10 Beautiful and Low-Maintenance Fishes for Home Aquariums

Many of us love the idea of having pets, but the time and effort they require can be overwhelming—especially with busy lifestyles. That’s where aquarium fish come in. They’re quiet, calming to watch, and some species are surprisingly easy to care for. A well-maintained aquarium can add life to your space without demanding constant attention. If you’re new to fishkeeping or simply want a low-fuss setup, the key is to choose fish that are both hardy and visually appealing.

Here’s a list of 10 beautiful, low-maintenance fish species that are perfect for home aquariums—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned aquarist looking for low-effort options.

1. Betta Fish

Known for their flowing fins and bold colours, Betta fish are a top choice for solo tanks. They thrive in low-flow water and don’t need a large space to stay healthy. Bettas are available in a variety of colours including shades of red, blue, and purple. They’re relatively easy to care for, provided they’re kept alone or with compatible tank mates.

2. Zebra Danios

These active swimmers have striking horizontal stripes that give them their name. Zebra Danios are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, which makes them ideal for community tanks. They do well in groups and add constant movement to your aquarium.

3. Mollies

Mollies are peaceful, social fish that come in many different colours and tail shapes. They’re adaptable to both freshwater and slightly brackish environments. Because of their calm temperament and ability to adjust to various water conditions, they’re great for both beginners and mixed-species tanks.

4. Platies

Platies are cheerful little fish that come in a variety of vibrant colours. They’re peaceful, low-maintenance, and do well in most community tanks. These fish are social and get along with other non-aggressive species, making them a popular choice for home aquariums.

5. Neon Tetras

With their glowing blue and red stripes, Neon Tetras are small but visually striking. They prefer to swim in schools and are very peaceful. As long as the water is stable and the tank isn’t overstocked, they’re easy to care for and perfect for community setups.

6. Pygmy Corydoras Catfish

These tiny bottom-dwellers are both adorable and useful. Pygmy Corydoras are peaceful, social fish that enjoy being in groups. They help keep the tank clean by eating leftover food on the substrate. Their hardy nature makes them a reliable choice for beginners.

7. Guppies

Guppies are known for their bright colours, flowing tails, and lively behaviour. They’re adaptable to different water conditions and breed easily—so you may find your tank population growing before long. Their active swimming and ease of care make them a favourite among fishkeepers.

8. White Cloud Mountain Minnows

These small, shimmering fish are excellent for unheated or nano tanks. White Cloud Mountain Minnows are peaceful, resilient, and prefer cooler water, which makes them unique among tropical species. They do best in groups and add subtle beauty to any setup.

9. Cherry Barbs

Cherry Barbs stand out for their deep red colouring and gentle nature. They’re schooling fish that feel most secure in groups, especially in well-planted tanks. Easy to care for and generally peaceful, they can thrive in a variety of setups.

10. Swordtails

Recognizable by their long, sword-like tail extensions, Swordtails are active, colourful, and fairly easy to maintain. They’re peaceful but enjoy space to swim, so a slightly larger tank is ideal. Their ability to adapt to different water conditions makes them a reliable option for beginners.

Each species listed here brings its own charm and colour to an aquarium while keeping upkeep to a minimum. With just a bit of attention to water quality and feeding routines, you can enjoy a beautiful, calming aquatic world right in your living room.