Once you’ve set up your Aqua One freshwater aquarium, the next exciting step is choosing the right fish. Whether you’ve opted for a compact AquaNano or a stylish OakStyle cabinet aquarium, selecting beginner-friendly species is key to building a healthy, low-maintenance aquatic ecosystem.
This guide highlights the top 5 freshwater fish that are perfect for Aqua One tanks. These species are easy to care for, peaceful, and visually stunning—ideal for anyone just starting out in the hobby.
1. Guppies (Poecilia reticulata)
Best for: AquaNano and OakStyle
Size: Up to 5 cm
Temperature: 22–28°C
Temperament: Peaceful
Tank Size: 40L+
Guppies are among the most popular and colorful freshwater fish available. They’re easy to care for, come in endless varieties, and thrive in both small and large tanks. A small group of 5–6 guppies adds vibrant energy to your setup.
✅ Great for beginners and peaceful community tanks. Avoid housing with fin-nippers.
2. Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi)
Best for: OakStyle
Size: Up to 4 cm
Temperature: 22–26°C
Temperament: Peaceful, schooling
Tank Size: 60L+
Neon Tetras are small, eye-catching fish known for their electric blue and red stripes. They prefer to swim in schools, so always keep at least 6 together. Their peaceful nature makes them excellent tank mates for guppies and bottom-dwellers.
🌿 Neon Tetras thrive in planted tanks with soft lighting.
3. Betta Fish (Betta splendens)
Best for: AquaNano
Size: Up to 7 cm
Temperature: 24–28°C
Temperament: Territorial (males)
Tank Size: 20–40L
Betta fish are a stunning, low-maintenance option for small tanks. Known for their flowing fins and bold personality, Bettas are best kept solo, especially males. They prefer calm waters, so avoid strong filtration flow.
🔥 A perfect choice for AquaNano tanks with gentle filters and plant cover.
4. Corydoras Catfish
Best for: OakStyle
Size: 5–7 cm
Temperature: 22–26°C
Temperament: Peaceful, bottom-dwellers
Tank Size: 60L+
Corydoras are active, peaceful catfish that clean up leftover food from the tank floor. They’re happiest in groups of 4 or more and make excellent companions for guppies and tetras. Their playful behavior makes them fun to watch.
✅ Use soft sand or fine gravel to protect their barbels.
5. Platies (Xiphophorus maculatus)
Best for: OakStyle
Size: 5–7 cm
Temperature: 20–26°C
Temperament: Friendly, active
Tank Size: 40L+
Platies are colorful, hardy fish that adapt well to a variety of tank conditions. Available in many varieties—from Red Wags to Sunset Platies—they add movement and personality to your tank. Like guppies, platies breed easily, so watch your male-to-female ratios.
🐣 Great for peaceful community tanks. Separate sexes to control population.
Compatibility Chart
|
Species |
Compatible With |
Avoid With |
|---|---|---|
|
Guppies |
Tetras, Corydoras, Platies |
Bettas (males) |
|
Neon Tetras |
Guppies, Corydoras, Shrimp |
Aggressive fish |
|
Bettas |
Snails, shrimp (cautiously) |
Other male Bettas |
|
Corydoras |
Guppies, Platies, Tetras |
Large cichlids |
|
Platies |
Guppies, Corydoras, Mollies |
Aggressive species |
Basic Care Tips for First-Time Fishkeepers
-
Change 20–30% of the water weekly
-
Test water parameters regularly (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH)
-
Feed sparingly—only what fish eat in 1–2 minutes
-
Add fish gradually to allow the biological filter to keep up
-
Use a gravel vacuum during water changes to clean debris
Conclusion
Whether you’re working with a sleek AquaNano or a spacious OakStyle setup, these five freshwater species will give you a beautiful, stress-free start to your aquatics journey. They’re colorful, sociable, and forgiving of beginner mistakes—making them ideal for learning and growing in the hobby.
