Top 10 Low-Maintenance Fish for Planted Aquariums

Fish aquariums continue to grow into a respected art, allowing people to transform their living rooms into aquascapes. One of the essential elements of successful fishkeeping is choosing the right type of fish for an aquarium. 

In my case, I always recommend that novices select species that should live in a planted tank because they will not only tolerate plants but also have an overall positive effect on the planted area. 

Here, you will find out the list of the top 10 recommended fish-friendly for planted aquariums, especially for beginners in the marine bio hobby.

1. Neon Tetra (Paracheirodon innesi)

Neon tetras scientifically known as “Paracheirodon innesi” are colorful and best suited for aquariums that contain plants. They are best suited for community settings since they are small in size and less aggressive. The Siamese cats are comfortable within the range of 70°F to 81°F and enjoy wading through plants. 

Neon tetras bring a good dose of brightness to an aquarium at school and the only measure to use neon tetras successfully is to keep them in groups of six or more.

2. Guppy (Poecilia reticulata)

Guppies also known as “Poecilia reticulata” are one of the best fish for a planted tank due to the fish’s personalities and color. They are relatively adaptable to many water situations and are capable of tolerating temperatures of 23°C to 28°C. 

Guppy being live bearers come with pregnancy carriage, so expect baby guppies in a well-set-up aquarium. These creatures also encourage a rather active environment at the bottom of the sea.

3. Corydoras Catfish (Corydoras spp.)

Corydoras catfish continue from the “Corydoras” genus, and they are small ground-dwelling fish that are ideal for different community containers. Harmless and gregarious most species are found in groups. This improvement in the planted tank ecosystem is because Corydoras feed on decomposing pieces of food on the substrate and this reduces the contamination of the substrate. 

It applies to just slightly warmer water, with the preferred temperature range ranging between 72-78°F; Additionally, well-planted fish create an excellent option.

4. Betta Fish (Betta splendens)

While many aquarists believe that betta fish, or “Betta splendens” for that matter, should be housed individually, this species can thrive in a planted aquarium provided the right conditions are created. 113 They are adapted to water with a temperature range of 75°F to 80°F and require many shelters and coverings among the planted structures. 

Pet male bettas are aggressive at times especially when they hold water territories so you can keep them in something like solitary or very calm aquarium counterparts, thanks to wonderfully developed fins, and the bright and beautiful colors, they will look great in a planted aquarium.

5. Celestial Pearl Danio (Danio margaritatus)

The celestial pearl danio, or “Danio margaritatus”, also called the galaxy rasbora, is a small delicate shoaling fish suitable for the small planted aquarium. It is relatively easy to maintain and the plants’ recommended temperature range is 73°F to 79°F. 

These are somewhat shy fishes that should be introduced in groups to improve their colors with schooling as they freely swim amidst the plants. They are very shy fish that will be best grouped in a quiet tank for them to make good partners.

6. Platies (Xiphophorus maculates)

Platies, scientifically known as “Xiphophorus maculatus”, are very tolerant fish and are available in numerous colors that will brighten up the planted aquarium. They are that they are livebearers and that the fish are suited to almost any condition of the water in which they are implanted. 

Platies are healthy at water temperatures of about 70°F to 80°F and are generally non-aggressive, so they should be kept in a community aquarium. This active fish brightens your aquarium, and many of them are best kept in groups of at least three fish.

7. Zebra Danio (Danio rerio)

This species is one of FishBase species’ least concern species, with the scientific name of *Danio rerio*. Such fish are more famous for their bright and joyful appearance having peculiar strap lining, which wouldn’t mind living in various kinds of water with the temperature varying from 64 to 75 F. 

It is an active swimmer, with a good aptitude to create waves in the tank; and it is fairly compatible with most ornamental fishes. That’s why they can be a good recommendation while you establish yourself in terms of aquarium ownership.

8. Ember Tetra (Hyphessobrycon Amanda)

Ember tetras scientifically called “Hyphessobrycon Amanda” are small, colorful fishes that should be kept in a planted aquarium. They are sensitive to water temperature and prefer water between 72°F and 82°F These temperatures are sociable substrates and they do well in small groups. 

Due to their peaceful nature and small size they are best suited for community fish tanks and their presence helps beautify the environment with lots of action and color.

9. Endler’s Livebearer (Poecilia wingei)

In a similar way to guppies, Endler’s livebearers, Poecilia wingei, are small, lively fish that are ideal for newly planted aquariums. They grow best in temperatures of 68 to 78F or 20 to 26C and are probably one of the most versatile of all plants. 

These fish are relatively non-aggressive and should therefore be best kept in small schools if their active and inquisitive nature is to be promoted. The brightness of their hue will give you the exciting look of a planted aquarium tank.

10. Otocinclus (Otocinclus spp.)

In the case of algae control in your live planted tank, you will find Otocinclus catfish from the genus *Otocinclus* to be ideal for cleaning the tank. They prefer water slightly warmer than that for the majority of the tropical aquarium fish, and they feed on algae which makes them nice additions to the general community aquarium. These fishes are very peaceful and small enough that they will not harm the plants in an established tank.

FAQs

What is the lowest maintenance aquarium fish?

Indeed, betta fish are widely believed as one of the least demanding fish to maintain in an aquarium tank. They are best suited to smaller tanks and are unfussy in terms of maintenance, thus suitable for inexperienced aquarists.

What fish are best for planted tanks?

Neon Tetras and Zebra Danio are appropriate for decorated aquaria because they like rather dense vegetation. Corydoras Catfish also assist in providing cleanliness of the tank and are also low-temperament fish. Guppy as well are useful in managing the tank and are low impact on other fish.

Conclusion

Developing a sustainable planted aquarium requires one to choose fish properly. The above-listed species should ideally be used to start with because they are uncomplicated, non-aggressive, and add a certain grace to a planted tank. So, once your fish are in a welcoming environment teeming with plants, you are ready to begin the vastly exciting hobby of aquariums. Happy diving!