Although both marine (saltwater) and freshwater fish can be 'tropical', the term 'Tropical Fish' generally refers to tropical freshwater fish. These are fish which do best in a temperature range of about 24-26C and to maintain this temperature a heater is required.

Are tropical fish more difficult?
Surprisingly, the correct care of tropical fish in most cases is exactly the same as the correct care for coldwater fish, or Goldfish. The main difference is in choice - there are literally hundreds of tropical fish to choose from compared to a handful of coldwater varieties.

What do I need?
Apart from the tank itself the two essential items are a heater and a filter (to process the waste from your fish) Lighting is also important if you want to grow plants or view your fish properly. You will also need some small items to maintain your aquarium such as cleaning pads, gravel cleaners, water conditioner, and of course food.

What can I keep?
Tropical fish offer the widest choice of all aquarium fish and within the same tank you can keep shoals of colourful small fish, scavenging bottom-dwellers, algae-eating suckermouth catfish, surface dwelling hatchetfish, fantailed Guppies, shrimps, snails, and lots lots more. Taking your time to choose is a good idea, and of course ask our staff as they know which fish will develop the best colours, or mix with your existing stock.

Becoming a hobbyist
Keeping fish is a great hobby and many fish keepers progress onto greater challenges soon after setting up their first tank. Attempting a planted aquascape, biotope tank, or even breeding your fish can be very rewarding and with the help of Fishey Business it won't be long before you get the infamous 'Fishkeeping Bug'.