common pair of goldfish is one of the most popular freshwater fish, or in other words, it is the best fish for beginners. Their growth can extend to 18 inches, weighing about ten pounds.
The goldfish types include the common goldfish, comet goldfish, Sarasa comet goldfish, shubunkin goldfish, and fantail goldfish. Each type of goldfish has unique characteristics and is suitable for different aquariums. The common goldfish is peaceful fish, hence more popular.
You will be amazed to know that The Guinness World Record for the longest-living goldfish (Fish Title) is held by a goldfish named Tish, who lived for 43 years in the UK.
If you are planning to buy pet gold fish, it should be noted that they are most suited for slightly bigger aquariums and not regular fish bowls. The reason is that they can survive only for 5 years in a fish bowl. But, the lifespan of goldfish increases to 10 years with a 20-gallon fish tank.
| Family | Carp |
| Origin | China |
| Size | 4.5 to 16 inches |
| Tank Size | Minimum 30 gallons |
| Adaptable Temperature | 68 to 74 Fahrenheit |
#2 Betta Fish
This Siamese fish is known more as the warrior and can be seen in vibrant and beautiful colors. Originally bred for fighting, they are called “pla-kad” in Thai, which means “fighting fish.”
Betta fishes have individual personalities, so if you wish to keep Betta Fish as your pet, they should be kept solo because of their inability to adapt with other fishes.
There are chances that they may fight with other fish. It is also important to understand that their meal consists of brine shrimp or dried bloodworms. They are suitable for normal-sized glass-manufactured aquariums.
| Family | Osphronemidae |
| Origin | South-East Asia |
| Size | 3 inches |
| Tank Size | Minimum 3 gallons |
| Adaptable Temperature | 72 to 82 Fahrenheit |
#3 Clown Fish
One of the most popular species for aquarium owners is the orange-colored white-band clownfish. This saltwater fish is social and like to live in a group. It can grow from 3 to 4 inches.
The beauty of clownfish lies in their bright colors, which makes them appealing.
The best part is that these fishes communicate in a distinctive style. They use clicking and popping noises to communicate with their fellow clownfish. Being omnivores in nature, you should include plant-based food and meat in your diet plan to give an excellent lifetime of fish.
| Family | Pomacentridae |
| Origin | Australia and South East Asia |
| Size | 2 to 5 inches |
| Tank Size | 20 gallons |
| Adaptable Temperature | 75 to 80 Fahrenheit |
#4 Guppies
Guppies are stunning freshwater, thanks to their exotic colors. They are tame fishes that thrive in freshwater. Indeed, the male Guppies are slightly smaller in size as compared to their female counterparts. The reason is that they are plumer and tend to grow to double the size of male guppies.
It is their flowing fin that defines them as guppies. What makes them famous is that they are available in more than 300 varieties of colors and patterns.
| Family | Poeciliidae |
| Origin | South America |
| Size | 1.5 to 2.5 inches |
| Tank Size | 10 to 20 gallons |
| Adaptable Temperature | 74 to 82 Fahrenheit |
#5 Cat Fish
With a lifespan ranging from seven to fifteen years, a catfish pet can survive well in an aquarium. You are required to take proper care of them in the matter of diet and cleaning of aquariums regularly.
The best factor is that they prefer to live in brackish water groups of at least three or even more.
Taking note of their habitat, the small catfish species need an aquarium with 5 to 10 gallons of water. On the other hand, the adult size needs an aquarium to hold 30 gallons of water. Of course, the aquarium must be kept away from direct sunlight for armored catfish and other related species.
| Family | Ictaluridae |
| Origin | Northern America |
| Size | 12 to 24 inches |
| Tank Size | 10 to 30 gallons |
| Adaptable Temperature | 70 to 78 Fahrenheit |
#6 Angel Fish
As a freshwater-colored fish, Angelfish is a native of Colombia, Peru, Guyana, Brazil, and French Guiana. Taking note of their growth, angelfishes are known to grow from 6 to 8 inches. In fact, they have a tight and thin body that helps them to swim faster.
If you check the color variations in such fishes, they range from silver to colored stripes and blackish-silver marble. One thing to check about them is that they do not get along with smaller-sized fish in aquariums. They do not get along with smaller-sized fishes in the aquariums.
| Family | Cichlidae |
| Origin | South America |
| Size | 6 inches |
| Tank Size | 20 to 50 gallons |
| Adaptable Temperature | 75 to 84 Fahrenheit |
Tips for Ensuring that Your Fish Lives Longer in the Aquarium
- Regular Water Changes and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential when keeping fish in a home aquarium. Change the water weekly to remove waste that can harm the fish’s health. Fish owners must prioritize aquarium maintenance to ensure the well-being of their pets.
- Adequate Space, Lighting, and Temperature
For a home aquarium, prevent overcrowding, giving fish space to swim freely and avoid collisions. Maintain water temperature and check pH levels based on specific fish requirements. Install lights for fish visibility in the dark.
- Appropriate Feeding Habits
Besides cleaning and temperature maintenance, provide proper nutrition for your pet fish. Dietary needs vary by species, with some eating plants and others needing a mix of plants and meat. Offer a balanced diet with options like frozen fish food, flakes, and fresh foods to enhance the lifespan of your aquarium fish.
- Proactive Disease Prevention
When you are keeping fish in an aquarium, taking care of their health is necessary. So, cleaning, removing wastes, caring for plants, and checking water levels are mandatory to prevent fish diseases. The fish waste left in the tank for some time can take a toll on the fish’s health.
- Monitoring Health Regularly
When it comes to monitoring the health of the fish daily, it is important that they need to be fed on time. Of course, you can consult a veterinarian about the quantity of food to be given. It should be noted that the diet plan for every type of fish is different. So you can talk to the doctor and plan the diet for your pet fish properly.
Conclusion
Home aquariums have become a popular way to find tranquility and reduce stress. In today’s busy world, many people experience tension and mental issues. Having an aquarium at home offers a calming activity of watching fish swim, promoting relaxation. Additionally, keeping fish as pets aligns with feng shui principles. Ensure the health and longevity of your aquarium fish by caring for their well-being and following a proper diet plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the easiest fish to keep alive in an aquarium?
One of the most famous fish to be kept in aquariums is neon tetra because it is a small and thin-sized fish. It is also easy to take care of and has a good lifespan. After discussing it with the veterinarian, all you have to do is give them a proper diet.
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Which is the longest-living fish in captivity?
Known for living in Australian waters and famed as a lungfish, Methuselah is the healthiest and longest-living aquarium fish. It weighs 40 pounds, is 4 feet long, and has managed to live for about 90 years. Right now, the fish is in San Francisco, United States of America.
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What are 3 living things that a fish needs to survive?
A fish needs proper food, clean water, and safe shelter to survive better. In fact, fishes get oxygen from the water itself, which helps them to breathe in the aquarium.
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How long does a fish live?
Depending on the feeding routine, the fish may live from 4 years to 20 years. It depends on the food given to them and the clean environment provided. Goldfish are known to live the longest for about 20 years.
