Properly Maintaining The PH In A Freshwater Aquarium
Maybe your like
X Navigation - RATE PHOTOS
- TOP 10 PHOTOS
- GALLERY
- TOOLS
- FRESHWATER GUIDE
- SALTWATER GUIDE
Written by Kate Barrington Updated June 16, 2021 Learn how about pH and how to properly maintain it in a freshwater aquarium. When it comes to maintaining water quality in your freshwater aquarium, pH is a significant factor. The pH of your tap water may not be ideal for the type of fish in your tank, so you need to learn how to test the pH and alter it, if necessary. If you find that there is a major difference between the pH of your water right out of the tap and the pH of your water after 24-48 hours, the easiest way to do water changes and not stress your fish is to buy a bucket or two, fill them up with water, add an airstone to each, and let the water sit out for 24-48 hours. The pH will then be adjusted to its actual value and you can use the water for your water change. The Basics of pH The pH of water is measured on a scale that ranges from 0 to 14. A pH level of 7.0 is said to be neutral while values below 7.0 are acidic and values above 7.0 are alkaline. The pH level of a body water varies according to a variety of factors including chemical concentration, the present of trace minerals, even the type of substrate. This being the case, different species of fish are adapted to different pH levels – the level that works for one fish might not work for another species of fish. This is why it is incredibly important that you do some research before you add any fish to your tank – you need to be sure that you know what pH levels they require and that the different species in your tank are compatible in this way. If you do not provide your fish with the right pH level, they may become stressed and could fall ill as a result. How to Test Your Tap Water’s pH Many hobbyists test their tap water right away for pH. However, this is not a good indication of your “true” pH. To properly measure your tap water’s pH, pour some tap water into a bucket and place an air stone in the bucket to agitate the surface (to oxygenate the water). Then let this bucket of water sit out for 24 hours. After this, test the water for its pH. It is then a good idea to check it after 48 hours to see if there is any additional change. These values measured after 24-48 hours are an accurate measure of the “true” pH of your tap water. So, why do you have to leave the water out for 24-48 hours? Carbon dioxide in the water causes the pH to drop. By exposing your tap water to the air and agitating the surface, you are causing a gas exchange at the surface of the water (oxygen goes from the air to the water while carbon dioxide goes from the water to the air). This exchange reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in your water and causes the pH to rise. This pH will be the actual one you will measure in your tank (assuming there are no other objects/chemicals in the tank impacting the pH) as the oxygen/carbon dioxide exchange occurs in your aquarium constantly. How pH Impacts Other Compounds The pH of your tank water has an impact on several aspects of water quality and water chemistry. For instance, if your pH drops below 6.0, the nitrification bacteria that keep your ammonia and nitrites (toxic compounds to fish) at zero ppm, will begin to die off. This can cause your tank to re-cycle and kill your fish in the process if they are not hardy enough. The toxicity of ammonia is also largely dictated by your pH. The total ammonia in your tank is a combination of ammonium ions (NH4+) and ammonia (NH3). The pH of your water is the major factor in the relative concentrations of these two compounds. More ammonia (the more toxic of the two compounds) will be present in alkaline water (pH above 7.0) while more ammonium ions (the less toxic of the two compounds) will be present in acidic water (pH below 7.0). Therefore, you need to remember that as you raise the pH, you are making the any ammonia in the tank more toxic to your fish. It is because of this that pH adjustments during the cycling phase of your aquarium are not recommended. After the cycle is completed, there should not be any ammonia in your tank anyways. The Relationship Between pH and kH A kH level is a measurement of the carbonate hardness of your water. In other words, it measures the concentration of carbonate and bicarbonate ions in your aquarium. kH also indicates your water’s buffering capacity – your water’s ability to neutralize added acids without significantly changing the pH. Therefore, a higher kH corresponds to a more stable pH in your aquarium and a lower kH can correspond to large swings in the pH. Generally, if your kH is below 4.5 odH, you need to closely monitor your pH for large changes. You will also need to be more consistent in your water changes as the low kH will cause the pH in your aquarium to consistently drop with time. Frequent water changes are the best way to keep the pH up to an appropriate level. Check Your Test Kit The best way to keep track of the pH in your aquarium is to purchase and use an aquarium test kit. You can buy these test kits at your local pet store or order them online. Test kits come in several different forms – one uses a test solution to change the color of a water sample based on the characteristic being tested. A second type of test kit involves dipping a strip of test paper into a water sample and then comparing the color to a chart included with the kit. Unfortunately, it is easy to misuse a test kit and to get an incorrect reading. This can be especially frustrating as it may cause you to think there is a pH problem when there actually is not. Therefore, if you are getting a reading that is either too low or too high for your taste, the first step is to investigate your measurement methodology. Most test kits have a shelf life (usually 6 months). If your test kit is older than this, it may be providing inaccurate results. Also, be sure to follow the directions exactly. I have heard of people shaking a bottle for 30 seconds instead of a minute and this causing an error in the test. Follow the test exactly as it was written. If you are sure the kit is not out of date and that you followed the directions exactly then you can be confident that you are obtaining an accurate reading of the pH. As another back-up method, you can also take a sample of your tank water to your local pet store to have it tested (often for free). Ways to Raise Your pH As stated above, it is generally a better idea to acclimate your fish to the pH of your water than to adjust your water to suit the pH preference of your fish. However, some people still like to match the natural environment as close as possible or have a pH that is way outside the range that is acceptable to their specific species. If this is the case, there are several methods you can use to raise the pH level in your tank. ● Water Changes – Over time, the pH in your aquarium will drop. The most effective method to raise it back up to the level of your tap water is to simply perform regular water changes. If you do not regularly do water changes, you may need to do several smaller ones rather than one large one (each separated by 24 hours) so that you do not shock the fish by making them go from a low pH to a high one immediately. Vacuuming all of the uneaten food and waste will also help to counter the tendency for the pH to drop over time. ● Rocks or substrate - Add some rock work or substrate to the aquarium that has the effect of raising the pH. For example, crushed coral is used as the substrate in many African cichlid tanks (African cichlids prefer a high pH). Limestone and petrified coral will also do the trick. If you do not want to add these rocks to your aquascaping, you can add a bag of crushed coral to your filter or hide some of these rocks behind the rocks you do want to showcase. Be very careful when using this method, however, because it could raise the pH in your tank beyond the appropriate level. ● Aeration – Increasing the oxygen concentration in your water will serve to drive down the carbon dioxide concentration. As discussed above, less carbon dioxide translates to a higher pH. Therefore, you can increase the aeration in the tank to raise the pH. To read about aerating your aquarium, reference the article entitled Properly Aerating your Aquarium in the article section of this website. ● Baking soda – Adding baking soda will raise the pH, but remember that this will need to be constantly added (you cannot just add it once and forget about it). You also need to be careful not to add too much at one time and cause a severe spike as this could kill your fish. It is best to gradually adjust the pH if you decide it must be adjusted. A general rule is 1 teaspoon per 5 gallons. Dissolve the baking soda in some water before adding it to the tank. Also remember that the above ratio of 1 teaspoon per 5 gallons is just a rule of thumb. For your specific case, take it slowly so you do not shock or kill your fish. ● Shells – Adding shells to your aquarium will raise the pH. ● Removing Anything that May be Lowering the pH – Below is a list of ways to lower the pH in your aquarium. Study this list to see if you are accidently using any of these methods and getting a low pH as a result. For example, maybe you placed a piece of drift wood in your tank without realizing it would lower the pH. If this is causing you problems, remove the drift wood. ● Chemicals – There are several commercial buffers currently available on the market. However, these are generally not recommended as they can lead to large spikes in your pH and usually only serve as a temporary fix. They will not in general, maintain the pH in your aquarium. However, if you have tried everything else and nothing is working, the buffers may do the trick. Ways to Lower Your pH Lowering the pH in a freshwater aquarium is often more difficult than raising it. There are some methods you can try though. ● Filter Through Peat Moss – Filtering through peat moss is the most effective way to lower your pH. Some people also use peat moss in their substrate for the same effect. ● Add Carbon Dioxide – As we have talked about multiple times, increasing the carbon dioxide in your tank lowers the pH. Therefore, pumping in more carbon dioxide would result in a lower pH. ● Add Wood – Many types of driftwoods will lower the pH. To read more about using wood in your aquarium read the article on this site entitled Adding Rocks and Wood to Your Freshwater Aquarium. ● Chemicals – There are many products on the market today that will lower your pH. However, just like the chemicals that raise the pH, these pH lowering compounds do not maintain a stable pH. Conclusion Though your aquarium fish may prefer a particularly pH in their native environment, it is much more important to have a stable pH than to have a specific value for your pH. Adjusting the pH in your aquarium can be dangerous to the fish as swings of just 0.3 in a day can be deadly. Therefore, unless you have a specific reason for doing so, it is better to acclimate the fish to your tap water’s pH than to adjust your pH to fit the preference of your fish. PREVIOUSARTICLE 
Freshwater Fishless Cycling Learn about new methods for cycling your freshwater aquarium without fish. NEXTARTICLE 
Choosing and Conditioning the Water in Your Aquarium Learn about how to properly choose and condition the water you use in your freshwater aquarium. MOST RECENT ARTICLES
FATHER FISH–STYLE NATURAL AQUARIUMS: WHAT BEGINNERS SHOULD KNOW Natural aquariums are often described as “set it and forget it,” but the truth is calmer and more practical: you trade constant cleaning for thoughtful setup, steady habits, and time. 
COMMUNITY FISH COMPATIBILITY GUIDE Creating a thriving community aquarium is one of the most rewarding aspects of the fish-keeping hobby, but it requires much more than simply picking out the most colorful fish at the local pet store. 
FISHLESS CYCLING VS FISH-IN CYCLING: WHICH METHOD IS BEST FOR YOUR AQUARIUM? Setting up a new aquarium is one of the most exciting moments in the fishkeeping hobby—but it’s also where most beginners unintentionally make mistakes that lead to stressed fish, disease outbreaks, or early losses. Rate This Tank:
FRESHWATER AQUARIUM ARTICLES
Freshwater Water Parameter Guide (Complete 2025 Edition) Keeping your aquarium water stable is the foundation of fish health. 
Top 10 Beginner-Friendly Freshwater Fish (With Care & Compatibility Tips) Starting a freshwater aquarium? 
African Cichlid Aggression - How to Reduce Aggression Learn about the causes of cichlid aggression and methods for reducing it. 
Live Plant Basics for Freshwater Community Aquariums 
Pea Puffer Care and Compatibility: Stocking Plans That Actually Work Pea Puffers may be tiny, but they have huge personalities. 
Guppy Care Guide: How to Successfully Keep Guppies in a Freshwater Aquarium Guppies are one of the most popular freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby—and for good reason. 
How to Interpret Fish Food Labels Standing in front of a wall of fish food can feel overwhelming—bright packaging, bold claims, and ingredient lists that read more like a chemistry exam than a feeding guide. Read more articles (7) AQUARIUM MAINTENANCE
Aquarium maintenance is the key to keeping your tank healthy. The articles in this category will help you learn how to maintain your tank properly.
How to Make Your Own Tank Divider There may come a time during your career as an aquarium hobbyist that you need to divide your tank. 
The Process of Cycling a Fish Tank Cycling a fish tank is the single most important step in setting up a healthy aquarium, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood by beginners. 
What to do About Aquarium Snail Infestations If you’ve ever noticed small shells creeping across your aquarium glass or multiplying on your decorations, you might be dealing with a snail infestation. 
Properly Maintaining the pH in a Freshwater Aquarium Learn how about pH and how to properly maintain it in a freshwater aquarium. 
Water Testing in Your Freshwater Aquarium How to test your aquarium's water, and what to look for. 
Using a Gravel Vacuum in the Home Aquarium A gravel vacuum is one of the simplest tools in aquarium keeping, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood. 
Preparing an Aquarium for Your Vacation Learn how to prepare your aquarium for your upcoming on vacation. 
Controlling Algae Growth Algae growth is one of the most common — and frustrating — challenges aquarium hobbyists face, whether you’re running a freshwater community tank or a full reef setup. 
Fish Tank Maintenance and Cleaning In order to keep your tank clean and healthy for your fish, you will need to perform some basic daily and weekly maintenance tasks. 
Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Your Tank Filter Your tank filter is perhaps the most important piece of equipment you have, so be sure to keep it clean as part of your routine maintenance schedule. Choosing and Conditioning the Water in Your Aquarium Learn about how to properly choose and condition the water you use in your freshwater aquarium. 
Can a Routine Water Change Kill Your Fish? We've all seen it - fish die unexpectedly after a water change. 
Aquarium Water Test Kits The key to keeping your aquarium fish happy and healthy is to maintain high water quality. 
Tips for Protecting Your Aquarium Against High Summer Temperatures During the summer months, it may become more of a challenge to keep your aquarium temperature stable. Freshwater Fishless Cycling Learn about new methods for cycling your freshwater aquarium without fish. 
Cleaning Algae off Tank Glass Properly Algae-covered aquarium glass is one of the most common frustrations for beginner and intermediate fishkeepers. 
How to Fix Cloudy Tank Water Cloudy tank water is a common problem in the freshwater aquarium. 
Summer Precautions for Freshwater Tanks - Keeping Your Tank from Overheating Keeping the temperature in your tank is extremely important for the health of your fish but it can be a challenge during the hot summer months. Read more articles (18) Aquarium Setup (17) 
An Overview of Fish Bowls Fish bowls are one of the most recognizable symbols of fishkeeping, often associated with simplicity, minimal effort, and a single fish gently swimming in a clear glass sphere. 
What is an Unfiltered Tank and How do I Cultivate One? An unfiltered tank is a unique challenge - you will learn the basics for how to get started in this article. 
Setting Up a Hospital Tank: Step-by-Step 14-Day Treatment Plan Every aquarist should have a hospital tank—also called a quarantine or treatment tank. 
Wall Mounted Fish Tanks Advantages and disadvantages to a Wall Mounted Fish Tank. 
Cultivating an Amazon Biotope Tank If you’ve ever been captivated by the lush rivers and flooded forests of the Amazon Basin, setting up an Amazon biotope tank lets you bring a slice of this incredible ecosystem into your home aquarium. 
Acclimating Fish - Drip Method Bringing home new fish is one of the most exciting moments in the aquarium hobby—but it’s also one of the most dangerous times for your livestock. 
What is a Biotope Tank? Take your skills to the next level by starting a biotope tank. 
Moving - How to Prepare Your Tank for a Move Moving house is stressful enough — moving an aquarium adds a whole new layer of complexity. 
Cultivating a Healthy Discus Community Tank Discus fish are a joy to keep in the home aquarium and a discus community tank is even better! 
When and How to Upgrade to a Larger Tank If you participate in the aquarium hobby for long enough, there may come a time when it becomes necessary to upgrade to a larger tank. 
Questions to Ask Before Starting a Freshwater Fish Tank Before you go out and buy a freshwater tank, think about these questions so you are fully prepared. 
FAQs for Novice Freshwater Hobbyists Starting a freshwater aquarium is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when you’re faced with dozens of decisions about tank size, fish choices, equipment, and maintenance. 
Tips for Aquascaping a Tank for Large Freshwater Fish Keeping large species of freshwater fish in a community tank can be challenging but, with proper planning, you can be successful. 
All About Tropical Fish Tanks An overview of tropical fish tanks, what they are, and the pros/cons of keeping one. 
How to Select the Best Location for Your Tank Where you place your aquarium can quietly determine whether your tank thrives for years or becomes a source of constant frustration. 
Safety Tips for Freshwater Aquariums Cultivating a freshwater aquarium can be an enjoyable experience but there are also a number of safety concerns to be aware of when keeping a fish tank. 
How to Select a Tank for a Freshwater Aquarium If you want to have a thriving freshwater tank, you need to start by selecting the right tank. Planted Tanks (10) 
12 Aquarium Plants That Don’t Need Substrate (Perfect for Beginners) If you want easy, hardy aquarium plants that thrive without soil, gravel, or specialized substrate, you’re in luck. 
Diagnosing Problems with Aquarium Plants Healthy aquarium plants do more than just beautify your tank—they improve water quality, provide shelter for fish, and support a balanced ecosystem. 
Fish to Avoid for Planted Freshwater Tanks If you’re passionate about creating a lush, vibrant planted freshwater tank, choosing the right fish is just as important as selecting the right plants, lighting, and substrate. 
Aquatic Mosses for Freshwater Tanks Aquatic mosses are among the most versatile, forgiving, and visually appealing plants you can add to a freshwater aquarium. 
The Top 6 Species for the Planted Tank Some freshwater fish will eat their way through a planted tank in a matter of hours. 
Tips for Rooting, Pruning, and Propagating Live Aquarium Plants Live aquarium plants do far more than make a tank look beautiful—they actively improve water quality, provide shelter for fish, and create a more stable ecosystem. 
Introduction to Planted Aquariums An overview of the different styles of planted aquariums. 
Step-by-Step Guide for Setting Up a Planted Tank Cultivating a thriving planted tank can be quite a challenge and if you do not follow the proper procedure, you may not be successful. 
The Importance of Carbon Dioxide in Planted Tanks A lush, thriving planted aquarium doesn’t happen by accident. 
Freshwater Plant Article Database Articles on different freshwater plants and appropriate care. Aquarium Lighting (5) 
Choosing the Right Lighting According to Tank Size Aquarium lighting systems come in all shapes and sizes - learn how to choose the right system for the tank size you have. 
Types of Freshwater Aquarium Lighting Lighting is one of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of a freshwater aquarium. 
Understanding the Basics of Freshwater Aquarium Lighting Selecting a lighting system for your aquarium can be a difficult task. 
Understanding the Lighting Spectrum The key to finding the perfect lighting for your freshwater aquarium is to understand the basics of the lighting spectrum. 
Finding the Right Balance with Aquarium Lighting Installing the proper aquarium lighting system is essential in maintaining a thriving tank environment. Heating and Filtration (6) 
Properly Aerating Your Aquarium Whether you’re setting up your very first tank or you’ve been keeping guppies and goldfish for years, ensuring proper aeration is essential to healthy, vibrant aquarium life. 
Common Problems with Tank Filters You don’t have to be a genius to cultivate a thriving freshwater aquarium – all you need is the right tools and equipment. 
How to Make Your Own Sponge Filter Sponge filters are one of the simplest, safest, and most underrated filtration systems in the aquarium hobby—and the good news is that you don’t need to buy one to enjoy the benefits. 
Overview of Filter Media Types When you first set up your aquarium, whether it’s a freshwater community tank with neon tetras or a saltwater reef with clownfish, one of the most important but often misunderstood aspects of keeping water clear and fish healthy is filter media — the materials inside your filter that help remove waste and keep the water balanced. 
Choosing the Right Filtration System for Your Aquarium Learn about the different types of filters for your freshwater aquarium. 
Using Carbon in a Freshwater Aquarium Activated carbon is one of the most commonly used filter media in freshwater aquariums—and also one of the most misunderstood. Nutrition and Feeding (6) 
Constipation/Indigestion in Aquarium Fish Constipation and indigestion are among the most common — and most misunderstood — health problems aquarium fish face. 
How to Culture Infusoria for Baby Fish For many aquarium hobbyists, the excitement of seeing tiny fish fry quickly turns into concern when it comes time to feed them. 
Will Algae Wafers Make my Tank Water Cloudy? Algae wafers are a staple food for plecos, otocinclus, snails, and other algae-eating aquarium residents—but many hobbyists notice their tank water turning cloudy soon after feeding. 
The Pros and Cons of Live Food for Fish The type of food you choose to feed your aquarium fish will have a major impact on their health. 
The Top Commercial Foods for Freshwater Fish Feeding freshwater fish looks deceptively simple, yet nutrition is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—parts of aquarium care. 
The Nutritional Needs of Freshwater Fish The key to keeping your aquarium fish healthy is to offer them a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. Freshwater Fish Diseases (8) 
Identifying and Treating the Most Common Cichlid Diseases Cichlids are one of the largest families of freshwater fishes and they are prone to developing several aquarium fish diseases. 
What is Dropsy and How Do I Treat it? When cultivating an aquarium, you are likely to run into a variety of freshwater aquarium fish diseases and conditions including dropsy. 
How to Set Up A Hospital Tank A hospital tank is one of the most valuable tools an aquarium hobbyist can have, yet it’s often overlooked until a fish becomes sick or injured. 
Behavioral Changes and Problems in Aquarium Fish Fish rarely get the credit they deserve for communicating clearly with their owners. 
Addressing the Shimmies in Live Bearers The “shimmies” are one of the most frustrating and confusing problems aquarium hobbyists encounter with livebearer fish. 
How to Deal with the Top Betta Fish Diseases Betta fish are some of the most colorful and vibrant freshwater aquarium fish around. 
Improving Color in Aquarium Fish The best part of keeping a freshwater aquarium is watching your tank inhabitants thrive and grow. 
Common Freshwater Tropical Fish Diseases Learn about common fish illnesses and how to effectively treat them. Aquarium Decorations (5) 
Adding Rocks and Wood to Your Freshwater Aquarium Adding wood and rocks to your aquarium can enhance its appearance and make it a better environment for your fish -- learn how in this article. 
Aquarium Decorations Aquarium decorations are far more than visual extras — they shape how fish behave, reduce stress, and help recreate the natural environments aquatic species rely on. 
Selecting a Background for your Freshwater Tank Aquarium backgrounds are often treated as an afterthought, but the right background can dramatically improve the look, health, and functionality of a freshwater tank. 
Choosing a Freshwater Aquarium Substrate Learn about the factors you should consider when choosing a substrate for your freshwater aquarium. 
Using Driftwood and Live Plants in the Freshwater Tank One of the most attractive ways you can decorate an aquarium involves a combination of driftwood and live plants. Stocking the Tank (48) 
What Are the Best Cichlids for a Community Tank? Cichlids are some of the most beautiful fish in the world, but they can also be the most aggressive. 
Larger Tetras for the Community Tank Many tetras are known for their small size and peaceful nature, but there are some larger tetras that can be a good choice for the community tank. 
Choosing the Right Algae-Eater by the Type of Algae in Your Tank There are many different types of aquarium algae and not all algae eaters will eat every type. 
The Ideal Tank Setup for Oscars Oscars are a type of cichlid and they are a very amusing species of freshwater fish to keep in the home aquarium. 
Compatible Tank Mates for Freshwater Angels Freshwater angelfish (Pterophyllum scalare) are one of the most captivating and graceful species in community aquariums, with their tall, flowing fins and curious personalities. 
The 15 Most Popular Types of Goldfish Goldfish are among the most recognizable aquarium fish in the world, yet they are also some of the most misunderstood. 
The Best 10-Gallon Fish Stocking Ideas (With Photos, Behavior Notes & Alternatives) A 10-gallon aquarium is one of the most popular beginner tank sizes, but choosing the right fish—and the right combinations—is essential for long-term success. 
The Top 6 Freshwater Goby Species for Your Tank Most of the gobies kept in the home aquarium are saltwater fish but there are still a few freshwater gobies that make excellent additions to the home tank. 
Everything You Need to Know About Freshwater Angelfish Freshwater angelfish are among the most iconic and recognizable aquarium fish in the hobby. 
Everything You Need to Know About Nerite Snails If you’ve ever noticed pristine aquarium glass, spotless decorations, or felt mystified by a snail that seems to magically keep your tank algae-free, chances are you’re thinking about nerite snails — one of the most popular grazing snail species in the freshwater and saltwater aquarium hobby. 
The Most Popular Catfish for Freshwater Tanks Catfish are an extremely diverse group of fishes and many of them fare well in the home aquarium. 
Jewel Cichlid Species Profile Jewel Cichlids are a group of brightly colored cichlids from Africa. 
Stocking Fresh Water Fish Tanks Stocking a freshwater fish tank is one of the most rewarding parts of aquarium keeping—but it’s also where many beginners unknowingly run into trouble. 
Spotlight on the Apple Snail Apple snails are often overlooked by beginner and intermediate aquarists, yet these charismatic invertebrates can add fascinating behavior, eye-catching color, and beneficial cleanup activity to your freshwater aquarium. 
The Basics of Freshwater Fish Compatibility Whether you are new to the aquarium hobby or not, there are a few things you should know about freshwater fish compatibility. 
Corydoras Catfish: Community-Friendly Bottom Feeders If you are looking for the perfect fish to add to your community tank, consider corydoras catfish. 
The Top 10 Worst Community Fish If you are interested in cultivating a peaceful tank full of multiple species, don't choose these fish. 
South American Cichlid Species for Beginners Cichlids are not for everyone, however, and certain species can be quite challenging to keep. 
Algae Eaters for Freshwater Tanks Are you looking for an easy way to help control algae in your tank? 
Stocking Your Tank with Schooling Fish There is perhaps no sight more captivating in the aquarium hobby than a tight-knit school of iridescent fish moving in perfect unison across a lushly planted backdrop. 
Common Myths About Bettas If you’re new to the aquarium hobby or have kept fish for a few years, chances are you’ve heard plenty of advice—some good, some confusing—about Betta fish (Betta splendens). 
The Top Choices for Stocking a 10-Gallon Tank Maintaining a thriving 10-gallon tank can be a challenge but it will help if you are careful about how you stock it. 
Caring for the Plecostomus in the Freshwater Tank If you’ve ever visited a pet store or aquarium show you may have noticed a group of tough-looking, algae‑eating fish whisking along the glass and decor — the plecostomus. 
Cultivating a Tank for Red Bellied Pacus Red Bellied Pacus are among the most fascinating and rewarding fish for freshwater aquarium enthusiasts, but they’re also fish that come with unique needs and challenges. 
What Are Good Freshwater Fish For Beginners Choosing your first freshwater fish can feel overwhelming, especially with hundreds of colorful species available at pet stores and online. 
Choosing the Right Barbs for Your Tank If you’re diving into the colorful world of freshwater aquariums and want active, charismatic fish that add energy and interest to your tank, few groups deliver like barbs — from the classic Tiger Barb to the dazzling Cherry Barb — but choosing the right barb species for your tank requires more than just picking your favorite color. 
Show Tank-Worthy Tankmates for Fancy Guppies Fancy guppies are among the most eye-catching freshwater fish available, prized for their flowing fins, vibrant colors, and constant activity. 
The Top 5 Shrimp for the Freshwater Aquarium Freshwater shrimp make an excellent addition to your cleanup crew - keep reading to learn more about the top 5 species! 
The Natural Environments of African and South American Cichlids Cichlids are some of the most fascinating freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby, admired for their intelligence, vibrant colors, and complex behaviors. 
Species Spotlight: Archerfish Few aquarium fish capture attention quite like the archerfish. 
Top Freshwater Aquarium Bullies Every aquarium hobbyist eventually learns that not all fish are as peaceful as they look. 
Spotlight on the Otocinclus Catfish Also known as oto cats, otocinclus catfish are some of the smallest aquarium fish out there and also some of the best algae eaters. 
Species Spotlight: Keeping Arowanas in the Freshwater Tank The Arowana is a very large but graceful fish that makes a very interesting freshwater tank inhabitant. 
Tips for Stocking Your Aquarium by Color If you want a thriving, brightly colored aquarium then consider picking your freshwater fish by color. 
Spotlight on the Wolf Cichlid The Wolf Cichlid, known scientifically as Parachromis dovii, is one of the most talked-about freshwater fish in the aquarium hobby, admired for its intelligence and power while simultaneously feared for its aggression and size. 
The Top 10 Worst Tank Busters Find out which fish will rapidly outgrow your tank, and the smaller alternatives that are available. 
Cichlids - Understanding the Different Types Have you ever considered adding a cichlid or two to your freshwater tank? 
Keeping Goldfish In this article you will find information about keeping goldfish as pets and how to prepare for your own goldfish tank. 
Care Guide for Keeping Brackish and Freshwater Puffers The name "puffer fish" conjures an image of a balloon-like animal but these fish are so much more than their comical appearance. 
Can You Keep Other Fish With Your Betta? The betta fish is an incredibly popular species that has a reputation for being aggressive.