travel small fish

How To Transport Fish Safely: Long and Short Distances

• by Dr. Mollie Newton
• May 8, 2024
• 8 minute read

Just bought a new fish and puzzled about how to transport it back home safely? It’s entirely normal to feel this way. It’s essential to learn the suitable procedures to transport fish in a way that ensures their wellbeing. A few key points to keep in mind include selecting an appropriate transport container, safeguarding the fish’s health, and ensuring an adequate supply of oxygen throughout the trip. If you’re keen to discover the most efficient ways to safely convey your new aquatic pet back to your house, keep reading!

In this article...

Article Summary Key considerations for safely transporting fish include the choice of an appropriate transport container, fish safety, and ensuring sufficient oxygen for the journey. The simplest method for transporting fish is to use a closed container like a sturdy plastic bag with clean water and oxygen for shorter journeys. The recommended method for shorter distances is to bag the fish, and for longer journeys, consider using a larger container with more oxygen, such as an aquarium.

How To Transport Live Fish

The simplest and easiest method in helping your fish reach their final destination is to use a closed container like a sturdy plastic bag, with clean water that should have enough pure oxygen already in it for the journey home.

There is also the potential for using the aquarium itself or a new bucket, but these methods can be more complicated and require additional equipment and difficulty.

NOTE Keep in mind that no matter how you do it, transporting your fish will stress them out! As soon as they get to your home, they’ll need a quiet, relaxed environment to recuperate and relax.

Plastic Bags

When looking at either plastic bags or the aquarium itself as your container of choice, consider the length of the journey and whether the container is appropriate for travel.

Tanks for Transport

Using a tank that has additional air movement can keep your fish alive for longer, but will obviously come with extra air and power needs while transporting fish.

Should You Feed Your Fish Before Traveling?

Regardless of whether you’re using a bag, bucket, or the tank itself, avoid feeding your fish before transport !

You want to keep conditions in the bag safe for the fish, and having excess waste accumulate on the move can lead to ammonia poisoning during transport.

Set Up Your Fish Tank Beforehand

Since the main thing is to transport your fish quickly and efficiently, you want to make sure that you have your fish containers set up days prior to getting your fish to its new home .

Add any live plants, substrate, decorations, air pumps, and filters with plenty of time for the nitrogen cycle to begin and roll over a few times in the tank so that the fish isn’t encountering anything that presents a health risk.

TIP If you’re unsure about conditions in your tank, consider using an aquarium test kit available at most commercial pet stores. These will let you know the ammonia and oxygen levels in the tank, as well as the pH and salinity.

If you’re looking to add multiple fish or more than one fish at the same time, make sure that conditions are right before adding anything.

While one fish can handle a bit of leeway in terms of water parameters, the more large fish you add the more quickly waste, ammonia, and nitrates can accumulate leading to ammonia problems for everyone in the tank.

How To Transport Fish By Car

The most likely way that most people will be bringing their new fish home, a personal vehicle can be a great choice for fish transport. You don’t need to have any sort of professional moving vehicle to do things right, just time and consideration.

The main challenge with using a car for pet fish transport is in determining the length of the journey and planning appropriately . 

NOTE Remember to treat your passenger with care when it comes time to transport your fish. Keeping the fish in a secure carrier (aka bags) in the passenger seat can be a great way to keep an eye on things when transporting.

Travel Time

For short jaunts , small fish survive just fine without any additional considerations aside from a sturdy fish bag and some tank water.

Longer trips of over a day can create difficulties with regards to running out of oxygen in your fish’s water and may need some extra thought to pull off properly. Put them in a bag filled with enough oxygen so they can survive until you get to your destination.

Also, note that your air conditioner can add additional stress to your fish by chilling it out below its normal temperature ! Try to keep things around where the temperature of the water in the plastic bags are, if at all possible when transporting your fish.

The Plastic Bag Method

As simple as it sounds, the plastic bag method involves placing your fish in a bag (or bags), filling it up half-way with aquarium water, and putting them in a safe location for transport. This is the most common method for transporting or mailing fish .

For large fish, make sure to use bags that are designed to fit their size and go with the same half-way full mark for whatever size bag you wind up using.

And upon arrival, make sure to acclimate the new fish properly . This ensures that the bag’s water matches the tank’s water parameters, avoids shock to your new fish, and prevents illness and diseases.

Buying Bags

The pet store or breeder that you purchase from should have plastic bags or closed containers that they use, and we recommend sticking to the same bag.

This will contain water that the fish is already used to, which will help decrease stress for your fish in the long run.

Here’s an informational video on testing bags to use for transport…

Type of Fish To Transport

Considering that many species of fish such as Red Cichlids and Jaguar Cichlids have sharp fins or bony ridges, special consideration needs to be taken so that the bag doesn’t leak water.

You may want to try using a second bag, as well as an insulated container, just in case your normal small containers are punctured and the bag leaks.

NOTE Make sure to fill the bag with pure oxygen before transport, as this will give them the best chance if things take longer than an hour for whatever reason.

How Long Can You Keep Fish in a Bag?

The pure oxygen initially added into most plastic bags by pet stores will last your fish around an hour total.

After that, a long distance means you’ll be quickly moving into dangerous territory for the fish inside of the bag which can lead to lasting damage.

Can Fish Suffocate in a Plastic Bag?

Fish can absolutely drown or suffocate in a plastic bag ! The plastic container is not open to the outside environment and has no additional water movement to provide oxygenation.

Therefore, it will only have as much dissolved oxygen as it did when originally packaged, which is around one hour in duration from when the rubber band is tied around the top of the bag.

Transporting Fish In An Aquarium

While not ideal, there may come a time where you need to transport your fish in their own tank. If this is something that you need to do, there are a few key components to making the trip as safe and secure as possible to ensure your fish can survive the trip.

A few benefits of using the fish tank are that they are typically a sturdy container and will already have the aquarium water and any beneficial bacteria that your fish are used to.

Some drawbacks are that glass tanks can shatter, unlike acrylic ones.

Water Parameters

Having parameters and oxygen in a good place prior to moving your fish is a great start to a successful journey for your fish.

• Prep Your Tank – Remove any decorations, live plants, and other equipment that may come loose during travel to ensure the fish’s safety. During the process is a great time to consider cleaning the tank fully, as you’ll already be pulling everything out!
• Lower The Water Level – Keep enough in the tank (~⅓-⅔ of normal, depending on how large your fish is and how much water they need) so that your fish is adequately comfortable.
• Insulate the Tank – Using bubble wrap, a picnic cooler, or whatever other insulating material you’ve got on hand, surround the tank with something so that the glass doesn’t break. This will provide the added benefit of keeping the water from the tank temperature close to where it was before the trip.
• Put A Lid On It – Use a water tight lid to keep anything from spilling during transport. If you have a fish that leaps out of the aquarium water such as betta, this will have the added bonus of keeping your fish in the tank if it decides to make a break for it!
• Replace Everything – After your long distance trip, try to move everything smoothly but quickly into its new position so that the fish tank can begin returning to normal conditions. Re-install any filters, plants, air pumps, and get the oxygen levels back to normal as soon as possible and keep a close eye on your fish for altered behaviors or appearance which may be a sign of excessive stress suffered during the trip.

What About Using a Bucket To Transport Fish?

As an absolute last resort, a bucket can work in a pinch to transport fish.

Buckets are dangerous for most fish because they have more potential to spill , and have harder sides that your fish may impact against during the journey.

Why Is It Not Recommended to Use A Bucket?

Imagine hitting the brakes during a typical day of traffic. Fish in bags are unlikely to suffer physical harm from this.

In a bucket, there is increased danger over other types of containers of not only spilling, but of having the fish impact against the side of the bucket itself!

Using Buckets For Moving Fish

If using a bucket for transporting fish, the process is somewhat similar to that of fish bags, but with a more durable container.

However, it is worth remembering that buckets can be potentially unstable. To transport fish with a bucket, we recommend a minimum of 5-gallons for anything but large fish which will likely need more space to feel comfortable. But a five-gallon bucket can also be an easy way to transport multiple fish (small fish species only) in the same container.

• Fill Your Bucket – Add around half of the bucket’s worth of aquarium water prior to transporting fish.
• Add Your Fish – To ensure maximum oxygen while you transport fish, add the fish right after the water has been added so that none is wasted. You must stop feeding them to keep conditions in the bag safe for the fish during transport.
• Put A Lid On It – Adding a lid can help protect your fish from falling out or having more water spill out of the bucket (and therefore losing the dissolved oxygen) during the trip.
• Get Your Fish In A Tank – As soon as the short distance trip is over, move your fish into its proper container so that it can begin to destress and get back to normal and go from survive to thrive.

Throughout today’s article, we’ve looked at a few different methods for how to transport fish both short and long distances.

Our recommendation is first bag your fish for shorter distances, and then look at potentially using a larger container with more oxygen such as an aquarium if your trip will be up to a few days in length.

Feel Free To Share!

Feel free to share this information with any other fish fanatics you may know, and we wish you the best of luck on your aquatic adventures!

Dr. Mollie Newton

Founder of PetMeTwice. I'm a doctor of Veterinary Medicine and avid Aquarist. I love learning and teaching fellow fish lovers how to keep their fish healthy and happy. 🐠 🤩

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How to Safely Transport Fish For Short & Long Distances (Vet Answer)

By Dr. Luqman Javed, DVM (Vet)

Updated on Feb 9, 2024

Vet approved

Dr. Luqman Javed

DVM (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Click to Skip Ahead

In this article, we’ll look at ways to transport pet fish over short and long distances safely.

Situations That Require Transporting Your Fish

A fish isn’t a pet people associate with traveling and transport, but there are situations where your fish needs to be transported.

Please be mindful that you should only transport your fish only when absolutely necessary. Fish are not meant to be transported all the time. Ideas such as taking your fish to the park daily or weekly are more likely to do harm than offer any benefits and are not conducive to your fish’s well-being.

Here are some situations where transporting your fish might be necessary:

• Bringing home. When you purchase your fish from a store or breeder, you’ll need to transport them home and place them in an aquarium.
• A vet visit . When an aquatic vet can’t come to your home to inspect your fish or perform a video consultation, you may have to transport your fish to the vet. Sometimes, your vet may advise you to bring in your fish after a video consultation (for a closer examination).
• A relocation . If you’re moving houses or changing your address, you might have to transport your fish as well.

The transport might be short or long. Generally speaking, defining a trip as “short” or “long” isn’t determined by the distance traveled but rather by the amount of time it takes for you to make a trip. Though there’s no specific rule, a short-distance trip can last up to 6 hours. A longer trip exceeds this time limit. The fundamentals of transporting your fish are similar in each scenario.

Let’s look at each of these scenarios with a closer look.

Bringing Fish Home

This is perhaps the easiest form of transportation for your fish. You have to be mindful of a few things. Your fish will likely be placed in a plastic bag filled with oxygen, and the bag will usually either be tied or sealed for their safety. It’s a good idea to request that your fish be “double bagged” as an added precaution.

Additional tips to be mindful of include the following:

• Ensure that picking up your fish is last on your “to-do” list while you’re out. Essentially, your goal should be to have your fish spend the least amount of time possible in their transport bag as possible.
• Be mindful of other items you may be carrying in your hand; a sharp object can puncture the bag your fish is held in, which you would definitely want to avoid.
• While transporting your fish (either by walking or while in any mode of transport), try your best to avoid any bumps, sudden movements, or abrupt stops (such as slamming on your brakes).
• You should not run while holding your fish. It’s best to wrap your fish in a secure blanket or a towel.

Once at your home, carefully place your fish in a suitable aquarium and begin the acclimation process before adding them to their new home. If your fish is going to be joining a community tank , you should place them in a quarantine tank for a period of at least 4 weeks (6 weeks is ideal) before introducing them to the community aquarium.

If you're interested in learning everything about the safest way to transfer new tankmates into your aquarium, our best-selling book, The Truth About Goldfish , covers everything about ideal tank maintenance and details on the tank transfer method—a seamless way to add new members to the family!

Precautions for Long Trips

If your trip back home from the pet store is particularly long, request that they add ammonia-neutralizing chemicals to the fish bag. This can provide an extra layer of protection for your fish for a long period. Generally speaking, though, for pet stores that are exceptionally far away, you should opt for them to ship the fish to you , if possible.

A Vet Visit

Generally speaking, a vet visit is a short trip only requested in rare circumstances. In most circumstances, an aquatic veterinarian would visit your home rather than have your fish transported to them. However, in some circumstances, they may request your fish be brought in for a closer examination. At other times, there may be no choice but to bring your fish in for a complex procedure that can’t be performed during a visit to your home.

In this case, you can transport your fish safely by following these steps:

1. Gather Your Necessities

Here are the necessities you may require when it comes to transporting your fish . Most of these can be purchased from a pet store. Depending on your fish, you may require some or all of these.

• Plastic bags to hold your fish or a very small transport aquarium or container with a lid (if your fish has sharp fins)
• Oxygen tanks
• Ammonia neutralizing medicine
• An air pump, tubing, and an air stone
• A portable water heater (these usually have a charging port compatible with your car’s charging port)
• Two spare water containers or empty water bottles (these should have lids or covers)
• Spare empty plastic containers, Tupperware, or transport aquariums.

2. Fill a Spare Container

Fill a spare water container or an empty water bottle with water from your fish’s aquarium. Close their lid or cover. A small water bottle that holds about half a liter of water is usually enough for a short trip for a small fish (such as a Betta or a Dwarf Gourami). However, if your fish is larger, consider bringing along more water. Note that your vet will almost always request a sample of your aquarium water, and therefore, you can always carry along more (within reasonable limits).

3. Fill the Transport Container

Ensure the transport aquarium or bag is clean. Fill it about halfway with water from your fish’s aquarium. You may add ammonia-neutralizing medicine to their transport container if needed.

4. Capture Your Fish

Gently scoop your fish out in a net and quickly transfer your pet into the transport aquarium or bag and close the lid (for an aquarium) or fill it with oxygen and then tie it (for a bag). If you’re using a bag, consider doubling it up.

Be mindful of the following:

• Because ornaments and plants can sometimes topple during a trip, you should not place them in this transport aquarium or bag.
• When transporting non-schooling fish, place each individual in their own bag or aquarium.
• When transporting schooling fish, place at least six individuals per bag or per aquarium. If the transport container can hold more fish (and has enough water), you can place more of them in the same transport unit.
• Mixing species while transporting fish is not advised.
• If your fish has sharp spines or fins, do not place them in a bag for transport. Their fins or spines may tear the bag open.

5. Final Trip Preparations

If your fish is being transported in a bag, then ensure the following:

• Place your fish’s tied bag in a spare plastic box, aquarium, or Tupperware with a secure lid.
• Ensuring the bag isn’t leaking before closing the box you place it in.
• If your fish needs to be kept warm for their trip, consider wrapping the container holding their bags in a towel or a fleece blanket.

If your fish is being transported in a transport aquarium or a container, then ensure the following:

• Most fish will require oxygen for their trips that will take longer than 3 hours. To do so, pass an air tube to their aquarium. If the lid of the container does not have any space for an air line tube to pass through, consider drilling a small hole. Opt for an air pump with a rechargeable battery or one that can be charged or powered while inside your car (using the power ports in your vehicle).
• If your fish needs heating throughout their trip, a similar procedure can be carried out for their heater. Ensure the heater is placed flat on the container’s floor. If parts of the heating element are outside the water, the heater may malfunction.
• Please be mindful that because a gallon (3.8 L) of water weighs 8.3 pounds (3.8 kilograms), even a small aquarium can be extremely heavy relative to its size.

6. Transport With Caution

Your priority should be to transport your fish to your veterinarian with no or as few stops in between as possible. Ensure your car is relatively warm for your trip. An ambient temperature of around 25–28°C (77–82.4°F) is recommended for most fish. Ensure your fish is secure in your car (it’s best to have someone hold your fish’s container). Drive slowly, and try to use routes without too many bumps or potholes.

If the trip lasts longer than 3 hours, it is advisable to replace some of the water in your fish’s tank or bag with the spare aquarium water you brought along. To do so, use an empty container to remove some of the water from the container and replace an appropriate amount of water from your spare supply. Do not tilt a bag or aquarium to remove water, as you might lose your fish!

7. After Your Trip

Though, in most cases, you can safely reintroduce your fish to their aquarium after a short trip, you may wish to reacclimate them to the aquarium before doing so (especially if you suspect that the water temperatures have changed while you were away). You would have to use a plastic bag to float your fish before adding them back into their tank (similar to how you acclimated them when you first brought them home).

It is very important to acclimate your fish as a “new” fish if your fish spent more than a day with your vet (for example, if your vet placed them in a ward for recovery after a procedure). Ensure you complete any instructions provided by your veterinarian regarding aftercare for your fish.

A Relocation (Long Distance Drive)

A trip for a relocation is much more trickier and generally requires more preparation, even if it’s a short distance that you relocate to. The steps for a driving relocation that takes less than 48 hours (2 days) are as follows:

Once again, this occasion calls for gathering your necessities before your trip. These are the same as those listed for a short trip to the veterinarian, with an additional requirement of:

• Multiple spare buckets of manageable size
• A few spare towels that are large enough to cover those buckets
• Tank sealant glue (in the unfortunate event that an aquarium cracks during transport)
• Household ammonia (easily obtainable from a hardware store)

2. Water Change

Feed your fish their usual daily food, then change at least 20-25% of the water in your aquarium three days before your trip. Please note that this advice assumes an appropriately stocked aquarium. Heavier-stocked aquariums will require more extensive changes.

3. Stop Feeding

Two days before your trip, stop feeding your fish. You should also remove automated feeders (if any). This minimizes the waste they produce during a long trip. Healthy adult fish have no problems dealing with a fast of a few days. If your fish are young or unwell, try postponing your trip (if possible) or seek veterinary advice before fasting and transporting your fish.

4. Capture on Move Day

On the day of the move, fill the transport aquarium or plastic bag (depending on your choice) with some aquarium water, gently scoop up your fish, and place them in their respective containers or bags. Secure these using the same instructions and tips provided in the section above.

5. Drain Tank

After your fish have been placed in their transport bags or tanks, drain the tank to the substrate (if any). Try salvaging some aquarium water in buckets or spare containers, depending on how much space you have in your transport vehicle.

Please be mindful that aquariums should NOT be moved when they are full of water. Aquariums are designed to be stationary. Uneven water pressure hitting the walls of a full aquarium that is being moved can cause glass aquariums to crack or shatter.

6. Pack Plants, Filter, and Substrate

If your tank has a substrate layer, you should place it in a bucket with a very thin layer of water (just enough to cover the substrate).

Pack aquarium plants in plastic bags with some aquarium water and oxygen. Alternatively, plants can be placed in buckets with their roots submerged in aquarium water. Cover the bucket with a moist towel to ensure they don’t dry out during the trip.

Your tank’s filter media should be kept wet throughout the move as well. The nitrifying bacteria used in your tank’s cycle will perish if they dry out.

7. Drive Slowly

Drive slowly and carefully, avoiding speed bumps whenever possible. If you plan to stop for the night, do not leave your fish in your car unattended. Instead, bring them in with you where you will stay for the night.

Never leave fish (or any pets) in an unattended locked car during the day; they may die from heat stress. Try to keep your car somewhat warm, a temperature of around 25°C (77°F) is recommended.

The goal of a long-distance trip is striking a balance between stopping for partial water changes and not taking too long to reach your destination. Most people opt for water changes once every 3 to 6 hours. As a general rule, if your fish seem to be doing fine throughout the trip, prioritize covering the distance to your destination over a water change. If they seem to be gasping or air, appearing lethargic, or changing their color slightly, prioritize a water change.

The bacteria in your tank’s filter feed on ammonia provided by your fish on a daily basis. During a trip, they won’t have this source of nutrition, and therefore, it’s advised to drop a small amount of ammonia in the bucket holding your filter media before your trip (1–2 drops). This should provide the bacteria with food for about a day. Repeat this process the next morning (for a long trip that takes more than a day).

8. When You Arrive

Setting up your aquarium quickly once you arrive at your destination is crucial. To do so, work in reverse by adding in the filter media, substrate, and plants first. Next, place any salvaged aquarium water you brought along. Fill up the aquarium with fresh de-chlorinated water as needed, and install any other appliances (such as your aquarium light & heater). Turn everything back on and ensure they are working properly.

Ensure you check the parameters of the new water source you’re going to use for your fish. If they are vastly different from the parameters of your previous water source, you should acclimate your fish to the aquarium with extra caution.

9. Reacclimate Your Fish

After a long trip, it is important to reacclimate your fish to their aquarium over a period of about 60–120 minutes. This is to avoid giving them a shock when they first arrive in potentially new waters.

10. Monitor Your Fish

It is best to not feed your fish for about a day after arriving (they may likely be too stressed to eat anyway). Keep a close eye on them, and monitor your water parameters periodically, especially during the first week after a relocation.

If you feel that your fish aren’t adjusting well after the move or seem to be taking a turn for the worse, you should promptly contact your veterinarian or a fisheries expert for advice.

Public Modes of Travel (Flight, Ship, Train)

If you’re planning to use nonconventional public transport for your fish, you should always contact the relevant authorities for information with regard to transport requirements and their procedure. It is also important to check if you can legally transport your fish to their destination (some jurisdictions may not allow this).

Though odd, fish must sometimes be transported over short or long distances. In this article, we’ve covered the various scenarios in which you might have to transport your fish and provided a step-by-step guide on making the process as stress-free as possible. We hope this guide will help you if you ever find yourself in a situation where your fish must be transported from one place to another.

Featured Image Credit: Simol1407, Shutterstock

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How to Transport Fish

Last Updated: January 25, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Doug Ludemann . Doug Ludemann is the owner and operator of Fish Geeks, LLC, an aquarium services company based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Doug has worked in the aquarium and fish-care industry for over 20 years, including having worked as a professional aquarist for the Minnesota Zoo and Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. He received his Bachelor of Science in Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior from the University of Minnesota. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 12 testimonials and 100% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 451,714 times.

Aquariums are wonderful hobbies, and fish are great pets for many people. When you get fish, you expect to leave them in their tank and not move them. However, if you are relocating, you may not want to give your fish away. You can safely take your fish with you by placing them in proper containers and reintroducing them to their tank as soon as possible.

Ensuring Your Fish’s Safety Prior to Traveling

• When you stop for the night, you need to take the fish with you. Don’t leave them unattended in cars or trailers.
• If you need to fly with your fish, contact the airline to find out what requirements they have for transporting fish.

• You should also plan to unpack your fish as soon as you reach your destination. They should be the first thing you unpack.

Choosing a Container for Transportation

• Place a second bag over the first bag so that it is extra protected. This helps in case the bag leaks.
• Use a rubber band to secure the bags so the fish and water cannot get out.
• If you are going to have the fish in bags for longer than an hour, get some pure oxygen from your local pet store to place in the bags with them.

• Fill the bucket with water from your tank.

• This may be good for fish with sharp fins or who may get out of a plastic bag.

• However, even small tanks can be difficult to move. They are very heavy, but also fragile. If you drop the tank and it breaks, you may lose all of your fish.
• Tanks that are moved with water in them are more likely to get chipped or cracked.

• If you have an insulated container, consider transporting your fish in it. A picnic cooler or styrofoam cooler will be great for this.

• You should only fill the container around a third of the way full. The rest of the container should be open for oxygen.

Keeping Your Fish Safe While Traveling

• You can also use insulation to the transportation container. This can help regulate the temperature.
• Check the fish’s temperature to make sure it doesn’t get too hot or too cold.

• For example, you may place a sheet or rug over the container.

• If you transported your fish in bags, place the bags on top of the water and let them float. This helps regulate the temperature of the water in the bags. When the temperature of the water in both are similar, you can pour the fish into the tank.

Taking Care of the Tank

• Don't transport these things in the tank. The tank could crack if it is moved with items inside it.

• For long moves, you can clean the filter and reintroduce it when you arrive at the destination. You may also want to throw it away and buy a new one.

Community Q&A

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.atlasvanlines.com/Moving-Tips/How-To-Move-Guides/moving-fish
• ↑ http://animals.mom.me/keep-fish-alive-long-trip-9321.html
• ↑ https://www.pbspettravel.co.uk/blog/transport-pet-fish-safely/
• ↑ Doug Ludemann. Aquarium Care Professional. Expert Interview. 27 August 2019.

About This Article

If you need to transport fish, make sure no chemicals have previously been in the bucket you plan to use. Then, fill it with water from your tank and put your fish inside. Place the bucket in a dark place so the fish will be less active during the trip. Alternatively, fill 1/3 of a special fish bag with water and put 1 fish in each bag. Place the bags in a container insulated with bubble wrap so they don't burst during the trip. To learn how to take care of ornaments in your tank, like rocks and decorations, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Home » How To Travel With a Fish – By Plane, Car, Train or Bus

How To Travel With a Fish – By Plane, Car, Train or Bus

It is an unusual predicament when you must learn how to travel with a fish. Fish are very fragile and do not transport easily. However, there are instances when pet owners must travel, relocate, or move to another home. It is important to take the proper measures to ensure fish safety—whether traveling by car or plane.

There are a few essential things to consider when learning how to travel with a fish. First, as a soft guideline, fish can survive in a plastic transport bag for up to 7 to 9 hours. It is difficult to provide a clear safety timeframe because many factors come into play. For example, the size of the bag, the air and water temperature, and how airtight the bag’s seal is can all influence fish safety.

How to Travel With a Fish

Below are five essential guidelines to take when traveling with a fish:

• Fish can travel for about 48 hours before you risk their survival.
• Do not feed your fish for 24 to 48 hours before traveling.
• Depending on your mode of transportation, use plastic bags or clean plastic containers (the best ones are listed below).
• Fill the leakproof/airtight transport container 1/3 full using tank water, not tap water. Leave 2/3 of the bag/container empty. The remaining space will supply supplemental oxygen.
• Keeping your fish in a dark place causes less stress because fish are inactive at night.

Below, we’ll discuss how to travel with a fish by car and by plane.

Preparing Fish For Travel

Before you travel, avoid feeding your fish for 24 to 48 hours to prevent contaminating the transport water. Depending on the species, fish can survive for about two to three days without food , however, much of it depends on the underlying health of the fish. Do not feel the need to open the bag and add food. Remember, a fish should be the last item you pack and the first thing you unpack.

How to Pack a Pet Fish

The length of the journey and whether the fish will travel by car or plane will dictate how it should be packed. Also, if traveling internationally, you will need to figure out the customs laws before departing.

Traveling With Fish By Plane

The TSA offers some guidance on how to travel with a fish. TSA regulations allow for live fish to board planes after security inspection for domestic flights. Fish must be placed in a clear, spill-proof container . Fish are not permitted in checked luggage. Before your flight, it is advisable to contact your specific airline to see if there are any special requirements for fish travel.

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Generally, the TSA agent will inspect the bag or container to check that the fish is alive and swimming. If this is the case, they will know that the fluid is water and not any dangerous or flammable liquid. As fish are not a common travel item, allow yourself extra time before your flight to allow for the inspection. There is no limit on the amount of fish as indicated by the TSA tweets below.

Spill-Proof Container

While it is possible to bring special airtight bags made to transport fish on flights, we don’t recommend doing this. The safest way to bring a pet fish on a plane is with this clear Rubbermaid tall plastic spill-proof container . Once the fish is placed inside of the clear container, place the fish in this small insulated bag —when you reach security, simply take the clear container out of the insulated bag.

For longer journeys, be sure to bring this small ladle to add oxygen to the water by aerating it⁠—ladle the water from the container and raise it about six inches, and slowly pour it back into the aquarium. Also, if any time during the journey your fish is spending an abnormal amount of time near the surface this most likely indicates that there is not enough oxygen in the water—begin the aerating process as stated above.

Finally, attach this thermometer to the clear container to track the temperature. Depending on the length of the journey, it may be worth considering options to adjust the temperature through the use of instant hot/cold packs .

Boarding the Plane

Upon boarding, situate the fish in a place where there will be the least amount of movement. For example, the fish can be placed under the seat in front of you, on your lap, or inside the overhead bin. Moreover, you may consider bringing a travel blanket to cover the container to prevent anxiety or to protect it from sitting on too cold or hot surfaces.

Rules are different for international flights due to customs regulations. You will need to check the rules for importing and exporting fish for each country’s airport security that you pass through.

Read : 5 Ways to Occupy Your Pet While Waiting for a Flight

Traveling With Fish by Car

The main difference between traveling with fish by car versus plane is that it doesn’t need to be in a clear see-through container. When traveling by car, the temperature will be the most important factor when transporting your fish. To clarify, great fluctuations in water and air temperature can be harmful to aquatic pets.

For short distances or only a couple of hours, a special plastic bag made to transport fish will work. It is best to double bag the fish and secure the top with a rubber band to prevent water leakage.

However, the best and safest method for vehicle transport is to place your pet fish in a bag or container and then into a hard insulated cooler to prevent temperature fluctuations. Place the cooler on a flat surface in the vehicle. Keep the fish in the cabin of the car, where your ventilation system regulates the temperature.

Any live plants should also be bagged with tank water to protect the natural bacteria and attempt to keep the tank’s conditions as similar as possible.

How to Travel With a Fish by Bus or Train

Currently, pet fish are not allowed on Greyhound or Flixbus , or Amtrack trains . Greyhound and Flixbus only allow service animals onto their buses.

Amtrack, on the other hand, will allow cats and dogs up to 20 pounds (combined weight of pet and carrier) on most routes lasting no more than seven hours. Pet fish are not allowed on Amtrack, however, all service animals are allowed. While a pet fish may be considered a comfort animal, unfortunately, Greyhound, Flixbus, and Amtrack do not designate emotional support animals as service animals.

Fish Supplies Needed for Traveling

Other than the bags, coolers, containers, and blankets listed above, if you want to be extra cautious you may want to consider adding pure oxygen to the water. Pure oxygen can be added to the plastic bag or container although some fish owners claim it is hard to find in retail shops. You should contact your local pet supply store or veterinarian before pursuing this route as both too little and too much oxygen can be harmful to fish.

For larger aquariums, the best option is to use a new 5-gallon utility plastic bucket . Fish don’t need a lot of room but it should be enough for them to move around comfortably.

Only fill the container with 1/3 water from the tank and leave the remaining space open for oxygen. Do not use tap water. Use water from the top of the tank where it is the cleanest and free from feces that sink and carry harmful bacteria.

Rocks or any objects should not be placed into the container with the fish. Do not place multiple fish into one bag or container as each fish needs its sack. For fish with sharp fins, a clean plastic container could also be used for sturdy transport.

Lastly, keeping the fish in a dark state will be less stressful because fish are inactive at night. Cover the container with a dark sheet or travel blanket to simulate evening hours.

Arriving at Your Destination

Upon arrival, taking care of your fish should be the priority. If the fish were transported in plastic bags, place the bag on top of the tank water. Allow the temperature of the bag to regulate to the temperature of the tank. However, if the fish is in a container or bucket it should first be placed into a bag and then put into the tank where it can acclimate. Finally, if the tank is empty, the water from the bag, container, or bucket can be poured directly into the tank.

Safe travels!

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How To Transport Fish – Tips For Long And Short Distance Travel

Just bought a fish and bringing them home? Or moving to a new home? Whenever the fish is in transit, this will be a very stressful time for them. Knowing how to transport fish correctly is crucial to their health.

Whether you’re transporting the fish short distances or long distances like across the country, you’ll need to put them in the right container and provide them with plenty of oxygen.  Below are tips to transport the fish and keep them alive and healthy.

How To Transport Fish In A Car

When transporting fish, a car is the easiest way and fastest way to get the fish from point A to point B.   Just being in transit will cause the fish to be stressed so you’ll want to get the fish to their destination as quickly as possible.

Below are some tips on how to transport the fish safely and securely to their destination.

Don’t Transport Fish In A Bucket

When moving fish around, most people look for the easiest thing to carry a fish in. This is usually a bucket that’s lying around. A bucket is great for putting the fish in while you’re cleaning the tank or moving the tank to a different area of the house.

However, when transporting them farther than the house, a bucket will not work. This is a big mistake that you can make.

As you know, we don’t live in a perfect world. On the roads, there are pot holes, bad drivers, and traffic lights. All these things will require you to depress the car brakes. Sometimes, you’ll need to bring the car to a quick stop. When this happens, the bucket may spill or tip completely over, causing the fish to fall out of the bucket. The fish may die instantly due to an injury caused by the falling bucket. If not, it may die later due to stress.

Transporting Fish In An Aquarium

When moving to a different home, some people think it’s a good idea just to move the entire aquarium with the fish in it. While this may seem like a good idea, there are some precautions you need to take.

When it comes to an aquarium, especially a glass one, there’s really no way of securing them to the car so this isn’t recommended as well. There’s no way of driving the car smoothly enough where the fish won’t get injured.

You’ll have to drive very slowly to prevent the water from swishing around in the aquarium. If you’re transporting the fish over a long distance, be prepared to add additional time for driving to the destination.

If you still insist on moving the fish in the aquarium, remove about half the water out of the tank. In addition, remove all decorations to prevent it from banging into the glass of the tank, which could ultimately break it.

When placing the aquarium in the car, make sure it’s placed on something soft like a blanket. When driving the car over a bump, the blanket will act as a cushion to prevent a hard impact on the aquarium. Without a blanket or something else soft, when driving over a bump or pothole, on the impact the glass could break due to the weight of the water in it.

Transporting Fish In A Plastic Bag

When choosing a plastic bag, most people will go for a grocery bag. It’s large and plentiful in the kitchen. However, grocery bags are not recommended for transporting fish due to its construction. Grocery bags are meant to carrying solid items, not carrying water. The seams along the grocery bags can tear easily, especially with the weight of the water. In addition, the bag itself is thin in design, which is prone to be damaged easily.

The best type of bag to use for transporting fish is a fish bag. A fish bag is typically made of a special type of foam and nylon webbing. They are designed to keep the fish safe while being transported. Fish bag is sold in pet stores and most places that sell fish.

If a fish bag isn’t available, make sure the plastic bag that you’ll be using doesn’t have any holes in them. Simply pour water into it and see if the bag leaks water.

Once your bag is ready for use, put aquarium water that the fish has been living in into the plastic bag. Doing so will help keep your fish alive during transportation because it has the right parameters.

Depending on the fish size, you’ll want to use the appropriate container to carry the fish.  For small fish, put a couple of them in the plastic bag. For large fish, it’s best to just put one in each bag or in a Rubbermaid tub.

When the fish are in the plastic bag, they only have about an hour to survive due to limited oxygen supply. If you are traveling longer than an hour, it’s recommended to get pure oxygen and put it in the bag before going. Pure oxygen will provide the needed oxygen for the fish while they are in the bag. Make sure to buy a couple as these pure oxygen tablets last only for a couple of hours or less, depending on how much oxygen your fish needs.

Oxygen For Fish Transport

When you’re transporting the fish from one location to another location via a car, it’s important that the fish get enough oxygen.  Oxygen is crucial for the health of the fish.  Without oxygen, the fish can start to develop health issues and may even die.

To prevent this problem, depending on how far and how long you’ll be traveling with the fish, it’s best to prepare the trip with a supply of oxygen.  The supply of oxygen can be in the form of pure oxygen tablets or using an air pump.

If you’re planning to transport the fish over a long distance, it’s best to use an air pump to supply oxygen.  For this setup, you’ll need an air pump, air hose, an air stone, and a power inverter to supply power to the air pump.  With this setup, there would be an endless supply of oxygen for the fish.

For shorter distances that is under an hour or so, you can use pure oxygen tablets to supply oxygen for the fish.  What these tablets do is release bubbles of air into the aquarium.  Once the bubbles reach the surface of the water, it will exchange gases with oxygen.

Pure oxygen tablets are great to use for shorter trips because they usually only last for an hour or so.  The more fish you have been transported, the quicker the tablet will dissolve.

How To Transport Fish Short Distances

When transporting fish short distances, you won’t need a lot of things.  For short distance trips, you’ll just need plastic bags to put the fish in and a couple of oxygen tablets.

For small fish, a plastic bag will do the job.  Just make sure to not use grocery bags as it could tear easily due to the weight of the water or the fish fins.  Place a couple of fish in each bag.  Make sure they have room to move around easily.

For larger fish like pond fish, a large container like a Rubbermaid tub is recommended.  It’s easier to put the fish in and take them out.  In addition, since the large fish are strong, the sturdiness of the tub can withstand the force of the fish.

Once the fish is in the plastic bags or the tub, drop an oxygen tablet into the water.  Without the oxygen tablet, the fish can survive on its own up to an hour.  But to be on the safe side, it’s best to add oxygen tablets for the fish.

How To Transport Fish Long Distance

When transporting fish long distance, you’ll need to prepare a lot of things in advance.  Since the fish will be in transport for over a longer period of time, they will get stressed. When fish get stressed, they can become ill and die.

To prepare for a long trip (0ver 4 hours) with the fish, make sure to do the following:

Aquarium Water Change

Make sure to change the water a couple of days before moving.  This will help ensure that the water is clean.  Empty about 20% of the water of the aquarium and refill it back.

Aquarium Plants And Decoration

For the plants and decorations, you’ll want to remove all of them out of the tank and place them in a plastic bag.  Before putting them in the bag, clean them thoroughly to get rid of all the debris and uneaten food that might get stuck on there.

If it’s live plants, pour the aquarium water into a plastic bag and put the plants in it.  Try not to overcrowd the plants in each bag.

Oxygen Supplies

Oxygen is very crucial for fish health so you don’t want to overlook this.  For the oxygen, you can either buy an oxygen tablet or use an air pump to supply oxygen for the fish.  Both are great to use and have their advantages and disadvantages.

For long-distance travel, it’s recommended to use an air pump.  With an air pump, you won’t have to worry about the fish not having oxygen.  However, with an air pump, you’ll need additional items to make it work.  An air stone, air hose, and the power inverter are needed.  If you have large fish that are being transported, an air pump is the recommended choice to use to supply the fish with oxygen.

For smaller fish, oxygen tablet is fine to use.  However, it will be a bit of work to keep checking to see if the oxygen tablet is all dissolved.  Oxygen tablets will need to be added every hour or so to help keep the water oxygenated.  The more fish you have, the faster the oxygen tablet will dissolve.  Before heading out, buy plenty of oxygen tablets for the trip.

Using The Right Containers

When it comes to long-distance travel, the plastic bag shouldn’t be used at all.  Plastic bags are great for short distance travel, but not long distances.  You’ll need to provide oxygen for the fish every hour and opening and closing the plastic bag will be a lot of work, especially if you have a lot of fish.

The containers that are suitable for transporting the fish long distance are Rubbermaid tub, Styrofoam container, or a cooler.  These containers are big, sturdy, and are easy to add oxygen supplies to them.

Depending on your fish species, make sure to have plenty of fish food for a long trip.  An hour or so before putting them in the container, feed them regularly as you would.

Once you’re on the road, follow the same feeding schedule as you would do at home.  When feeding them, it’s a good idea to stop the car first and feed them.  If you try to feed them while the car is moving, it probably be hard for the fish to try and eat the fish food.

How To Transport Large Fish

When it comes to transporting large fish, this can be very challenging for anyone.  First off, they are large, heavy, and strong.  Not knowing how to properly transport them can cause injury not just to the fish, but yourself as well.  In order to transport large fish safely, you need the right equipment with the right setup.

Before catching the fish, it’s recommended to get all the equipment and gear first.  Below are the items you’ll need to transport the large fish safely:

• 30 gallon or larger clean Rubbermaid tub or similar item with a lid
• Stress Coat Drops
• Aquarium Water
• An aquarium air pump with an air hose
• A 50 watt or 100-watt power inverter that can be plugged into your car
• A large fishing net and an extra helping hand

Once you got all the items ready, it’s time to prepare the fish for transport.   First, clean the Rubbermaid tub with water until it’s cleaned of debris and dirt.  Try not to use soap or detergent as the residue maybe left in the tub.  Due to the strong chemicals used in the soap and detergent, it could kill the fish.

Next, fill the tub a little more than half full of aquarium or pond water that the fish is swimming in right now.  After filling the tub, grab the stress coat drops and add it to the water in the tub.  The stress coat drop will help relieve stress and calm down the fish while it’s being transported.

Now use the large fishing net to grab the fish from the pond or aquarium and place it in the tub.  It’s best to just put one fish per tub, with a maximum of 2 fish per tub.  You’ll want to leave them some room to swim to prevent them from being stressed.

Once the large fish is in the tub, carry the tub and put it in the car.  It’s best to put them on a truck, but if you have just a car, the back seat works fine.

After the tub and fish is in the care, take the air pump and drop the air hose into the tub.  Then plug the air pump to the power inverter and plug the power inverter to the car’s cigarette lighter or another power supply outlet in the car.

With this setup, you can transport the fish to any destination that you want.  The fish has a continuous supply of oxygen so you won’t have to worry if the large fish can’t breathe.  However, you may want to reach your destination as soon as possible.  A large fish is used to being out in a large open space.  When you have them contained in a small area, they may get stressed.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can you transport fish in a ziplock bag.

Technically, Ziplock bags can be used for transporting the fish because it’s a bag. However, it should only be used for a short period of time.

With Ziplock bags, the issue with them is their design that makes it less than ideal for transporting fish.  Ziplock bags are narrow, perfect for storing sandwiches and other food items, but not fish. Due to its narrowness, it will be hard for the fish to swim in.

The ideal bag for them should be large and round, which will allow them ample room to swim around. Fish need to swim in order to breathe. With a Ziplock bag, that will be very difficult for the fish to do.

If you must use a Ziplock bag, make sure you need to use it just for a couple of minutes. Ziplock bags are fine if it’s used for temporary storing the fish while you move the fish tank to a different location of the house.

Where To Buy Fish Transport Bags

Transport bags can be bought at most pet stores.  Besides pet stores, you can buy fish transport bags at Amazon too.

It’s best to use transport bags for transporting fish than the grocery bags.  Grocery bags are not meant to hold water and because the material is thin, it tends to leak easily.

Can Fish Suffocate In Bags?

Yes, fish can definitely suffocate in bags. Sadly, this is usually the case of a dead fish when it reached its destination.  Most people underestimate how much time a fish can survive in a bag.  The weather, how many fish are in the bag, and how far the fish is being transported is a big factor in how long the fish can survive in the bag.

Most of the time, when you buy a fish or a couple of fish, it’s put into a small bag with no more than a couple liters of water in it. The more fish that’s in there, the more oxygen the fish will breathe in. Usually, in an hour, the oxygen in the bag will all be depleted. When this happens, the fish will start to suffocate and die.

To prevent the fish from suffocating in the bag, you’ll either have to rush home real quickly or buy pure oxygen from the fish store. These pure oxygen are tablets that you drop into the water and it will provide oxygen for the fish. This is great if you’re planning to do extra shopping or transporting the fish which will be longer than 1 hour.

Fred has been a fishkeeper his whole life. At the age of 3 yrs old, he got started with a goldfish that was given to him on his birthday. Ever since then, he loved caring for fish of all types and species. Beside fishkeeping, he enjoy fly fishing and the outdoors with his 4 kids.

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Safe And Comfortable Ways To Transport Fish (Short & Long Distances)

Having an aquarium can be a wonderful hobby.

Many people keep fish as pets and have large aquariums with many different kinds of fish.

Usually, once you get fish, you keep them in their tank with the expectation of not having to move them anywhere.

However, if you are relocating – like moving to a new home, you’d have to find a way to transport your fish in a way that is safe for them until they are reintroduced to their tank.

Transporting Your Fish

Unlike most other pets, you can’t keep a fish tank or fishbowl in the car and drive. You have to find out how to transport them safely.

Most fish can survive travel for up to 48 hours, but if you go beyond that, there is a risk that they might die.

Plan for Transport

To make sure your fish remain safe, you have to make sure you plan out how you’ll go about transporting your fish.

Make sure you know when you’re traveling, how long it’ll take, and what container you will be using to transport your fish.

If you are planning to stop for the night, you will have to keep the fish with you instead of leaving it unattended in the car.

If you are going to fly, make sure you ask the airlines what arrangements and rules they have for transporting fish.

• Change Water

A few days before you start traveling, change out some of the water in the aquarium.

Switch out around 20% of the water in the tank every day for about five days before you have to transport the fish. This is to make sure that the water is clean when you start to travel.

• Avoid Feeding

When you’re transporting your fish, it will be kept in a container with a small amount of limited water.

In such times, you don’t want them to mess up the water more than absolutely necessary. Fish can survive for up to a week without feeding, so they’ll be fine if they aren’t fed during the move.

To avoid it contaminating the water, you can stop feeding them up to 2 days before you have to transport them.

• Pack the Fish Last

Don’t pack the fish for transport until everything is absolutely ready. You want to keep the fish contained for as little time as possible, so make sure that you pack them last and that you unpack them first when you arrive at your destination.

• Avoid Unnecessary Travel

Fish are very fragile and cannot be easily transported, so you shouldn’t carry them around in a vehicle unless it is absolutely necessary.

Choosing a Container for Transport

You should also consider what container you will be transporting your fish in.

Different fish will have different requirements, and what kind of travel is needed will also have different requirements.

In most cases, pet fish tend to be small, and can easily fit into plastic bags, but you should consider the fish’s safety first and make sure that whatever transport method you are using is not going to harm the fish in the long-run.

• Precautions for Transport

Regardless of which container you choose, make sure that there is enough air inside it for the fish to be able to breathe.

You also want to use water from the top of the fish’s tank itself since it has the right temperature and composition that the fish is used to, and has been cleaned by the aquarium filters.

Using water from the top is important since it is clean, while the water at the bottom will have sunken waste.

In some cases, you might want to cover the container with a plastic sheet with holes in it so that the water doesn’t spill over too much, but the fish is still able to breathe.

Don’t keep items in the container with your fish. Decorations, plants, and rocks in the tank should not be moved in the same container as the fish so that it can stay safe.

Also, try to make sure that the container you use is insulated, and if not, then make sure that the fish is not kept in a place with extreme temperatures, or with other containers where it could be harmed by movement. It is best to keep your fish container with you at all times.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that the fish may get stressed from the move, so you should keep their container in the dark.

This is because fish are active during the day and will sleep at night, so if you keep them in a darker environment, they will be more likely to spend the transport time easily.

Avoid feeding fish during the travel, and reintroduce the fish to the tank as soon as you reach your destination.

• How Long Can Fish Live in A Bag?

While you may have considered getting a bowl or container for your fish while relocating, you should also know the answer to this question.

Most likely, any fish you get will come in a bag, from which you will be transferring it to the tank.

Usually, fish can live comfortably in a bag of water for up t0 7 hours. Sometimes, fish pet stores add oxygen to the bag before they give it to you, increasing that time span up to 48 hours.

How long a fish manages to survive in a bag depends largely upon the amount of air contained within it.

Small fish usually don’t need a bowl or tank for transport either, and can simply be moved around in a bag containing air and water.

You’d need about 2 gallons of water to keep the fish safe. When transporting fish in a bag, you would also need to make sure that any excess air in the bag is replaced with oxygen.

The bag should be sealed to avoid any air slipping out and placed in an insulated container before you transport the fish to the tank

When you reach your destination, let the bags float on top of the water of the tank they are to be introduced to, so that the temperature of the water is regulated.

When this is done, you can simply pour the fish with the water into the tank.

• Can You Use a Ziploc Bag?

To put it simply: yes, but there are some important things to keep in mind before you do so.

Fish should not stay inside a Ziploc bag for more than half an hour, and it is extremely important to make sure that the bag is clean and without any holes.

It is also best to use a bag of the largest size, and don’t keep more than one fish in one bag.

The fish’s survival in a Ziploc bag depends on the quality of the water. If the water is clean with enough oxygen, it will last longer.

When keeping your fish in a Ziploc bag, make sure that the bag is kept upright because if kept at an angle or upside down, it may cause the bag’s waterproof seals to break and result in leakages, which could put the fish in danger.

Also, make sure that the Ziploc bag is of suitable quality because some bags could leak chemicals into the water, which could also cause harm to the fish.

If the fish is a saltwater fish, then you might want to reduce the amount of time the fish is kept in the bag, since saltwater gets polluted faster by the chemicals.

Fish must also not be kept in a Ziploc bag for too long because if the seal breaks, then oxygen would leak out of the bag, causing a shortage, which could result in the fish’s death.

• Precautions for Keeping a Fish In a Bag

Make sure that you don’t keep more than one fish in one bag to avoid them using up the oxygen faster

Also, use a second bag over the first one to protect the fish in case the bag leaks

The bag should be secured tightly using a rubber band so that no water can leak, and the fish doesn’t accidentally fall out

If the fish are to be in the bag longer than an hour, make sure you get some pure oxygen from the pet store so that they can be safe.

Using Other Containers

• Can You Use Tupperware?

One important thing to keep in mind is that fish should not be kept in closed containers.

No matter what kind of fish it is, it will need oxygen that it will not be able to get if the container is closed. Especially small containers will run out of oxygen faster, so you must not keep your fish in small Tupperware containers.

If you have to transport a fish in a closed container, make sure it is for a very small amount of time.

If you are keeping your fish in Tupperware, make sure that the container is large, with plenty of space for air and water, if you want to keep the fish in it for longer than an hour. However, even with large containers, it is still not safe for the fish to be kept in a closed container for longer periods of time, because the fish will need oxygen and it will eventually run out.

• Can You Use An Aquarium?

If you are transporting your fish in an aquarium, you need to be very careful that your aquarium is handled safely and kept secure during the move.

Usually, there is no proper way to keep an aquarium safe, especially if it is made of glass in a car and drive smooth enough to keep the fish safe.

However, if you are still planning on moving the fish in the aquarium itself, make sure that you remove enough water to avoid spilling but keep enough for the fish to remain safe.

You’d also want to make sure that there are no decorations within the tank so that they don’t crack the glass of the aquarium and don’t end up floating around.

• Can You Use A Bucket?

You can also use a bucket if you do not have an adequate bag for transporting your fish.

If you are doing so, however, you have to see to it that you buy a new bucket specifically for moving the fish and that it does not have any chemicals on the inside.

These chemicals may leak into the water and harm the fish. Cover the bucket with a water-tight lid to prevent spilling but make sure that there is enough air inside for the fish to breathe. IF the bucket is large, it can also be used to transport multiple fish at once.

• Caring for The Fish Tank During Travel

If you are moving to a new location, it is likely that you would also be moving the tank you were previously keeping your fish in.

You’d want to make sure that you care for the tank during the transport so that when you reintroduce your fish to it, it is not damaged.

Place any decorations you’ve been keeping in the tank in water from the tank itself to preserve any beneficial bacteria that may have grown on them. Don’t keep them in the tank itself to avoid cracks.

If you had live plants in the tank, keep them in a bag filled with tank water.

Make sure you pack the filter properly in a clean and chemical-free container without cleaning.

If your travel time is longer, you might want to clean it and reintroduce it to the tank when you arrive, but it would be recommended to just buy a new one.

Make sure that when you put your aquarium back together, you try to keep it as close to its original state as possible.

Place the rocks and ornaments into the tank and fill it with water. Make sure the water is filtered, and the temperature is regulated. Then you can place the live plants into the tank, and lastly, the fish.

25 Small Aquarium Fish for Your Freshwater Tank

These small fish are perfect for just about any freshwater aquarium.

Jessie Sanders, DVM, DABVP (Fish Practice), is an accomplished aquatic veterinary medicine expert with nearly two decades of experience working with private patients and aquaculture facilities. She owns Aquatic Veterinary Services and specilaizes in fish surgery. Dr. Sanders was one of the first Certified Aquatic Veterinarians through the World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association.

The Spruce / Adrienne Legault

Looking for a small addition to a new or existing freshwater aquarium? We have the best of the small aquarium fish species for your tank. Most of these fish grow to less than 3 inches, but note that many of these species do best when kept in a small school of a minimum of three to five individuals.

Before adding new fish species, do your research thoroughly to make sure the required environmental parameters of the new fish species match the existing conditions in your aquarium and that all the fish are compatible. All new fish should be quarantined in a separate tank with separate equipment for four to six weeks to prevent the introduction of disease.

Here are 25 small aquarium fish to consider for your freshwater tank.

Mickey Mouse Platy

MATTHIASROBBIONE/Getty Images

Platys are colorful fish that are very suitable for beginners. Since they are livebearing fish, many hobbyists start out with only a few fish—which can quickly multiply into many fish. The Mickey Mouse platy is named for a very specific color pattern formed in the tail peduncle. The minimum tank size for this species is 10 gallons.

Other platys include the red wagtail , wagtail, and many more .

Species Overview

Common Names:  Golden moon platy, Mickey Mouse platy, moonfish

Scientific Name:   Xiphophorus maculatus

Adult Size:  1 1/2 to 2 inches (3 1/2 to 5 centimeters)

Life Span : 5 years

isoft/Getty Images

Guppies are a cornerstone of the small fish aquarium hobby. Another livebearing species, guppy tanks are often overrun with offspring from frequent breeding. The best skill any guppy owner can learn is to tell the difference between males and females to keep populations from exploding. The males are smaller and more colorful fish, while the larger females can have a colorful tail fin but the body is plain with a large white belly.

The more guppies you have, the bigger your tank needs to be. For instance, if you have a 30-gallon tank, you can keep around 15 guppies, but if you have a 10-gallon tank, only about five of them can be kept in it.

Common Name: Guppy 

Scientific Name:   Poecilia reticulata

Adult Size:  2 inches (5 centimeters)

Life Span:  3 to 5 years

Zebra Danio (Zebrafish)

These small, striped fish are one of the few in the aquarium hobby that don't require warm tropical temperatures. Zebrafish are peaceful, community players that love schooling in groups of five or more fish. There are multiple Danio species available in the pet market with a variety of colors and markings. There is a long fin variety of zebra danio, and this fish is also available in glow colors that were developed by adding fluorescent genes into the fish. You’ll need at least a 10-gallon tank for them.

Common Names: Striped danio, zebra danio, zebrafish

Scientific Name:   Danio rerio

Life Span:  5 years

Mirko_Rosenau/Getty Images

One of the most common small freshwater aquarium species is the neon tetra. These fish are known for their colorful appearance with bright red and blue stripes. They are great community fish and school together in a vibrant wave.

The cardinal tetra is another, very similar species. They are distinguishable from the more common neon tetra by their longer red belly bar that extends all the way to the head. The black neon tetra is a similar species with black and gold bars instead of red and blue colors. Depending on the type of tetra you get, you’ll need a 10- or 20-gallon tank at minimum.

Common Names: Neon tetra, neon fish

Scientific Name:   Paracheirodon innesi

Adult Size:  1 1/2 inches (4 centimeters)

White Cloud Mountain Minnow

Besjunior/Getty Images

The white cloud mountain minnow is another species of small community fish that does not require warm tropical temperatures. These fish do well in temperate tanks with zebrafish and goldfish, provided they are not snack size. These fish are commonly added to aquascape setups, where focus is put on the plants, not necessarily the fish, and just a school of one species of fish is added into the aquarium. The minimum tank size for these fish is 10 gallons.

Common Names: Canton danio, Chinese danio, white cloud, white cloud mountain fish, white cloud mountain minnow

Scientific Name:   Tanichthys albonubes

Harlequin Rasbora

The harlequin rasbora is a small, schooling fish with a vibrant ruby coloration, contrasted with a black marking on the back half of the body, giving them the two-toned "harlequin" appearance. These peaceful fish add a bright splash of color to planted or aquascaped tanks. There are also other species of rasbora, like the scissortail , that stay small and do well in community aquariums. If you have a 20-gallon tank, you can house 10 harlequin rasboras in it.

Common Name: Harlequin rasbora, red rasbora

Scientific Name:   Trigonostigma heteromorpha

Adult Size:  1 3/4 inches (4 1/2 centimeters)

Life Span:  6 years

Serpae Tetra

The serpae tetra is a smaller fish with a big personality. These bright red schooling fish with black spots on the body and fins provide color to natural aquascapes with lots of aquatic plants. These fish are very active, and have the habit of biting fins of their friends and tankmates. There is a longfin variety of this fish species that is sometimes available at fish stores. These fish require a minimum tank size of 20 gallons.

Common Names: Blood characin, callistus tetra, jewel tetra, red minor tetra, red serpae, serpae tetra

Scientific Name:   Hyphessobrycon eques

Panda Corydoras

Miropa/Getty Images

The panda corydoras is a common corydoras species seen in the pet trade. These catfish have a white or translucent body with contrasting black spots on the head and tail base, giving them their panda-esque coloration. The minimum tank size for these fish is 10 gallons.

There are multiple species of corydoras catfish with similar, peaceful temperaments. The main differences between these species are their colors and markings. All corydoras are small, peaceful, bottom-dwelling, nocturnal fish species.

Common Names: Panda catfish, panda cory, panda corydoras

Scientific Name:   Corydoras panda

Life Span:  10 years

Glowlight Tetra

bdspn/Getty Images

The glowlight tetra is not to be confused with GloFish species . Their coloration comes from natural color patterns and has not been genetically engineered. This is a peaceful schooling tetra that is easy to care for. The translucent, silvery body of the glowlight tetra is divided by an iridescent red-gold stripe running from snout to tail. A 10-gallon tank is all you need, at minimum, for these tetras.

Common Names: Glowlight tetra, glolight, fire neon

Scientific Name:   Hemigrammus erythrozonus

Daniel Szente/Flickr

A newer addition to the aquarium hobby, the pea puffer is a small but mighty member of the pufferfish family. Don't let their small size trick you! These small fish can be aggressive, even against their own kind. They are usually kept by themselves in a heavily planted aquarium of at least 5 gallons, or two to three can be kept in a 10-gallon aquarium. If keeping them with other fish, those should be small but fast swimming, non-aggressive species.

The pea puffer is not recommended for beginner hobbyists. Proper diet and environment are key in long-term survival of these fish. They are carnivores, so they do well on a diet of frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and other meaty foods, and may eat small fish food pellets.

Common Names: Pea puffer, dwarf puffer, bumblebee puffer, Malabar puffer, pygmy puffer

Scientific Name:   Carinotetraodon travancoricus

Adult Size:  1 to 1 1/2 inches (3 to 4 centimeters)

Life Span:  4 years

The tiger barb is an easy fish to take care of, but they do not play well in community tanks. Be sure they are in a tank with more aggressive fish and have lots of room to swim. They do better when kept in a school of six or more tiger barbs. They need a 20-gallon tank, at minimum.

There are several color variations available, including green and albino. There is a longfin variety that is sometimes available at fish stores, as well as a fluorescent GloFish tiger barb.

Common Names: Tiger barb, sumatra barb, and partbelt barb

Scientific Name:    Barbus tetrazona

Adult Size:  3 inches (7 centimeters)

Named for the elongated extension of the caudal fin in males, the swordtail is another livebearer fish that can quickly overpopulate a small aquarium. There are many color varieties of swordtail available in the pet fish market. They are peaceful fish, larger than most other livebearers. The females are as colorful as the males but don't have the sword extension on their tail fin. In terms of tanks size, a minimum of 20 gallons is best.

Common Name: Swordtail 

Scientific Name:   Xiphophorus helleri

Adult Size:  3 to 4 inches (7 to 10 centimeters)

German Blue Ram

There are many species within the cichlid family , but relatively few that stay small in size and can be kept in a community aquarium. The German blue ram is one such species, but is not recommended for beginners given their strict water quality and habitat requirements. They are a beautiful addition to planted aquariums with warm, acidic water conditions. Also, 20 gallons is the minimum tank size for this fish.  

Common Names: German blue ram, ram cichlid, German blue

Scientific Name:   Mikrogeophagus ramirezi

Adult Size:  2 to 3 inches (5 to 7 centimeters)

Buenos Aires Tetra

The Buenos Aires tetra is making a comeback in the aquarium hobby. Once known as voracious plant eaters, these colorful fish are being seen more in heavily planted tanks, where plant food is plentiful. These community fish are easy to care for and can tolerate many beginner mistakes. Despite being small, they need a least a 30-gallon tank.

Common Names: Buenos Aires tetra, diamond spot characin, red cross fish

Scientific Name:   Hyphessobrycon anisitsi

Adult Size:  2 3/4 inches (7 centimeters)

Dwarf Gourami

Mirko_Rosenau / Getty Images

Of the many gourami species, there are few that stay small. Most gouramis are medium-sized fish, but the dwarf gourami, as the name suggests, tops out at only 2 inches. Like other gouramis, these intermediate-level fish have specific environmental requirements for successful lives. The dwarf gourami can be kept in a community aquarium with other small, peaceful fish species.

The male has brilliant red and blue bands, and the female has more subdued coloration. There are several color varieties of this species, such as the powder blue dwarf gourami, which is all blue and has no red bands. At a minimum, they need a 5-gallon tank.

Common Names: Dwarf gourami, flame gourami, powder blue gourami, red gourami, sunset gourami

Scientific Name:   Trichogaster Ialius

Gold (Chinese) Barb

NERYX/Getty Images

Although this fish is green in the wild, they've been captively bred to show brilliant golden coloration. There are a few other colors that have subsequently been bred, including an albino and a tricolor variation. These active fish play well in community tanks, but do prefer slightly less than tropical temperatures.

Gold barbs are schooling fish and should be kept in groups of six or more. Their peaceful nature makes them an excellent choice for community aquariums with tetras, danios, and other small barbs. They should have, at minimum, a 20-gallon tank.

Common Names: China barb, Chinese barb, Chinese half-striped barb, gold barb, green barb, half banded barb, half-stripes barb, Schubert's barb, six-banded banded barb

Scientific Name:   Puntius semifasciolatus

Adult Size:  3 inches (7 1/2 centimeters)

Getty Images/DEA/C. DANI

Betta fish are one of the most common pet fish species. Given their aggressive nature, male bettas must be kept away from other male bettas. However, one male betta can be kept in a community aquarium with fast swimming, non-aggressive fish species. Usually, several females can be kept together in an aquarium with other fish species, but sometimes even female bettas may fight each other. The male and female should only be together when breeding, then the female removed, or the male will bully her and can cause damage.

Betta fish come in a rainbow variety of colors and tail shapes. They should be kept in a spacious tank of 5 to 10 gallons or more, not in a tiny bowl like you find them at pet stores. 

Common Names: Betta, Siamese fighting fish

Scientific Name:   Betta splendens

Life Span:  2 to 3 years

Looking for a more challenging and rare small fish species? Hatchetfish have a very unique, compressed body shape, and they're known for flying over the top of the water using their wing-like fins. These fish are not for beginners, since they have very specific tank requirements. They will leap out of the water if frightened, so the aquarium must have a secure and tight-fitting lid to keep the fish from flying out. Place these fish in a tank that’s at least 30 gallons.

Common Name: Marbled hatchetfish

Scientific Name:   Carnegiella strigata

Adult Size:  1 to 2 inches (3 to 5 centimeters)

Congo Tetra

 Getty Images/Mirko_Rosenau

The Congo tetra pushes the maximum length of the small fish category, but these schooling fish are a rainbow addition to many tanks. They are peaceful aquarium fish, with males having longer fins than females. Aim to keep them with other species that are about the same size or smaller. Good examples of tankmates include rainbowfish, swordtails, guppies, and other tetras. Also, keep them in a 30-gallon tank, at a minimum, if you have a smaller school of six fish—larger schools will need a bigger tank.

Common Name: Congo tetra

Scientific Name:   Phenacogrammus interruptus

Adult Size:  3 to 3 1/2 inches (7 to 9 centimeters)

Beacon Fish

Dennis Amith/Flickr

The Beacon fish is another member of the tetra family. Also known as the head and tail light tetra, this fish has distinctive copper spots that resemble lights on a vehicle—one is located at the base of the tail and the other is above the eye. These fish do best in lower lighting with lots of plant cover. The minimum tank size for them is 15 gallons.

Common Names: Beacon fish, beacon tetra, head and tail light tetra

Scientific Name:   Hemigrammus ocellifer

Black Phantom Tetra

Rather than bright colors, the black phantom tetra is known for a darker appearance with elongated dorsal fin. The black phantom tetra gets their name from an "eye patch" behind the gills, as if a phantom is peering back at you. But don't worry, despite the name, this is a peaceful schooling fish. These fish make a great contrast with other colorful tetra species that will typically all school together. They require, at minimum, a 10-gallon tank.

Common Names: Black phantom tetra, phantom tetra

Scientific Name:   Hyphessobrycon megalopterus

Black Ruby Barb

Derek Ramsey/Wikimedia Commons

Also known as the purple-headed barb, the black ruby barb has a distinct deep red coloration not commonly seen in other aquarium fish. With a similar body shape as the tiger barb, these fish start with a pale yellow body that deepens with maturity. Adult males are noticeably smaller, slimmer, and more colorful than females. They should be housed in a 30-gallon tank, at a minimum.

Common Names: Purple-headed barb, purplehead barb, ruby barb, black barb

Scientific Name:   Pethia nigrofasciata

Cherry Barb

The cherry barb is named for the male’s bright red color—the female has more subdued coloration that is more orange than red—so they can be a lovely addition to your aquarium if you want to add a colorful fish. These barbs like to be in schools of five or six, at a minimum. They can also be in a peaceful tank with other barbs and tetras. 25 gallons is the minimum tank size for them.

Common Name:  Cherry barb

Scientific Name:  Puntius titteya  

Adult Size: 2 inches (5 centimeters)

Life Span: 4 to 6 years 

There are various types of mollies, and they come in a wide range of colors and boast beautiful fins and tails. For example, there are solid black mollies and albino mollies that have red eyes. These small fish are relatively hardy livebearers, and they also prefer being in warmer water, so be sure your temperature is correct for them. These peaceful fish need a minimum tank size of 20 gallons.

Common Names:  Sailfin molly, white molly, black molly, lyretail molly, golden molly, dalmatian molly, short-finned molly

Scientific Name:  Poecilia sp.

Adult Size: Up to 5.5 inches (14 centimeters)

Life Span: 5 years 

Pearl Danio

The pearl danio is easy to care for, as they can tolerate a range of water conditions. They also make a lovely addition to any tank filled with peaceful community fish. And they easily reproduce, so you might get more of them if you care for them properly. These iridescent fish are eye-catching, with their blue-violet body and orange-red stripe that runs from the mid-body to the tail. They should be kept in schools, and the minimum tank size for this species is 20 gallons.

Common Names:  Pearl danio, spotted danio

Scientific Name:   Danio albolineatus

Life Span:  5 years

This depends on the fish and the size of the tank. However, the basic math is 1 inch of fish to 1 to 2 gallons of water.

The best way to take care of your new aquarium is by maintaining it: keep an eye on water conditions, including the pH level and temperature, and make sure the tank is cleaned monthly. Then, make sure the fish you add are properly acclimated, and watch your fish closely to be sure they are thriving.

Most fish thrive on two feedings a day, morning and night. The fish will see you approach the aquarium with the food in your hands and swim to the surface. But you need to know what to feed them. There are fish flakes, fish pellets, fish tablets, and fresh food. If you aren’t sure, pet store employees may be able to answer your questions and help ensure you have the right food for the breeds in your tank.

More from The Spruce Pets

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• Congo Tetra: Fish Species Profile
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• 11 Easiest Fish to Take Care Of For Beginners
• 17 Tropical Fish for Beginners
• Cardinal Tetra: Fish Species Profile
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• 6 Loach Species for Your Aquarium
• Guppy: Fish Species Profile
• 20 Colorful Species of Rainbowfish
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Tips For Keeping Your Fish Alive While Traveling

• Last updated May 11, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Are you an avid fish owner who loves to travel? If so, you may have experienced the stress of leaving your beloved aquatic friends at home while you embark on your adventures. Luckily, there are several tips and tricks you can follow to ensure the survival and well-being of your fish while you're away. In this article, we will delve into some helpful suggestions for keeping your fish alive and thriving while you're on the go. So, if you're eager to travel without worrying about your aquatic companions, read on!

What You'll Learn

Planning ahead: providing adequate care for your fish before you leave, ensuring a stable environment: maintaining water quality and temperature, proper feeding techniques: providing nutritious meals for your fish during your absence, seeking reliable assistance: enlisting the help of a trustworthy fish-sitter.

Going on vacation is an exciting time, but it can also create stress and worry about the well-being of your fish while you are away. Proper planning and preparation are essential to ensure that your fish remain healthy and happy during your absence. In this article, we will discuss some key steps you can take to provide adequate care for your fish before you leave.

Feed Your Fish Properly:

• It is important to properly feed your fish before you leave. Overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and health issues, while underfeeding can result in malnutrition. So, it's crucial to find the right balance.
• Avoid feeding your fish for a day or two before you leave to reduce waste and keep the water cleaner.
• Invest in an automatic fish feeder. These devices can dispense the correct amount of food at predetermined times, ensuring your fish are fed regularly and in the right portions.

Test and Optimize Water Parameters:

• Testing your aquarium water is vital to maintaining a healthy environment for your fish.
• Test the water a few days before your departure to identify any issues that need to be addressed.
• Do a partial water change to improve water quality and remove any accumulated waste or toxins.
• Adjust the water parameters, such as temperature, pH, and hardness, to ensure they are within the optimal range for your fish.

Install a Backup Power Source:

• Power outages can be disastrous for your fish while you are away. Consider installing a backup power source, such as a battery-powered air pump or a generator, to maintain oxygen levels in the tank.
• Ensure the backup power source is in good working condition and set up before you leave.

Enlist a Trustworthy Caretaker:

• Find someone knowledgeable and responsible to take care of your fish while you are away.
• Provide clear instructions on feeding, water testing, and any other necessary tasks.
• Give the caretaker your contact information in case of emergencies or questions.

Automate Water Changes:

• Maintaining water quality is crucial for the well-being of your fish. Consider automating your water changes during your absence.
• Set up a drip system or an automatic water changer that slowly replaces a portion of the water regularly.
• Ensure that the water used for the water changes has been properly treated and is at the correct temperature and parameters.

Monitor Your Aquarium Remotely:

• Consider investing in an aquarium monitoring system with remote access capabilities.
• These systems allow you to monitor temperature, water quality, and other essential parameters from your smartphone or computer.
• Some systems also send alerts in case of any issues, allowing you to take immediate action.

Keep the Environment Stable and Stress-Free:

• Minimize any changes or disturbances in the aquarium environment a few days before you leave.
• Avoid introducing new fish or rearranging decorations, as these can cause stress and disrupt the established balance.

By implementing these steps and planning ahead, you can ensure that your fish are well-cared for and healthy during your absence. Remember to give yourself enough time to prepare and communicate effectively with caretakers or other responsible individuals. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy your vacation knowing that your fish are in good hands.

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Keeping fish alive when you travel can be a challenge, but with the right preparation and knowledge, you can ensure that your finned friends stay happy and healthy while you're away. One of the most crucial factors to consider is maintaining the water quality and temperature in their tank. Here are some tips on how to achieve this:

Conduct a water change before leaving:

Before you embark on your trip, perform a partial water change in the tank. This will help to remove any accumulated waste, toxins, and nitrates that may harm your fish while you are away. Aim to replace about 25% of the water with fresh, dechlorinated water.

Clean the tank and filter:

Ensure that the fish tank and the filter are clean and functioning properly. Clean the tank walls, gravel, and any decorations to remove any excess waste or debris that could harm the water quality. Additionally, clean or replace the filter media to maintain optimal filtration.

Use automatic feeders:

Invest in an automatic fish feeder to ensure your fish are fed regularly and in the right quantities. Set up the feeder to dispense the appropriate amount of food at the necessary times. This will help ensure your fish receive proper nutrition while you're away, without overfeeding them.

Install a backup power source:

Unexpected power outages can disrupt the temperature and filtration systems in your fish tank. To prevent this, consider using a backup power source such as a battery-operated air pump or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). These devices can keep the air circulation and filtration running during power outages, maintaining a stable environment for your fish.

Adjust the heater:

If your fish tank requires a heater, ensure that it's set to the appropriate temperature range for your fish species. Monitor the tank's temperature daily before leaving to make sure it's functioning correctly and maintaining a stable heat level. Ideally, the temperature should remain within the recommended range for your fish throughout your absence.

Ask a reliable person for assistance:

If possible, ask a trustworthy person, such as a friend or neighbor who is familiar with fish care, to check on your tank periodically. This person can help ensure that the water quality and temperature remain stable and resolve any issues that may arise while you're away.

Close curtains or shades:

To prevent rapid temperature fluctuations caused by direct sunlight, close the curtains or shades in the room where the fish tank is located. This will help stabilize the tank's temperature and reduce the risk of overheating or cooling.

Remember, maintaining a stable environment is essential for the health and well-being of your fish. By following these tips and planning ahead, you can rest assured that your fish will remain alive and thrive while you enjoy your trip.

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Having pet fish can bring joy and tranquility to your life. But what happens when you have to travel and leave your fish behind? How can you ensure that they stay healthy and fed during your absence? Proper feeding techniques are essential for providing nutritious meals for your fish while you're away. Here are some tips to keep your fish alive and well-fed when you travel.

• Automatic Feeders: Investing in an automatic fish feeder is a great way to ensure your fish get their meals on time. These feeders can be programmed to dispense food at specific times and in specific amounts. Make sure to choose a feeder that suits the food type and size of your fish, and test it out before leaving to ensure everything is working correctly. Place the automatic feeder in a secure location, so it doesn't fall into the tank.
• Slow-Release Vacation Feeders: Another option is to use slow-release vacation feeders. These are blocks or pellets that slowly dissolve over time, releasing small amounts of food into the tank. While convenient, it's essential to choose a high-quality feeder to ensure it doesn't make the water murky or release too much food at once. Test the feeder before your trip to gauge how long it takes to dissolve and adjust the quantity if necessary.
• Portion Control: While using an automatic feeder or vacation feeder, it's crucial to consider portion control. Overfeeding can lead to water contamination and health problems for your fish. Consult with a fish expert or do some research to determine the appropriate amount of food your fish should be consuming each day. Adjust the feeder accordingly to meet their dietary needs and prevent overfeeding.
• Freeze-Dried or Pellet Fish Food: Opt for freeze-dried or pellet fish food since it tends to have a longer shelf life compared to live or frozen food. These food options can be easily dispensed by both automatic and vacation feeders. Moreover, they don't spoil quickly and keep the water cleaner for longer periods. Remember to choose a food that matches the dietary requirements of your fish, as different fish species have different nutritional needs.
• Water Quality Maintenance: While you're away, it's crucial to maintain the water quality in your fish tank. Poor water quality can lead to stress and health problems for your fish. Prior to leaving, perform a partial water change to ensure the tank water is clean and free of toxins. You can also consider using a water conditioner or aquarium salt to maintain good water quality during your absence.
• Enlist a Reliable Caretaker: If possible, enlist the help of a reliable caretaker, such as a neighbor, friend, or family member, to check on your fish and feed them while you're away. Provide clear instructions on feeding quantities and schedules, as well as any other necessary care tasks. Ensure they have access to emergency contact information in case any issues arise.
• Test Run: No matter which feeding method you choose, it's essential to test it out before your trip. Set up the automatic or vacation feeder a few days in advance and monitor its performance. Adjust the settings or quantities if needed. This test run will give you peace of mind and allow you to make any necessary adjustments to ensure your fish are well-fed while you're away.

Remember, proper feeding techniques are crucial to keeping your fish healthy and alive while you're traveling. By using automatic feeders, portion control, choosing the right food, maintaining water quality, and enlisting the help of a caretaker if possible, you can ensure that your fish receive nutritious meals even in your absence. Enjoy your trip, knowing that you've taken the necessary steps to care for your fish.

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Going on a vacation is exciting, but if you're a fish owner, you may be concerned about how to keep your finned friends alive and well while you're away. One option is to enlist the help of a trustworthy fish-sitter. A reliable fish-sitter can ensure that your fish are properly cared for and that their environment remains clean and healthy. Here are some tips for finding a trustworthy fish-sitter and preparing them for the task at hand.

• Choose someone with fish-keeping experience: Look for a fish-sitter who has experience caring for fish. They should be familiar with the basics of fish care, such as feeding, tank cleaning, and water testing. If possible, choose someone who has their own aquarium and regularly cares for fish.
• Ask for recommendations: Reach out to fellow fish owners, pet stores, or aquarium clubs to ask for recommendations. Someone who is known and trusted within the fish-keeping community is more likely to take the responsibility seriously.
• Have a trial run: Before you leave, have the potential fish-sitter visit your home and demonstrate their ability to care for the fish. Show them how to feed the fish, clean the tank, and maintain the water quality. This will give you both peace of mind and allow you to address any questions or concerns.
• Provide clear instructions: Write down detailed instructions on how to care for the fish. Include the feeding schedule, the amount and type of food to be given, and any specific instructions relevant to your fish's health or diet. Also, list any medications or water treatments your fish may need.
• Prepare the tank in advance: It's important to prepare the tank before you leave to make it as easy as possible for your fish-sitter. Clean the tank, perform a water change, and check the water parameters to ensure they are within the appropriate range. This will reduce the workload for your fish-sitter and help maintain a healthy environment for your fish.
• Provide backup supplies: Make sure your fish-sitter has everything they need to care for your fish. This includes extra fish food, a siphon or gravel vacuum for tank cleaning, a net, and any necessary water treatments or medications. It's better to have too much than not enough, so don't hesitate to provide extra supplies.
• Establish communication: Exchange contact information with your fish-sitter and let them know how often you would like to be updated on your fish's well-being. Schedule regular check-ins and ensure they know how to reach you in case of an emergency. This will give you peace of mind and enable you to provide guidance if needed.
• Show appreciation: After your trip, be sure to thank your fish-sitter for their help. Consider offering a small gesture of appreciation, such as a gift card or a small fish-related item. Showing your gratitude will make them more likely to help you again in the future.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your fish are in good hands while you're away. A reliable fish-sitter will not only keep your fish alive but also provide them with the care and attention they need. So enjoy your vacation and rest assured that your aquatic companions will receive top-notch care in your absence.

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The 21 Best Fish For Small Tanks (With Photos)

Thank you for visiting! By the way… any links on this page that lead to products on Amazon and other stores/partners are affiliate links Aquarium Store Depot earns a commission if you make a purchase.

Are you planning a new fish tank or just looking for a new small fish species to add to an existing community? Choosing new fish is super fun, but it can be tough to make the right choice.

There are hundreds of different species in the fishkeeping hobby, so save yourself the stress and scroll through this list to help make your choice. All the fish mentioned in this guide can be kept in tanks of 15-20 gallons, and some can even live in aquariums as small as 5 gallons.

Ready? Let’s meet the 21 best small fish for freshwater aquariums!

Key Takeaways

• Small freshwater fish make fascinating pets, and a well-planned display tank can make a big impact in any space.
• Schooling fish are easily stressed if kept alone. They should be kept in groups of at least 5 or 6 of their own species.
• Small freshwater fish need good filtration and regular water changes to stay healthy. Tropical species should be kept in a temperature-controlled, heated tank.
• Choose peaceful species with similar temperature and water parameter preferences when starting a community tank. Each fish should be comfortable in its new home.

The 21 Best Fish For Small Tanks

It’s time to learn about 21 excellent freshwater fish for small tanks! Take note of their minimum tank size, diet requirements, and other important stats before choosing your next pet. We have a video below from our YouTube Channel, so you can watch along while seeing more details below from our blog!

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Betta Fish are one of the most beautiful varieties of freshwater fish available in the hobby. Easy to care for with plenty of varieties!

• Scientific Name: Betta splendens
• Adult Size: 2.5 inches
• Care Level: Beginner
• Temperament: Aggressive
• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
• Diet: Carnivore, feed good quality micro-pellets and live/frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp
• Origin: Thailand and other countries in Southeast Asia
• Temperature: 76-80 °F
• Swimming Level: Mid/upper layers

The betta or Siamese fighting fish is a great choice for any freshwater aquarium that holds 5 gallons or more. These popular freshwater fish can live more than three years with good care and their bright colors and fancy fins make them great centerpiece fish.

Bettas get along great with many different tank mates in community setups, just don’t make the mistake of keeping more than one male in the same tank. These guys love to fight!

2. Exclamation Point Rasbora

One of the smallest fish available in the hobby. Best in schools and easy to care for

• Scientific Name: Boraras urophthalmoides
• Adult Size: 0.5 inches
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Peaceful and shy
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
• Diet: Carnivore, feed crushed flake fish food, baby brine shrimp and blood worms
• Origin: Thailand
• Temperature: 68 – 82°F
• Swimming Level: Middle layers

The exclamation point rasbora is an awesome little freshwater nano fish with an orange body and a black exclamation (!) symbol on each side.

These tiny fish are pretty shy (probably because they’re so small) so they need the company of at least 10 of their own kind to form a nice school. Keep these peaceful fish in a densely planted tank to enjoy all they have to offer.

3. Chili Rasbora

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A great nano schooling fish. Males display brighter colors. Best in groups of 6 or more

• Scientific Name: Boraras brigittae
• Adult Size: 0.75 inches
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore, feed granules and live/frozen foods
• Origin: Southeast Asia
• Swimming Level: Middle and upper layers

Also known as the mosquito rasbora , these peaceful schooling fish are similar to the exclamation point rasbora but have a redder body color. These are true micro fish that are perfect for small tanks.

While it is possible to keep a small school in a 5-gallon tank, they’ll do much better in a 10 gallon tank with plenty of live aquarium plants.

4. Zebra Danio

• Scientific Name: Danio/Brachydanio rerio
• Adult Size: 2 inches
• Temperament: Very peaceful
• Diet: Carnivore, feed good quality dried foods and bloodworms or other insect larvae
• Origin: South Asia
• Temperature: 66 – 77°F
• Swimming Level: Generally middle and upper layers

The zebra danio is a great beginner fish species for a small freshwater aquarium. There are many other beautiful danio species (celestial pearl, glowlight, etc.) in the hobby, but the good ol’ zebra fish tends to be the cheapest and most adaptable species.

These small fish are very peaceful and hardy, making them a great small aquarium fish species for a community tank. The minimum tank size for these fish is about 10 gallons, but they’ll be much happier in a 20-gallon tank where there’s plenty of space to swim.

5. Black Neon Tetra

A variant neon variety. More reliant than neon and cardinal tetras

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi
• Adult Size: 1.5 inches
• Minimum Tank Size: 15 gallons
• Diet: Omnivore, feed a quality pellet/flake and live/frozen food
• Origin: South America
• Temperature: 70 – 82°F

The black neon tetra doesn’t get quite as much love as the regular neons and cardinal tetras , but black neons are actually the better choice for many aquarists because they are so easy to care for. A school of 5 or 6 of these beautiful fish will add constant motion to the open-water areas of a small tropical fish tank.

These guys are pretty hardy, and much more likely to survive some of the common beginner fishkeeping mistakes. They look great too, and they get along perfectly with other peaceful fish.

6. Cory Catfish

• Scientific Name: Corydoras spp.
• Adult Size: 1-3 inches
• Care Level: Beginner/intermediate
• Minimum Tank Size: Species-dependent
• Diet: Omnivorous, feed sinking tablets/pellets and frozen foods
• Temperature: Species-dependent, most types can be kept in the mid-70s Fahrenheit
• Swimming Level: Bottom dweller

Looking for an interesting bottom dweller for a small community tank? Look no further than the cories, a large group of schooling catfish from South America. These fascinating freshwater fish spend most of their time searching the substrate for food scraps, but every now and then they rocket up to the surface for a gulp of air.

The smallest species (dwarf, pygmy corydoras, etc.) grow to less than an inch and can be kept in a ten-gallon tank, but most species will need an aquarium size of 20 gallons or more.

7. White Cloud Mountain Minnow

A very peaceful fish that does well in coldwater fish. Other minnow varieties are also available

• Scientific Name: Tanichthys albonubes
• Care Level: Easy
• Diet: Carnivore, feed high-quality dried foods supplemented with frozen blood worms/ brine shrimp
• Origin: China
• Temperature: 60-72°F

The white cloud mountain minnow is a coldwater fish , even though it offers all the bright colors of a tropical fish species.

These peaceful fish will thrive in an unheated aquarium in most homes, although they can be kept with some tropical fish that enjoy water in the low 70’s. The white cloud mountain minnow is a social fish, so you’ll need a school of at least six to keep them confident.

8. Cherry Barb

A popular freshwater fish from the barb family. One of the most peaceful barb fish

• Scientific Name: Puntius titteya
• Adult Size: 1.5 – 2 inches
• Diet: Omnivore, feed quality fish flakes or micro pellets and live/frozen food
• Origin: Sri Lanka
• Temperature: 70 – 79°F
• Swimming Level: Middle to lower levels

The cherry barb is a beautiful freshwater schooling fish from South Asia with attractive scales and rounded fins. Males develop a beautiful cherry-red color, but the females also have a rich amber/orange shade.

Cherry barbs are great community fish that add life to the lower levels of the aquarium. They get along great with other peaceful fish but will do best in a larger tank (20 gallons+) if they need to share their space with other species. A school of 6 or more is recommended to see them at their best.

9. Endler’s Livebearers

A very active and colorful livebearer. Smaller in size than guppies

• Scientific Name: Poecilia wingei
• Adult Size: 1 – 2 inches, males reach just one inch
• Diet: Omnivore, provide a quality flake or micro-pellet and occasional frozen/live foods
• Origin: Venezuela
• Temperature: 64 – 82°F
• Swimming Level: All levels but mostly in the upper half

The Endler’s livebearer is a colorful little fish that looks similar to a regular fancy guppy. However, this closely related fish is a smaller species and purebred specimens are much rarer. Ideally, Endlers should not be kept in the same tank as guppies because the two will readily hybridize.

Endlers are confident, active little fish that are very easy to care for. These fish breed easily, so you can expect to see some babies (fry) if you keep males and females together. They’re very peaceful too, so you can keep them with other nano community fish .

10. Honey Gourami

One of the more peaceful Gourami fish available in the hobby. Has a unique yellow coloration and only grows up to 2 inches in length

• Scientific Name: Trichogaster chuna
• Adult Size: up to 2 inches
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons for a single fish, 20 gallons for a pair
• Diet: Carnivore, feed a quality micro-pellet or flake, and occasional live/frozen foods
• Origin: India and Bangladesh
• Temperature: 74-80°F

The honey gourami is a small, peaceful fish species that can be kept as a single centerpiece fish or as a pair in a small community fish tank.

The males develop their brightest colors before the breeding season, but these peaceful nano fish are attractive and interesting at any time of the year.

11. Ember Tetra

A small red tetra that grows up to 1.25 inches. A very peaceful schooling fish

• Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon amandae
• Diet: Carnivore, feed micro-pellets/ flakes and live/frozen foods
• Origin: Brazil
• Temperature: 72-80°F
• Swimming Level: Middle levels

The ember tetra is a nano schooling fish with a deep orange color. These tiny tetras grow to three-quarters of an inch or so, making them a good choice for tanks as small as 5 gallons. However, they will be much better off in a tank of over 10 gallons, especially in a school of 10 or more.

Ember tetras are an option for a small community tank, although they should not be kept with large or aggressive fish due to their small size.

12. Guppies

An undemanding fish that is a livebearer. Many varieties available

• Scientific Name: Poecilia reticulata
• Adult Size: 0.75 – 2.5 inches
• Diet: Omnivorous, feed high-quality dried and live/frozen foods
• Origin: Northern South America and the Caribbean
• Temperature: 72-82°F
• Swimming Level: All levels

Fancy guppies are excellent nano fish for smaller fish tanks, especially if you have naturally hard water. These colorful livebearers are very easy to keep and super easy to breed in a home aquarium.

Guppies come in a variety of colors, and some high-quality strains are very rare and valuable. However, you can usually find some beautiful fancy guppies at your local fish store for a very reasonable price. You can keep only males or groups with three females to one male.

13. Japanese Rice Fish

Japanese rice fish are a commonly overlooked fish suitable for freshwater aquascapes. Very peaceful and hardy fish that color up with companions

• Scientific Name: Oryzias latipes
• Adult Size: 1.2 inches
• Diet: Omnivore, feed a quality flake food and supplemental live/frozen foods
• Origin: Eastern Asia
• Temperature: 61 – 75°F
• Swimming Level: Middle and upper levels

The Medaka, or Japanese rice fish is becoming increasingly popular in the aquarium trade. They are available in a variety of colors, ranging from white to orange.

These nano fish prefer cool water, making them a great choice for an unheated tank. They can be kept with other peaceful fish like white cloud minnows, just avoid tropical species that need warm water temperatures.

14. Rainbow Shiner

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• Scientific Name: Notropis chrosomus
• Adult Size: 2-3 inches
• Diet: Omnivore, provide a good quality dried food and frozen/live foods as treats
• Origin: Southeastern USA
• Temperature: 50 – 72°F

The rainbow shiner is an awesome native fish species that hails from the United States. They are a pretty new fish species in the fish keeping hobby and difficult to find at most fish stores, but you can often pick them up online. Choose this species as the centerpiece for a cool water stream biotope tank.

In spawning colors, these guys are some of the best-looking fish out there, although not all specimens develop amazing colors, and females are not particularly colorful. Keep a school of at least 6 of these fish in a small cool water tank with good water flow.

15. Spotted Blue-Eye Rainbowfish

• Scientific Name: Pseudomugil gertrudae
• Adult Size: 1-1.5 inches
• Temperament: Peaceful but shy
• Diet: Omnivore, feed crushed dried foods and small live/frozen foods
• Origin: Indonesia and Northern Australia
• Swimming Level: Generally in the top and middle levels

The spotted blue-eye rainbowfish is an interesting nano species that thrives in small planted aquariums. Both sexes are very attractive, although only the males develop large and interesting anal and dorsal fins.

Spotted blue-eye rainbowfish can be pretty shy around other fish, so they’re best kept in their own planted tank. It is possible to keep this species with adult shrimp, but there’s always some risk when keeping fish and inverts together. Keep a shoal of 8 or more of these fish to see their confident natural behaviors.

16. Green Fire Tetra

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matt (@findtheapex)

• Scientific Name: Aphyocharax rathbuni
• Adult Size: 1.5-1.75 inches
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive
• Diet: Feed good quality dried foods and live/frozen foods
• Origin: Brazil, Uraguay, Argentina, Paraguay
• Swimming Level: Midwater levels

The green fire tetra is an active little South American tetra that will add color and movement to any nano tank. You might find them for sale as Rathbun’s tetra or the redflank bloodfin, but they are all the same awesome nano species.

Unfortunately, green fire tetras have a reputation for fin nipping, so it’s safest to keep them with fast-moving fish that can hold their own, and avoid any species with long, flowing fins.

17. Clown Killifish

A colorful nano killifish. Best in low flow tanks

• Scientific Name: Epiplatys annulatus
• Adult Size: 1.25 inches
• Diet: Carnivore, feed dried food for nano fish and live/frozen foods
• Origin: West Africa
• Temperature: 68 – 78°F
• Swimming Level: Upper levels

Also known as the banded panchax, these tiny surface dwellers are a great choice for a nano tank full of healthy green plants that mimic their natural forest habitat.

The clown killifish can be kept with other nano fish but will be most comfortable if you keep a school of at least 8 specimens.

18. Scarlet Badis

A great colorful nano fish. They are known for being semi-aggressive. Best if keep solo or in pairs

• Scientific Name: Dario dario
• Adult Size: 0.5 – 0.75 inches
• Diet: Omnivore
• Origin: India
• Temperature: 70- 79°F
• Swimming Level: Bottom

The scarlet badis is a tiny fish species from India that looks similar to a dwarf cichlid. These colorful little fish can be kept in tanks as small as 5 gallons, although maintaining great water quality is much easier in a larger setup.

The scarlet badis is a great choice for fish keepers with a few years of experience. They can be a little fussy around meal times, so you’ll probably need a supply of live or frozen foods to keep them well-fed.

These fish should not be kept with larger, more aggressive species, although they will thrive in a planted tank with other smaller fish like celestial pearl danios (AKA Galaxy Rasbora).

19. Licorice Gourami

• Scientific Name: Parosphromenus deissneri
• Temperament: Can be somewhat aggressive
• Diet: Carnivore, feed live foods like bloodworm and tubifex worm
• Origin: Indonesia
• Temperature: 72 – 82°F

The licorice gourami is a fascinating nano fish species for more experienced fish keepers. These fish do well in tanks as small as 5 gallons, but they require soft, acidic water and gentle filtration to simulate their natural habitat.

Licorice gouramis are often kept as a single centerpiece fish due to their slightly aggressive nature, although you can keep them with other small, peaceful fish in a tank with plenty of cover and live plants.

20. Otocinclus Catfish

A small algae-eating fish. Also great with freshwater shrimp.

• Scientific Name: Otocinclus spp.
• Care Level: Moderate
• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
• Diet: Algae eater. Can be fed soft greens and algae wafers but requires a source of natural algae
• Temperature: 70 – 77°F
• Swimming Level: Feeds on hardscape, glass, and plants at all levels

The otocinclus catfish is one of my favorite nano fish and one of the most useful clean-up crew species in the hobby. However, these little guys have some special requirements, and they rarely survive in a new tank without a steady supply of algae.

Despite their small size, these algae eaters do best in mature tanks of 20 gallons or more that can provide enough natural food to sustain a school of 6 or more. Otos are very peaceful fish that are safe to keep with dwarf shrimp and fish fry.

21. Pea Puffer

At only an inch in length, this is the smallest pufferfish you can purchase in the aquarium hobby

• Scientific Name: Carinotetraodon travancoricus
• Adult Size: 1 inch
• Diet: Carnivore, feed live snails, and live/frozen brine shrimp

The pea puffer is an adorable little nano fish with a real mean streak! They are a true freshwater species that can be kept in tanks as small as 5 gallons, although 15 gallons or more would be much better for long-term care.

These fish are not ideal for beginners because they prefer a heavily planted tank to feel comfortable in their environment, and they have a pretty specialized diet. A steady supply of live snails is the best food source to keep their sharp teeth worn down, but they will also take frozen bloodworms as an occasional treat.

Other Species To Consider

Fish are not the only things you can keep in a small fish tank. Read on to learn about three other options!

1. Dwarf Shrimp

Freshwater aquarium shrimp are a great addition to small tanks and aquascapes. Peaceful, full of personality, and colorful. Many varieties are available.

Keeping freshwater shrimp is a fascinating alternative to small fish species. Sometimes, you can also add these adorable crustaceans to an existing freshwater aquarium, although most popular aquarium fish will try to eat them.

Otocinclus catfish are one of the only fish that won’t eat baby shrimp, although you may get away with keeping large adult shrimp with small nano fish like celestial pearl danios.

Generally, it’s best to keep freshwater shrimp in their own tank of 10 gallons or larger, although some aquarists have success in tanks as small as 2 gallons. Unfortunately, maintaining safe water parameters is very difficult in this volume of water.

Different shrimp species have different care requirements, but all species will do best in a temperature-controlled and filtered aquarium with good-quality shrimp food and regular maintenance.

Horned Nerite Snails are excellent algae eaters for planted tanks.

Snails have really gotten a bad name in the aquarium hobby, but the truth is that these fascinating freshwater invertebrates can be great cleanup crew and some species are really good-looking creatures!

Avoid adding snails like ramshorns and pond snails to your tank if you prefer species that won’t multiply, although these ‘pest’ species tend to limit themselves in well-maintained tanks.

Nerite snails and mystery snails are better choices because they do not breed and actually make pretty interesting display animals.

Want to learn more? Check out my comprehensive aquarium snail guides for much more information on these fascinating creatures!

3. Small Hardy Plants

Have you considered growing live plants in your aquarium? Heads up, the planted tank hobby can be addictive!

There are loads of different aquatic plant species that thrive in small tanks. Many will survive without any special care, but it’s important to select low-tech species if you’re just starting out.

Epiphytes like Java Ferns and Anubias nana petit are great choices because you can grow them right in their pot without any special lighting. However, a much better way to grow these hardy plants is to attach them to a rock or a piece of driftwood using superglue or thread.

Java Fern is one of the easiest and hardiest live plants you can purchase

Want to learn more about growing live plants? Browse through my extensive collection of detailed guides to get started!

What is a Small Aquarium?

Aquariums in the range of 5 to 20 gallons are generally classified as small tanks. These tanks are ideal for bedrooms, offices, and busy fish rooms. You’ll also see tanks as small as 1 gallon for sale, but avoid these if you’re planning on keeping fish. Anything smaller than about 5 gallons can be very difficult to maintain.

Stocking Your Tank

Test your source water before stocking your tank. Some fish prefer naturally hard water, while others prefer soft and acidic conditions. If your tap water is hard, you may want to choose small livebearers like guppies that thrive in harder water.

Personality is also vital when choosing small fish for your tank. Avoid mixing small, shy species with more aggressive fish like tiger barbs if you want a peaceful community setup.

Many beginners try to cram as many fish into their tanks as possible, but more fish means more maintenance, and it’s easy to let your water quality slide to dangerous levels in a nano fish tank. Stock your tank lightly for a trouble-free experience.

Essential Equipment Checklist

Apart from the Japanese ricefish and the white cloud minnow, each of the species in this list will need warm water temperatures to simulate the tropical climate of their natural habitat. Choose a heater model and wattage that fits your tank size.

All fish need filtered water when kept in small aquariums. Choose a small sponge filter , HOB, or internal power filter that can process your aquarium water volume 4-6 times each hour.

Your fish will enjoy a natural day/night cycle to maintain their biological clock. Run your lights for 6-8 hours each day to avoid excess algae growth.

Other Important Supplies

• Water test kit
• Gravel vacuum
• Thermometer
• Decorations, hardscape, and Substrate
• Quality food

What is the best fish for a small tank?

Betta fish (AKA Siamese fighting fish) are one of the best fish for small tanks. These stunning creatures are available in many different colors and fin patterns, and their spunky attitude makes them wonderful pets. A single betta fish is a great choice for an aquarium that holds 5 gallons or more. Don’t forget to add a small heater and filter to keep your fish healthy and happy!

What fish go well together in a small tank?

It’s best to start with a ten-gallon or larger aquarium if you want more than one fish in a small tank. Small schooling or shoaling fish like white cloud mountain minnows, ember tetras, or fancy guppies do well in tanks of this size. You can look at mixing species in a tank of 15 gallons or more, but then it’s very important to choose peaceful community fish that enjoy the same water parameters.

What fish do well in a 1-gallon tank?

Unfortunately, there are no small freshwater fish species that can be kept in a 1-gallon aquarium. Maintaining safe water quality in a very small tank is extremely challenging, and there just isn’t enough swimming space, even for betta fish. You could consider growing some small live plants in a tank of that size, and maybe even add one or two small snails to add some life.

Are fish okay in small tanks?

Many beautiful freshwater fish species can be kept in small tanks, although the number of fish you can keep will vary depending on tank size, filtration, and fish behavior. All freshwater aquarium fish (including betta fish) need good filtration and regular maintenance to stay healthy. Testing water quality and performing regular water changes are particularly important when keeping nano fish in small aquariums.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need a big tank or a big budget to enjoy the fishkeeping hobby. In fact, all of the small fish species discussed in this article will be right at home in a desktop tank!

That being said, 5 gallons is the smallest size you should consider for any freshwater fish, and 15 gallons (with a good filter) is probably the ideal size for your first nano tank. Lastly, little fish can have BIG personalities, so make sure all your fish species match up in terms of personality and temperament.

Do you keep small aquarium fish? Share your favorite species in the comments below!

• About the Author
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I’m thrilled that you found Aquarium Store Depot! Here you’ll find information on fish, aquariums, and all things aquatics related. I’m a hobbyist (being doing this since I was 11) and here to help other hobbyists thrive with their aquariums! I adhere to a high quality Editorial Process and Review products with real life field usage and practical analysis.

Can Mollies Live With Bettas (It Depends...)

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Small Fishing Lures

Sharp fishing tackle that may be considered dangerous, such as large fish hooks, should be sheathed, securely wrapped, and packed in your checked luggage. Like other high-value objects, you may wish to pack expensive reels or fragile tackle that does not pose a security threat (small flies) in your carry-on baggage.

Best Travel Fishing Rods for 2024

Jason sealock.

• Oct 09, 2023

Choosing a travel rod for anglers who like to pack light and carry a fishing rod in their luggage on every where they travel requires a little planning and view of the options and fish you think you might encounter on your travels. We reviewed a wide gamut of rods and came up with a lot of options to consider as well as some great recommendations for which fishing rods we would suggest for a lot of different types of fishing and travel.

Things like size of the rod when disassembled, number of pieces, rod case, roll or bag, type of rod, how you will transport it, whether a telescoping rod makes sense and more need to be considered before choosing the best travel rod for your fishing plans.  

Travel rods can come from 2 pieces up to 5 pieces not to mention the telescoping travel rod options out there. You might want to fit the rod in a suitcase, if so more pieces will break down into a smaller foot print. Or you might carry it with you which might give you more options for rods. You might want a hard case to protect the rod if you’re worried about TSA or some other party damaging your rods in transit. Or a rod wrap may suffice if it’s tucked inside of another hard case suitcase.

OUR TOP PICKS

• Best telescoping travel combo – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Best travel rod for bass – Buy from FishUSA
• Runner up: Daiwa ardito travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best all-around / saltwater travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Best telescopic travel rod – Buy from Basspro
• Runner up: Ugly stik cx2 4-piece travel combo – Buy from Basspro
• Ark rods genesis rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• Zebco 33 spincast telescopic combo – Buy from Basspro
• Shimano Convergence D Travel 4-Piece Spinning Rods – Buy from Tacklewarehouse
• St. croix triumph travel rod – Buy from Tacklewarehouse

Know Your Travel Rods

Then there are the types of rod to consider including spinning travel rods, casting travel rods, telescoping travel rods as well as travel fly rods or specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or travel trout or panfish rods. Or any combination of the aforementioned.  

If you plan to fish with light lures and light line, then a spinning travel rod might be the best option. If you plan to look for big bluegills or crappies specifically on your travels, then a long telescoping rod might make more sense or a small spinning rod like a trout rod might give you a lot of options for trout and panfish.

If you’re going for larger quarry, you will want a beefier rod that has a reel that can hold heavier line. Usually a baitcasting travel rod makes sense for bass, or big fish like walleye, pike, musky, stripers, etc.  

Specialty rods like travel swimbait rods or extra long jigging rods might be just the ticket for probing unknown waters for specific types of fishing like jigging brush for crappie or casting oversized swimbaits for trophy bass and stripers.  

Of course if you’re in to fly fishing, then a travel fly rod is hard to beat. There are some super high end and middle of the road options that are great rods that make a 9-foot fly rod fit into an over night travel bag with the travel fly rod option.

CONSIDER TELESCOPING RODS FOR TRAVEL

For some, a telescoping rod is an easy spur of the moment travel rod option to probe some nearby waters to see if they have fish available. I have buddies that keep telescoping rods in their trucks at all times and will break it out on their travels or while taking a lunch or after work on a work trip. It’s a quick and simple option.

Most of time telescoping rods are a bit lower quality. Or at least that was the case back when the only option was a low end push button spin cast combo for small panfish. There are, however, some newer options bringing this back as a real viable option for bass and panfish.

A Travel Combo Might Make More Sense

You can buy travel rods that are a rod and reel combo. This is often the case with telescoping options. But there are some better quality options in the multi-piece travel rods with a decent spinning reel. Most of the time. I want the best rod I can get and a good reel in my bag so I’m not fighting my equipment in the limited amount of time I get to fish on my travels. Especially those spur-of-the-moment unplanned fishing trips while traveling.  

But when you get to a location and wished you had a rod and reel, a decent priced telescoping rod/reel combo can get you in the fish on an unexpected hot spot quickly and easily.

You Need a Travel Rod Case, Bag or Roll

Anymore your travel rod is going to come in a hard case, a roll or a bag. Regardless you need to take care to protect the pieces of the rod or the rod while it is compartmentalized so it’s not damaged in your travels.  

A hard case might be a cloth case with a hard shell inside of it that zips closed on the end and the multiple pieces slide into little sleeves inside of it. Or it might be a hard outer shell with a soft interior that keeps your guides and blank parts protected. These are nice when you plan to carry your travel rods separate from your luggage. Or keep them in a vehicle on your travels.

A travel rod roll is just a cloth sleeve with individual pockets for each piece of the blank and then you roll it up with flap that closes on one end and tie it off with the attached ties. These can be nice for putting a rod or two into your other travel bags or a small compartment in your vehicle.

A travel bag can be just a cloth bag or a padded foam bag that houses and protects the rod simultaneously. I’m a fan of these as they keep your pieces from falling out as sometimes happens with rolls. And they keep the blank pieces with a bit of added protection. The padded bags are ideal in my opinion.  

Best Travel Rod Brands

In the freshwater space, the best travel rod makers are often synonymous with the best rod makers. Makers like Daiwa, Shimano, St. Croix, Megabass, Ark Rods, Fenwick, and others have really solid travel rod options. Others that many don’t know offer travel rods have good options like Favorite, Bass Pro, and BnM Poles.  

Here are the travel rod brands we reviewed and liked:

• Favorite Fishing
• B’n’M Poles

Having said all that, let’s take a closer look at some of our personal favorites in various travel rod categories.

Best Telescoping Travel Combo

Daiwa travel combo.

We chose the Daiwa Travel Combo as the best combo because it comes with a good reel, telescoping rod that is better than most and it’s own sling carry bag that is big enough to put several travel rods and reels in. This combo compacts down to 26 inches making it a perfect option for any trip whether it be in a car or a plane.

The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch Medium power fast action rod. It’s a solid rod and stayed extended as we fished with it. The reel is a 2-bearing Daiwa Crossfire LT 2500. Even though it’s only 2 bearings, it performed very smoothly and effortlessly with a very smooth drag. It’s a solid spinning combo and it’s offered in EVA or Cork grips.

The combo costs $149 but if you just want a good combo without messing around with pairing rods and reels, this is a quick easy choice.

Buy at TackleWarehouse

Best Travel Rod for Bass

Shimano zodias travel rod.

The fact that Shimano took one of their best rod lines and converted it into a high-end bass travel rod got me excited. And when I got the new rod in my hand, I was very impressed. I am a big fan of the original Zodias line and was so excited to see this level of quality in a 5-piece travel rod.  

This travel rod condenses down to 19 inches when packed, meaning you can literally take it anywhere. And when full assembled you have a very high quality rod full of all the features of the high end one-piece blanks. The 5-piece construction gives the rod more uniform bend than a 2-piece model would.  

It has so much power and a steady consistent load when casting. You will forget it’s a travel rod by your second cast. It’s a high end rod that just happens to be in 5 pieces. It has a CI4+ reel seat for lightweight strength and a full carbon monocoque grip which eliminates the use of EVA giving a light rod more sensitivity.

Hi-Power X construction which makes the blanks outermost layer wrapped with carbon tape form that X appearance on the blank that gives more precise actions to the rods with more strength.  

You can really lean into fish with this rod without worry. It’s one of the nicest travel rods we’ve tested.

Buy at FishUSA.com

Buy from Omnia

Runner Up: Daiwa Ardito Travel Rod

This is another high-end rod that has been brought down to a travel rod form factor. This rod comes with a very nice hard case and it breaks down to 30 inches (32 in its case). It features a V-flex ferrule joint system. These ferrules don’t require you to jam the rod pieces all the way together and then struggle to separate them. You simply push them until they snug together and you are all set. You can break down and put the rod together in seconds and be fishing as fast as you can thread your line.  

The rod has a high-modulus blank, Fuji Aluminum Oxide guides, unsanded micro-pitch blank, split Eva grip and machined nut hood. It’s a high quality rod that pairs nicely with your favorite bait caster. It comes in 7-foot medium, 7-foot medium heavy and 7-foot, 6-inch medium heavy.

Buy at BassPro.com

Best All-Around / Saltwater Travel Rod

St. croix avid trek rod.

This is a finely crafted American rod with incredible blanks offering uniform performance, strength and ultra-perceptive sensitivity. The premium cork full grip, and quality blanks featuring St. Croix’s IPC mandrels, SCII high modulus carbon, slim profile ART ferrules, Sea Guide Hero hi-grade guides with zirconia rings and stainless gun smoke frames, sea guide hook keeper, and a 15-year-transferable warranty.  

This rod can literally do it all. Going to Louisiana to fish the marshes for bass and redfish, this is your rod. Strong, light, smooth, sensitive and easy to pack. The 3-piece rod is 6-foot, 6-inch MH rod with a lot of power but great castability. This rod is a joy to fish with and you can expect it to last a long time with that kind of warranty.

Best Telescopic Travel Rod

Bass pro aventur1 telescoping rod.

I was pleasantly surprised by the Aventur1 telescoping rod. It features 6 sections but 8 guides for uniform castability and a nice line path while fighting fish. The unique guide system has floating guides as well as guides permanently affixed to the rod sections. So you won’t fight with line on the blank on this travel rod.  

The 7-foot medium power rod fished really well and I was pretty taken aback at how nice this rod fished for $59. A rod that will likely always be in my travel plans. With an RT2 graphite blank, Fuji aluminum oxide guides, Fuji reel seat, with EVA split grips and X-Wrap rubber cork butt cap, this is a pretty functional telescoping rod for travel fishing.

Best Big Swimbait Travel Rod

F5 departure travel rods.

The folks at F5 Custom Rods make some of the nicest big swimbait rods available today. These are custom made rods from blanks to handles to accents. They are often very selective in how they build rods and you usually have to get lucky enough to catch a rod on a drop. However, the F5 Departure Travel Rods are often in stock and I picked up a H and XH rod a year or so back.

These are two of my favorite big swimbait rods that I use for crankdowns like the Bull Shad 4×4 and the Toxic Whippersnappers, for glides like the 86 Baits Doomrider, KGB Swimbaits Chad Shad or the Deps Slide Swimmer 250 and of course for my jointed swims like the Bull Shad 8 inch.

The rods are both 3-piece rods and are custom made with a full extra long camo EVA handle. The ones the often sell are split grips. The rod blanks are solid. Even with three pieces I had no issues heaving big baits like the Slide Swimmer which weighs 6 1/2 ounces.

They are going to run you about $289 a piece for these rods. But I am so happy to have them because I can take a pack of my favorite big baits and a very high-end swimbait rod literally everywhere I go to chase trophies all over the country and out of the country for that matter.

Buy at F5 Custom Rods

Best Travel Rod on a Budget

Favorite fishing army geo rod.

This is an impressive rod not only for the price but for how well this 4-piece rod fishes and fights fish. We caught some really quality bass on this rod this spring and it is a legit fun spinning rod to fish. I love that I threw it in my suitcase, loaded up and went to Arkansas and broke it out and caught a bunch of nice bass that were moving shallow to spawn.  

Even my brother-in-law enjoyed fishing with this travel rod. And at $39, it’s a hard rod to pass up. The 4 pieces in their hard travel tube are 26 inches. The pieces are barely 23 inches. The rod is a 7-foot, 2-inch medium-heavy spinning rod. I used it to skip Senkos around shallow cover a lot this spring. And it sets a nice hook and has a ton of backbone to land big bass. Our biggest on it was 6 pounds, 4 ounces this spring.

Buy at FavoriteUSA.com

Runner up: Ugly Stik GX2 4-piece Travel Combo

At $44 at Walmart, you can’t go wrong with this nearly indestructible travel rod. The Ugly Stik has been the staple of affordable travel rods. They can take abuse and continue to catch and land fish.  

Buy from Walmart.com

Buy at Scheels

Best Trout Travel Rod

St. croix trout series pack rod  .

For the adventurer who needs a light and packable trout rod to get to remote locations, this is the Cadillac of adventure rods. This rod says trout, but it’s a dynamite bluegill, crappie and even smallmouth rod for remote streams and creeks. It’s a beautifully built rod at only 2.9 ounces and 3 pieces, it compacts down to be no added weight in your backpack.  

I paired it with a small 1000 spinning reel and 4-pound line and really enjoyed fishing this rod a lot. It will become one of my staple creek travel rods now. It throws little baits effortlessly and had a nice backbone for such a light rod. A real joy to fish with.

Buy from FishUSA.com

Best Panfish Telescoping Rod

Bnm poles little mighty telescoping rod  .

I have to admit, I’m a little blow away by this rod. I grew up crappie and bluegill fishing with my father in Florida and Arkansas with telescoping fiberglass rods from B’n’M Poles. So I have a lot of nostalgia when it comes to these types of rod. But the new Little Mighty Rod is something special.

While it’s not technically a travel rod, it’s a telescoping rod that reaches out to 20 feet and breaks down to barely 22 inches. It looks like a bright orange track baton but it extends to a masterful reach out and touch a crappie or bluegill telescoping rod quickly.

One word of caution, be sure you extend the rod small sections first. So grab the string tab on the tip and pull it out that way. Don’t slide the sections out by dumping the open end out or you will have issues with sections getting out of order and blocking each other. Same for breaking it down. Big sections first and be sure to leave the string out when you put the cap on.  

Other than that, I enjoyed testing this rod a lot. I honestly didn’t think much of it when I got it. But after using it I can think of all sorts of places I want to take and fish with this rod. Once you get the hang of maneuvering 20 feet of rod with a fish on the end it’s a pretty fun stick to fish with.

Buy at Walmart.com

Buy from BnmPoles.com

Other Travel Rod Considerations

Ark rods genesis rods.

This was my original travel rod and I’ve put a lot of miles on it. It’s caught fish in Nebraska, Arkansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. This is a two piece travel rod that comes with a nice padded bag.

Read our full Ark Genesis 2-piece travel rod review

The rod joins together nicely and fishes so well. The very narrow blanks are durable and sensitive. I’ve caught fish just about every way you can on these rods. I have the 6-foot, 8-inch MH and the 7-foot, 6-inch MH rods and have flipped, frogged, spinnerbait fished, jigged, cranked, popped a topwater popper and burned a buzz bait with these rods. A great option that gives no sacrifice in performance in a 2-piece travel rod.

SixGill Argos Travel Rods

A very nicely made travel pack rod, the Argos Travel Rod is a 4-piece rod built on a 24T Toray Carbon blank. Comes with a 25 inch travel case. It fishes like your nicest bass rod but you can tuck it under a jacket and take it with you anywhere. The rod loads nicely on the cast and has enough back bone with it’s 7-foot MH frame to fight any size bass you might tangle with. A very nice travel rod option.  

Buy from Sixgillfishing.com

Zebco 33 Spincast Telescopic Combo

This is an affordable option at $25 but it’s not made to handle big fish in my opinion. It’s a great rod for catching panfish around a campsite, or of the dock on vacation. But it’s not made for fishing for larger fish. The rod bends easily at the tip under load and the line cuts across the rod to the next guide. So just be cautious with bigger fish on this setup. But for $25, you can catch the heck out of a bunch of panfish with this setup.

Buy at Amazon

Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod

I haven’t had a chance to review the latest offerings from Hardy yet, but one of my all time favorite travel rods is my Hardy Zephrus FWS Travel Fly Rod. It’s a 9-foot, 5-weight rod. It is the perfect pack rod for hiking into remote streams and chasing fish on the fly. This is the Ferrari of travel rods in my opinion. Everything is first class from the aluminum case, styled bag, ferrule covers, and beautiful craftsmanship on the Sintrix 440 blank.  

Buy from Hardyrodsandreels.com

Shimano Convergence Travel Rod

This 7-foot, 4-piece rod is another great do-it all travel rod. It’s a great rod for a lot of different species and lures in that 1/4 ounce to 3/4 ounce size. It breaks down to 25 inches so it will fit in almost all your bags and it comes in a nice hard case with a shoulder strap if you want to carry it on your back while you hike. It’s very well made and fished nicely with a variety of reels.

Spinning rod

Casting rod.

Buy at Tackle Warehouse

St. Croix Triumph Travel Rod

This work-horse travel rod serves a ton of different purposes. It’s 6-foot, 6-inch size makes it a great size for tight quarters. I loved fishing some small streams near the house with this rod. A fun little rod for wading creeks or winging around on bigger waters on your travels. It’s small form factor of 24 inches makes it a great pack rod to keep in your vehicle or throw in your bag on long trips. It’s a very nice blank divided into 4 pieces. It’s strong, sensitive and light. A great travel version of their very popular Triumph line.  

Wired2fish Travel Rod Comparison Chart

We review a ton of products and while they don’t always make the best of categories there are a lot of good rods to choose from that can get the job done. We try to give you as many options as possible while identifying some that we think stand out in the array of options. The goal with our guides is to help you be as informed and aggregate as much helpful information and personal experience into helping you with your fishing gear decisions.  

Here is a quick rundown of a lot of travel rod / telescoping rod options:

Currently working as Senior Advisor to Wired2fish. Former COO and Publisher, Jason Sealock came to Wired2fish shortly after inception in January of 2010. Prior to that he was the Editor-in-Chief of FLW Outdoors Magazines. He worked up from Associate Editor to Photo Editor and finally Editor in Chief of three magazines FLW Bass, FLW Walleye and FLW Saltwater. He set the content direction for Wired2fish while also working directly with programmers, consultants and industry partners. Sealock has been an avid angler for the better part of 40 years and has been writing and shooting fishing and outdoors content for more than 25 years. He is an expert with fishing electronics and technologies and an accomplished angler, photographer, writer and editor. He has taught a lot of people to find fish with their electronics and has been instrumental in teaching these technologies to the masses. He's also the industry authority on new fishing tackle and has personally reviewed more than 10,000 products in his tenure. He has a 30-year background in information technologies and was a certified engineer for a time in Microsoft, Novell, Cisco, and HP. He mostly fishes for bass and panfish around the house. He has, however, caught fish in 42 of the 50 states in the US as well as Costa Rica, Mexico, and Canada and hopes to soon add Finland, Japan, Africa and Australia to his list.

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27 Fish that Migrate (A to Z List with Pictures)

Examples of fish that migrate include alewives, American paddlefish, Atlantic cod, Atlantic salmon, and beluga sturgeon.

Migrating fish swim thousands of miles in search of food, spawning grounds, and better living conditions due to seasonal changes. Some species, like salmon, even travel upriver to lay their eggs.

Let’s take a look at some examples of fish that migrate and why they do it.

Examples of Fish that Migrate

1. alewives.

These small, silvery fish migrate in large schools in late spring from the ocean into estuaries and rivers to spawn.

Related Article: 13 Fish that Look Like Dragons

2. American Paddlefish

The American paddlefish is a freshwater fish that is native to North America. It can grow to be over six feet long and weigh over 200 pounds. The American paddlefish migrates in search of food. plankton, which it feeds on, is more abundant in certain areas at different times of the year.

3. Atlantic Cod

The Atlantic cod is a migratory fish that swims in the ocean waters off the coast of North America. Every year, they migrate south to escape the cold weather and find better feeding grounds. In the spring, they return to their northern homes to spawn.

4. Atlantic Salmon

Atlantic salmon are born in freshwater rivers, but they spend most of their lives in the ocean. Around the time they reach sexual maturity, typically after 3-5 years, they return to their natal river to spawn. After spawning, they die.

The journey back to their natal river can be thousands of miles long and is fraught with danger, including predators, parasites, and disease. But the urge to reproduce is strong, and salmon will risk everything to make it back to their birthplace to lay their eggs.

5. Beluga Sturgeon

The Beluga Sturgeon is a large, white fish that can grow up to 20 feet long and weigh over 2,000 pounds. They are found in the cold waters of the Arctic Ocean and migrate to the warmer waters of the Caspian Sea to spawn.

6. Black Sea Salmon

The Black Sea salmon is a species of migratory fish that is found in the Black Sea and the adjacent rivers. Salmon migrate in order to breed and lay their eggs in freshwater rivers. After hatching, the young salmon spend several months in freshwater before migrating to the sea where they spend the majority of their lives.

7. Blue Cod

Found in the waters around New Zealand, blue cod migrate in search of food. Their diet consists mainly of small invertebrates, so they move to areas where these creatures are abundant.

8. Chinook Salmon

The Chinook salmon is the largest species of Pacific salmon. They can grow up to four feet long and weigh over 60 pounds. Every year, Chinook salmon migrate from the ocean upriver to lay their eggs in freshwater streams. After hatching, the young salmon spend a few years in freshwater before migrating back to the ocean to live out the rest of their lives. The Chinook salmon’s annual migration can be over 3,000 km long.

9. Chum Salmon

Chum salmon are found in the northern Pacific Ocean and migrate to spawn in rivers in Alaska, British Columbia, and Washington. Every fall, chum salmon leave the ocean and swim upriver to lay their eggs in freshwater gravel beds.

10. Coho Salmon

Every fall, coho salmon migrate from the Pacific Ocean back to their freshwater birthplace to spawn. The journey can be over 1,000 miles long and requires them to swim upstream through rivers and creeks.

11. European Eel

The European eel is a long, snake-like fish that can be found in rivers and lakes all across Europe. Every year, millions of eels migrate from their homes in freshwater to the Atlantic Ocean to mate and lay eggs.

12. European Sea Sturgeon

These fish can grow up to 20 feet long and live in the Atlantic Ocean. Every spring, they migrate from the Mediterranean Sea into the Black Sea to spawn.

13. Green Sturgeon

The green sturgeon is a large fish that can live up to 60 years. It is found in the Pacific Ocean from Alaska to central California. Every year, adult green sturgeons migrate upstream to spawn in rivers. After spawning, they return to the ocean.

14. Hawaiian Freshwater Goby

The Hawaiian freshwater goby is a small fish that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It is found in streams and rivers on all of the main islands, except for Kahoʻolawe.

These fish migrate in search of food and better living conditions. During the wet season, the gobies move to higher elevations in search of food. As the water level lowers in the dry season, the fish move to lower elevations where there is more water.

15. Herring

Herring migrate in large schools, sometimes consisting of millions of fish. They travel to find food or to escape predators. Herring have a special sense called lateral line which allows them to sense movement in the water around them. This sense helps them stay together in large groups while they are migrating.

16. Lake Sturgeon

These giant freshwater fish can grow up to 7 feet long and live for over 100 years! They are bottom-feeders and eat things like insects, crayfish, and small fish.

Every spring, sturgeon migrate upstream to lay their eggs in rivers and streams. After spawning, they head back downstream to the lakes where they spend the rest of the year.

17. Mekong Giant Catfish

The Mekong giant catfish lives in the Mekong River in Southeast Asia. It can grow to be over 10 feet long and weigh up to 660 pounds. The fish is endangered and is only found in this one river.

During the dry season, the water level in the Mekong River drops significantly. This forces the fish to migrate to deeper waters in order to find food and avoid being stranded on land.

18. North American Eel

Eels are a type of fish that spend most of their lives in freshwater rivers and lakes, but they must return to the ocean to spawn.

Some eels travel as far as 3,700 miles from North America to the Sargasso Sea in order to mate and lay their eggs.

19. Red Tuna

Red tuna migrate to different areas in search of food. As the water temperatures change, so does the location of their prey. In order to follow their food source, red tuna must migrate to where the food is plentiful.

20. Russian Sturgeon

The Russian sturgeon is a species of fish that is found in the Black and Caspian seas. They can grow to be up to six feet long and weigh over 200 pounds. These fish migrate in order to spawn. They travel from the Black sea into the River Danube where they lay their eggs.

These fish travel up the Chesapeake Bay to spawn in the spring. They follow the same path every year, moving from the Atlantic Ocean into freshwater rivers and streams.

22. Shortnose Sturgeon

The shortnose sturgeon is a threatened species of fish that can be found in the eastern United States. Every year, they migrate up the Hudson River to spawn in the spring. They travel back down the river in the fall.

23. Siberian Sturgeon

The Siberian sturgeon is a type of fish that is found in the rivers and lakes of Siberia. Every year, these fish migrate upstream to lay their eggs in the shallow waters near the shore. The journey can be as long as 1,000 miles.

One reason why the Siberian sturgeon migrate is to avoid the cold winters in Siberia. The water temperatures in the rivers and lakes can drop to below freezing, and the sturgeon need to migrate to warmer waters to survive.

24. Sockeye Salmon

Sockeye salmon are anadromous fish, meaning they live in the ocean but return to freshwater to spawn. Every year, sockeye salmon migrate from the ocean back to their natal streams in Alaska and British Columbia. The journey can be over 2,000 miles long and is one of the longest migrations of any vertebrate animal.

25. Steelhead Trout

Steelhead trout are a type of salmon that is found in the Pacific Ocean. Every year, they migrate upriver to lay their eggs. The journey can be up to 3,000 miles long.

Steelhead trout migrate in order to find the best possible spawning grounds. Since they lay their eggs in rivers, they need to find stretches of river that are clean and have a good water supply. They also need to find areas where there are lots of other steelhead trout so that their eggs will have a good chance of surviving.

26. White Sturgeon

The white sturgeon is a freshwater fish that can grow to be up to 20 feet long and weigh over 1,000 pounds. They are found in rivers and lakes all across North America, from Alaska all the way down to California.

Every year, between late fall and early winter, the white sturgeon migrate upstream to spawn in the shallower waters of rivers and streams. After spawning, they return back downstream to the deeper waters where they spend the rest of the year.

27. White Tuna

White tuna are found in all oceans, but they migrate to different areas at different times of year. In the spring and summer, they move to cooler waters near the poles. In the fall and winter, they move to warmer waters near the equator. They do this to follow their food source – small fish that are also migrating.

There are many different types of fish that migrate. Some migrate to breed, some to find food, and others to escape predators. Migration can be a difficult journey, and many fish don’t survive the trip. But for those that do, migration provides an important way to keep populations healthy and ensure the continuation of their species.

Hi, I’m Garreth. Living in South Africa I’ve had the pleasure of seeing most of these animals up close and personal. When I was younger I always wanted to be a game ranger but unfortunately, life happens and now at least I get to write about them and tell you my experiences.

12 Smallest Tetras for Aquariums

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In this article, I’ll introduce you to the smallest tetras for aquariums, perfect for adding a splash of color and life to your fish tank. Join me as we dive into the world of these tiny, mesmerizing creatures.

Ember Tetra

Ember Tetra ( Hyphessobrycon amandae ) is a small, peaceful, and vibrantly colored fish species native to the Araguaia Basin in Brazil. They’re perfect for adding life and color to your aquarium while maintaining a calm and harmonious environment.

• Temperature: Peaceful
• Diet: Omnivorous
• Tank Size: 10 gallons (37.9 liters) minimum
• Care Level: Easy
• Lifespan: 2 – 3 years
• Temperature: 73 – 84°F (23 – 29°C)
• Adult Size: 0.8 in (2 cm)

With their fiery orange-red hue, Ember Tetras are easy to care for and make great additions to beginner aquariums or community tanks with other similarly sized, peaceful fish.

Neon Tetra ( Paracheirodon innesi ) is a highly popular species among aquarium enthusiasts, primarily for its dazzling display of iridescent blue and red stripes. Native to the Amazon River Basin, Neon Tetras will illuminate your aquarium with their beautiful colors.

• Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
• Temperature: 70 – 81°F (21 – 27°C)
• Adult Size: 1.2 in (3 cm)

Best kept in a school of at least six individuals, Neon Tetras exude a mesmerizing, iridescent glow and are well-suited to community tanks with other non-aggressive, small aquatic species.

Cardinal Tetra

Cardinal Tetra ( Paracheirodon axelrodi ) is another eye-catching species for aquarium hobbyists, sporting a vibrant mix of iridescent blue and vivid red stripes. Hailing from the Orinoco River system and the upper Negro River basin, these small tetras are truly captivating.

• Care Level: Moderate
• Lifespan: 4 – 5 years
• Temperature: 73 – 81°F (23 – 27°C)
• Adult Size: 1.6 in (4 cm)

Ideal for community tanks, Cardinal Tetras should be kept in a group of at least six individuals to showcase their stunning coloration and exhibit their natural, harmonious behavior.

Black Neon Tetra

Black Neon Tetra ( Hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi ) offers a striking contrast to the more colorful tetra species, enhancing your aquarium’s visual appeal with its jet black stripe against a silver-gray body.

• Tank Size: 15 gallons (56.8 liters) minimum
• Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
• Temperature: 68 – 82°F (20 – 28°C)
• Adult Size: 1.5 in (3.8 cm)

Originating from the Paraguay watershed, Black Neon Tetras attract attention with their unique coloration. These hardy fish thrive in a community tank with other friendly, small species and can adapt to various water conditions with ease.

Emperor Tetra

Emperor Tetra ( Nematobrycon palmeri ) is an elegant choice for your aquarium, boasting a unique combination of iridescent blue, green, and purple scales, as well as filamentous fins.

• Tank Size: 20 gallons (75.7 liters) minimum
• Lifespan: 3 – 6 years
• Temperature: 73 – 82°F (23 – 28°C)
• Adult Size: 1.8 in (4.5 cm)

Originally from the Colombian Atrato River basin, Emperor Tetras are known for their vibrant coloration and impressive fin extensions. They make a perfect addition to community tanks with other non-aggressive species, especially when kept in a shoal of six or more individuals.

Penguin Tetra

The elegant Penguin Tetra ( Thayeria boehlkei ), named for its distinct swimming posture that resembles a penguin, adds charm and beauty to any aquarium with its silver body and black-striped tail.

• Lifespan: 5 years

Natives of the Amazon River Basin, Penguin Tetras thrive in a community tank environment. They’re best suited for larger schools of six or more to enjoy their shimmering silver hue and graceful movements, making a perfect companion for other peaceful, small fish species.

Glowlight Tetra

Glowlight Tetra ( Hemigrammus erythrozonus ), as its name suggests, illuminates your aquarium, thanks to an iridescent, red-orange stripe that runs through its silvery body.

• Temperature: 74 – 82°F (23 – 28°C)

These enchanting species, originating from the Essequibo River Basin in Guyana, complement any community tank with their bright display and peaceful temperament. Ensure optimal conditions by maintaining a mildly acidic environment, with plenty of plants and hiding spots for them to explore.

Lemon Tetra

Sporting a mesmerizing, translucent yellow hue combined with unique black markings on their fins, Lemon Tetra ( Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis ) is sure to brighten your aquarium.

• Lifespan: 4 – 8 years
• Temperature: 72 – 79°F (22 – 26°C)

Lemon Tetras hail from the Tapajos River in Brazil and thrive in a community tank setting. To make the most of their vivid colors, house them in a group of at least six among other peaceful fish species, providing ample swimming space and hiding spots.

Silvertip Tetra

Silvertip Tetra ( Hasemania nana ) is a charming, small tetra species loved for its distinct silvery tips on its fins, creating a captivating display against its golden-yellow body.

• Adult Size: 1.4 in (3.5 cm)

Native to the waterways of Brazil, Silvertip Tetras make excellent additions to peaceful community tanks. To bring out their best colors and behavior, house these tetras in a group of at least six and provide plenty of plants and hiding spots in the aquarium.

Panda Tetra

Panda Tetra ( Aphyocharax paraguayensis ), with its distinctive body coloration resembling the black and white colors of a panda, adds a unique touch to any aquarium.

Originating from the Paraguay River Basin, Panda Tetras prefer brackish water environments and a well-planted tank, making them a fitting addition to a community aquarium. A group of six or more individuals showcases their attractive color pattern and allows them to exhibit their natural schooling behavior.

Bloodfin Tetra

Bloodfin Tetra ( Aphyocharax anisitsi ) enhances the beauty of any aquarium with its striking appearance, featuring a silver body and vivid red fins that resemble streaks of blood.

• Lifespan: 5 – 7 years
• Temperature: 64 – 82°F (18 – 28°C)
• Adult Size: 2 in (5 cm)

Indigenous to the rivers of South America, Bloodfin Tetras are both hardy and adaptable, making them an excellent choice for novice aquarists. To witness their vibrant colors and harmonious schooling behavior, keep a group of six or more individuals in a planted community tank alongside other peaceful species.

Black Phantom Tetra

The intriguing Black Phantom Tetra ( Hyphessobrycon megalopterus ) captivates aquarists with its elegant contrast of a shimmering silver body and deep black markings.

• Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)

Native to the Amazon River Basin, Black Phantom Tetras thrive in community tanks and are best showcased in a group of at least six, creating an enchanting display among other peaceful, small, and similarly colored fish species. These tetras appreciate a well-planted tank with ample hiding spots.

Choosing the perfect tetra species for your aquarium is an exciting and rewarding process, as these small and vibrant inhabitants create a truly mesmerizing visual experience. From the ever-popular Neon Tetra to the enchanting Lemon Tetra, each species brings something special to a peaceful community tank.

No matter your choice, remember to provide optimal tank conditions and enjoy the captivating world of these fascinating, smallest tetras for aquariums.

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What is the healthiest fish? The No. 1 pick from a registered dietitian

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Fish is a high-quality lean protein, and chances are you’re not eating enough of it. The American Heart Association and our Dietary Guidelines recommend eating two servings of seafood a week, yet about 90% of Americans don’t hit this target.

There are numerous options to help you meet these recs, and varying your seafood intake is the best way to get the health-supporting nutrients fish contains while minimizing the risk of certain chemicals that may build up in fish over time. Here’s a handy guide to the healthiest fish to put on your plate.

Healthiest fish to eat

Based on their affordability, shelf-stability and nutritiousness, canned sardines are the best fish to eat. Canned sardines are packed with marine-based omega-3 fatty acids , a type of fat that helps lower inflammation and has been associated with benefits ranging from a lower risk of depression to a lower risk of heart disease and stroke . Gram for gram, canned sardines have even more of this powerhouse nutrient than salmon.

Canned sardines are also packed with calcium ; a typical can has about as much of the mineral as a glass of milk. They’re also a significant source of vitamin D, which helps with calcium absorption.

A 2021 study published in the journal Clinical Nutrition found that people with prediabetes — who’re at high risk of developing Type 2 diabetes — experienced a reduction in markers indicating a lower risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease when including sardines in their diet twice per week, when compared to those who were on a Type 2 diabetes prevention diet that didn’t include sardines. 

Worth noting: While sardines are one of the healthiest fish to eat, their fishy flavor can be polarizing. Herbs and lemons can help mellow out their fishiness. 

What is the healthiest fish to eat?

While sardines top the list as the healthiest fish to eat, salmon has many of the same benefits and is less fishy, so it’s more approachable. 

Worth noting: All forms of salmon (whether farmed or wild) have similar levels of nutrients, including omega-3s. Mercury and other environmental toxins aren’t a concern in salmon, so it’s safe to eat it regularly. However, it’s a good idea to make sure the salmon you buy is certified by an organization such as the Marine Stewardship Council to indicate that it’s a sustainable choice. 

Consider trout an alternative to salmon — they’re closely related and interchangeable in recipes. Trout is milder than salmon, so it can be a good starter option if you’re just getting on board with seafood. Like salmon, it’s rich in beneficial omega-3 fats, protein and other nutrients, such as vitamin D . 

Worth noting: You can score a day’s worth of vitamin D in 3.5 ounces of trout.

Arctic char

Raw arctic char has pink flesh similar to salmon, but becomes less pink as you cook it. Flavor-wise, it’s less fishy than salmon and more similar to trout in taste. 

Arctic char is rich in beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that may help prevent heart disease and are essential for brain health and development.

Worth noting: You can use Arctic char in recipes that call for salmon and vice versa. 

You’ll often find this firm, white fish as a steak (rather than a fillet), so it’s a great choice for grilling. In addition to protein, halibut provides more than 50% of your daily requirement for vitamin B12 , a nutrient that plays a vital role in nerve function and cellular energy. 

Worth noting: Since it has more mercury than some contenders for the best fish to eat, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration lists it as a good (as opposed to best) choice and recommends eating it no more than once a week. During weeks you’re eating halibut, the FDA also suggests choosing protein sources other than fish for the rest of the week.

According to the National Fisheries Institute, shrimp is the most popular fish eaten in America. It’s an excellent, low-calorie protein choice that’s packed with other nutrients. 

For example, astaxanthin is a carotenoid responsible for shrimp’s pink hue. Studies involving animals and supplements suggest that this compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect against cancer, heart disease, neurodegenerative diseases and Type 2 diabetes. 

Worth noting: Research in rats confirms what you probably already knew: Boiling and grilling — but not frying — preserve shrimp’s nutritional value and are considered the healthiest ways to eat shrimp.

One of the leanest choices around, a portion of cooked cod is about 100 calories with 23 grams of protein. Cod contains other important nutrients, such as B vitamins, which help your body convert compounds from food into energy for your cells.

Worth noting: Cod is great for newbies since it’s among the mildest fish. It’ll hold up to several cooking methods, like grilling and baking, and it’s also meaty enough to use in soups and stews.

Another lean, flaky, white fish, branzino comes from the Mediterranean Sea; another name for it is Mediterranean sea bass. 

Branzino is packed with protein and vitamin D, a nutrient involved in immune functioning, glucose metabolism and calcium absorption.

Worth noting: This is a small fish, and the bones are easy to remove, so it’s often cooked whole, whether roasted in a pan or oven or grilled .

These small, oily fish are loaded with nutrients, including protein, omega-3s and calcium. They’re also rich in selenium, an antioxidant that protects your cells from damage that can lead to heart disease, cancer and other health issues.

Worth noting: Anchovies are most commonly sold packed in oil and salt-cured in a can. You can also find them in a paste. They add a salty, briny flavor to foods like salad dressings and pasta dishes.

These bivalves are rich in iron and vitamin B12, and they also contribute meaningful amounts of zinc and protein to your diet. They’re quite low in calories: A typical portion has just about 100 calories. While mussels are nutritious, they’re commonly served with French fries, so go easy on the fries and have some veggies on the side to get the most health benefits from your meal.

Worth noting: Mussels are on the Monterrey Bay Aquarium’s Best Choice list, indicating they’re a top choice for environmental sustainability. 

Scallops are often described as buttery and sweet, so they’re a great choice for people who aren’t as fond of fishier fish, those new to seafood, and even picky eaters. 

Like other fish, scallops contain protein and other key nutrients, including zinc and selenium, both of which support optimal immune function. 

Worth noting: Scallops are on the FDA’s best choice list, meaning they’re quite low in mercury , so you can eat them often. They’re also a best choice for environmental sustainability, per the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch .

There are several types of crab, including Dungeness, stone and king crab. When eaten baked, boiled or steamed, they’re a light and lean choice, with around 100 calories or less and up to 20 grams of protein per serving.

Worth noting: Watch out for imitation crab meat, which is a cheaper, processed alternative to crab meat. It may not contain any crab meat, and it may have starches and other non-fish ingredients added.

A 3.5-ounce portion of flounder has under 100 calories and 15 grams of protein. Reducing your intake of red and processed meats by eating more healthy fish, like flounder, may help reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer and Type 2 diabetes.

Worth noting: Flounder can be bought and cooked whole or as a fillet. The fillets are soft and flaky, but coating them with chopped nuts or flour will help keep them from falling apart.

Canned tuna is one of the most convenient and affordable healthy fish around. Like other fish, it packs protein and contains valuable nutrients, including omega-3 fats, selenium, iron and vitamin B12. While it’s common to mix it with mayo, it’s delicious in other preparations, such as tossed into pasta, made into patties, and combined with beans, herbs and extra virgin olive oil.

Worth noting: Canned albacore (white) and yellowfin tuna are higher in mercury than skipjack (light) tuna. Higher mercury species, like canned white tuna, should only be eaten once a week, and other fish shouldn’t be eaten in the same week.

Fish benefits

Fish is chock full of nutrients, and eating fish at least twice a week is smart for your health. Some of thee benefits include:

• Packs high-quality protein: Fish is a great protein source, and a protein-rich meal can help you stay fuller longer between meals. This may make it easier to manage your weight. Also, eating adequate protein is important for maintaining (and building) muscle mass throughout life. 
• Supplies vitamin D: Fish can be an important dietary source of vitamin D , a nutrient that supports bone health, immune regulation, and controlling your inflammatory response. More than 90% of adults in the United States don’t meet vitamin D recommendations, putting them at risk for weak bones and potentially other health issues, such as cancer , heart disease and depression.
• Rich in marine-based omega-3 fats: Many of the health benefits of fish pertain to these beneficial fats. Omega-3 fatty acids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect against numerous health issues.
• Lowers the risk of numerous health problems: Eating a fish-rich diet has been associated with a lower risk of many health concerns. For example, fish eaters may have protection against high blood pressure , heart disease , and dying prematurely from heart disease, depression , rheumatoid arthritis and dementia . Omega-3 fats also support brain health throughout life.

Fish high in omega-3 fats

While all fish contain omega-3 fats , oily fish have the most. The best sources of healthy omega-3 fats include salmon, trout, sardines and anchovies. The next best include white tuna, mussels and crab. The advice to eat fish twice a week is intended to help you get an average of 250 to 500 milligrams of EPA and DHA — two marine-based omega-3 fats.

Fish high in protein

Most fish have 15 or more grams of protein for a 3.5-ounce cooked portion. These fish have at least 20 grams of protein for that serving size, making them high-protein options.

Calories in fish

On the low end, fish contains about 100 calories, while on the higher end, oily fish, like salmon, have about 200 calories per 3.5 ounce cooked serving. For comparison’s sake, the same amount of cooked, skinless chicken breast has 165 calories, while the same serving of cooked flank steak trimmed of fat has 200 calories.

Fish you should never eat

There are plenty of reasons to eat fish and to vary your intake, but there are some fish that you should never eat. The FDA recommends avoiding king mackerel, marlin, orange roughy, shark, swordfish, tilefish and bigeye tuna since these species are the highest in mercury.

You can also check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch to find out which fish they recommend avoiding because they have the worst environmental impact. Alternatively, you can look for certifications, like the Marine Stewardship Council’s blue label and Best Aquaculture Practices , to steer you toward environmentally sustainable fish and away from fish you should never eat because of their environmental impact.

Are fish oil supplements just as good as eating fish?

This has been the topic of ongoing scientific debate . While there’s no doubt that including fish in your diet is associated with health benefits, studies on supplements have produced mixed results, depending on the condition. It may be that studies on supplements use a smaller dose than what’s needed to see a benefit or that studies aren’t long enough to see health differences between fish oil supplement users and non-users. 

The strongest evidence for fish oil supplements is for lowering blood pressure and triglyceride levels and potentially improving pain and stiffness among people with rheumatoid arthritis. 

That said, many experts suggest taking fish oil supplements if you aren’t meeting the recommended two servings of seafood per week. Talk to your health care provider before taking a fish oil supplement, as they may interfere with certain medications. 

Key takeaways

It’s a good idea to include two servings of fish in your diet each week and to mix up your sources. Fish have protein and beneficial nutrients, and eating fish has been shown to lower your risk of certain health problems. Choose lower mercury fish most often, and if you’re eating a fish that’s a little higher in mercury, choose protein sources other than fish the rest of the week. If you don’t eat fish twice a week, talk to your healthcare provider about taking a supplement.

Samantha Cassetty , MS, RD, is a nutrition and wellness expert, author and columnist. Her latest book is " Sugar Shock ." You can follow Samantha's practical balanced eating advice on Instagram at  @nutritionistsam .

Solo Swimmers: Fish Species That Thrive Living Alone

Some of us prefer to keep things simple or may not have ample space for an elaborate aquarium setup. If you’re one of them, worry not! Various fish species can live happily independently without fellow fishy roommates.

So let’s dive into the fascinating world of self-sufficient fish species as I share with you some top choices that don’t require buddies to flourish in your aquarium. After all, sometimes less really is more – even underwater!

The Independent Betta

The lone oscar, the self-sufficient pufferfish, the solitary cichlid, can different species of fish that prefer living alone be kept together in the same tank, or will they still exhibit territorial behaviors, what specific tank size and setup are recommended for each of these fish species that can live on their own, are there any special dietary requirements or feeding habits for these solitary fish species that should be taken into consideration when caring for them, how do the life spans of these fish species compare, and are there any unique health concerns to be aware of when keeping them as pets, what are some signs of stress or illness to watch out for in these solitary fish species, and how can these issues be addressed to ensure their well-being.

Ah, the beautiful and captivating Betta fish. Known for their vibrant colors and flowing fins, they are also quite popular among aquarists who desire a low-maintenance pet that can thrive independently.

What sets Bettas apart from many other fish is their unique personalities ; some may be shy, while others may be bold and assertive. Regardless of their quirks, one thing remains consistent – these solitary creatures prefer to live alone in an ideal tank setup catered specifically to them.

Creating the perfect environment for your independent Betta begins with selecting the right size tank . A minimum of 5 gallons should suffice as it allows plenty of space for swimming, exploring, and establishing territory without feeling overcrowded or stressed.

Equipping the tank with a heater will ensure optimal water temperature (between 76-80°F), which is crucial since Bettas are tropical fish known to suffer from poor health if kept in colder conditions. Additionally, including hiding spots such as caves, plants, or decorations provides your aquatic companion ample opportunity to seek refuge when needed.

Now that you have created an idyllic haven for your solitary friend to flourish in peace, it’s essential not to disrupt this harmony by introducing unwanted neighbors. Remember that although Bettas might seem lonely at times, they’re content being solo swimmers due to their territorial nature.

With this knowledge in mind, it becomes clear why keeping only one Betta per tank eliminates potential aggression issues are often seen when multiple males or females reside together .

As we continue our journey through the world of loner fishes seeking companionship elsewhere in life’s vast oceanariums, let us explore another species: the solo gourami!

The Solo Gourami

Taking care of a Solo Gourami is relatively easy; they’re hardy fish that can tolerate a wide range of water parameters.

They usually live for 3-5 years, depending on their environment and the quality of care they receive.

I’ve had some of mine for more than 6 years, so it’s worth investing in a good aquarium setup for them.

Ensure you give them plenty of hiding spaces and regular water changes – they’ll thrive!

Caring for a solo Gourami is a rewarding experience that allows you to focus all your attention on one spectacular fish. You’ll quickly realize their unique personalities and preferences make them an absolute joy to care for. As an experienced fishkeeper, I can tell you that providing the proper environment and meeting individual tank requirements are essential in ensuring your new aquatic friend thrives.

Solo fish maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated if you follow some basic guidelines. For starters, it’s crucial to maintain optimal water conditions by regularly checking temperature, pH levels , ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate concentrations. A suitable filtration system will work wonders to keep these parameters stable and create a healthy living space for your Gourami .

Providing adequate hiding spots within their habitat is essential since this species can become stressed if it feels exposed or vulnerable. Live plants such as Java Ferns make excellent additions for aesthetic purposes because they serve as natural filters and contribute towards improved water quality.

Feeding your Gourami appropriately plays a significant role in its overall well-being too. Offer a varied diet consisting of high-quality pellets or flakes and occasional treats like live or frozen foods (e.g., brine shrimp or bloodworms). This ensures they receive all the nutrients needed to stay happy and healthy while satisfying their instincts to hunt and scavenge.

Remember: taking exceptional care of our underwater friends is truly fulfilling when we see them flourish under our watchful eyes!

It’s truly amazing to watch our solo Gourami friends grow and flourish as they adapt and thrive within their carefully maintained environments. As an experienced fishkeeper, I know that understanding the factors affecting their lifespan is crucial for providing them a long and fulfilling life.

Generally, Gouramis have a lifespan of 4-6 years in captivity; however, some species can live even longer if given proper care.

One important aspect of ensuring your fish’s longevity is recognizing their unique adaptations and catering to these needs accordingly. For instance, Gouramis possess a labyrinth organ that allows them to breathe atmospheric air when necessary , so it’s essential to provide access to the water surface at all times.

Additionally, maintaining optimal water conditions by frequently monitoring parameters and performing regular partial water changes can significantly impact your fish’s overall health and extend its lifespan.

In conclusion, taking excellent care of our aquatic companions goes beyond just meeting their basic requirements; it also involves understanding the intricacies of their biology and behavior. By doing so, we contribute to their well-being and get immense satisfaction from watching them thrive under our dedicated care – because there’s nothing more rewarding than knowing you’ve played a vital role in nurturing another living being!

Ah, the solitary king of the aquatic world – the Oscar. A fish that doesn’t require a royal entourage to thrive majestically in its underwater kingdom. This regal creature can live comfortably on its own without needing fellow finned friends.

As an experienced fishkeeper, I must say Oscars have personalities as grand as their reputation suggests. Each Oscar has a unique character which makes them fascinating and enjoyable companions.

However, with great personality comes great responsibility; one must ensure they provide adequate tank necessities for these independent creatures to flourish gracefully. Oscars prefer spacious tanks (at least 55 gallons) to accommodate their potential size of up to 12 inches long. Additionally, it’s essential to maintain pristine water quality since poor conditions could lead to health issues or dull their vibrant colors.

Now, let us not forget about the self-sufficient pufferfish…

Now that we’ve delved into the fascinating world of Oscars let’s explore another fish that can thrive in solitude: the self-sufficient pufferfish. These captivating creatures make a statement with their distinct appearance and unique adaptations, allowing them to live happily independently. As you continue your journey as a dedicated fish keeper, it is essential to understand how these remarkable species have evolved to survive without constant companionship.

Creating an ideal environment for your pufferfish starts with understanding its natural habitat. Pufferfish are typically found in tropical marine environments such as coral reefs or estuaries, where they can feed on crustaceans and small invertebrates. In captivity, replicating this setting by providing ample hiding spaces like rock formations or driftwood helps create a sense of safety for your solitary swimmer while offering enrichment opportunities.

A well-established aquarium with stable water parameters will ensure your puffer’s health and happiness and satisfy your inner desire to provide exemplary care. From inflating themselves when threatened to display intricate patterns on their skin, pufferfish exhibit some truly awe-inspiring behaviors which captivate both experienced aquarists and casual observers alike.

Their independent nature makes them an excellent choice for those who want a singular focal point in their aquatic display while fulfilling one’s innate longing to nurture another living being. So indulge yourself in the satisfaction of caring for these exceptional individuals – after all, every creature deserves someone who understands its needs and appreciates its uniqueness.

Next up, get ready to dive into the realm of the equally intriguing solitary cichlid!

Like a lone wolf in the aquatic world, the solitary Cichlid thrives independently and can be an ideal pet for those who wish to focus on one fish at a time.

These fascinating creatures captivate the hearts of many experienced fish keepers with their unique personalities and engaging behaviors.

Cichlid personalities are as diverse as they come; some are aggressive, while others lean towards being more peaceful. Knowing your specific Cichlid’s temperament is essential before creating its habitat.

Ideal tanks for these individualistic swimmers include ample hiding spots such as caves or rocky structures, which provide them with a sense of security and comfort. Additionally, live plants add beauty to the tank and offer extra shelter for your beloved fishy friend, allowing them to feel genuinely at home in their underwater kingdom.

As you venture into the mesmerizing world of solitary Cichlids, remember that catering to their needs will result in a happy and healthy fish that brings joy to themselves and their doting caregivers.

So take pride in providing exceptional care tailored specifically to your unique aquatic companion, knowing that you’re directly contributing to their well-being and happiness – after all, there’s no greater reward than seeing your scaly sidekick thrive under your attentive support!

Frequently Asked Questions

As an experienced fish keeper, I can tell you that tankmate compatibility is still essential to maintaining a harmonious aquatic environment even when dealing with solitary fish species.

Although certain species may prefer living alone, combining them in the same tank doesn’t guarantee harmony among these reclusive underwater neighbors.

Solitary fish behavior often includes territorial tendencies that could lead to conflicts and stress for all inhabitants.

So, suppose you’re looking to serve your finned friends’ best interests. In that case, it’s crucial to research each species’ preferences and behaviors before introducing them in the same aquarium – ensuring peaceful coexistence and promoting their overall well-being.

Did you know that providing the right tank size and setup can increase your fish’s lifespan by up to 50%?

For those solitary fish species we love, like bettas, African dwarf frogs, cichlids, or even aquatic snails – creating a comfortable home is essential. Ideal tank decorations should cater to their needs: think caves for hiding spots in cichlid tanks or live plants for bettas .

When designing DIY fish tank setups, consider the unique requirements of each species; substrate preferences, water temperature ranges, and compatible flora are all crucial aspects.

As an experienced fish keeper, I’ve learned that fostering a healthy environment benefits our finned friends and serves as a rewarding experience for ourselves – there’s nothing quite like watching them thrive in a space tailored just for them!

Caring for our finned friends with unique fish habitats and solitary fish breeding habits requires special attention to their dietary needs.

As an experienced fish keeper, I can tell you that it’s crucial to research each species’ specific diet preferences and feeding frequency to ensure they thrive in your aquarium.

Many of these solo swimmers have diverse food choices, ranging from live or frozen foods like brine shrimp and bloodworms to high-quality pellets designed for particular types of fish.

Keep in mind, overfeeding can lead to poor water quality and health issues; therefore, serving the right portion size is essential for maintaining a happy and healthy environment for your aquatic buddies.

By catering to their individual nutritional requirements, you will foster a deeper connection with them and contribute towards creating a harmonious underwater world where they can flourish on their own terms.

There’s quite a range in lifespan comparison and unique health concerns of solitary fish species.

For example, bettas typically live around 3-5 years with proper care, while goldfish can live for over a decade if their environment is well-maintained.

On the other hand, guppies have shorter lifespans of about 1-2 years but are hardy and easy to look after.

Each species has specific needs – keeping your water clean and monitoring ammonia levels is crucial in maintaining their health.

Knowing how best to serve these aquatic companions means being aware of potential issues such as fin rot or swim bladder problems that could arise due to poor water quality or improper diet.

By staying informed on each species’ requirements and showing attentive care, you’ll be able to provide them with the optimal environment they deserve!

As a seasoned fishkeeper, it’s essential to be aware of solitary fish behaviors and recognize the signs of stress or illness. Stress prevention is crucial for their well-being!

Keep an eye out for changes in coloration, erratic swimming patterns, loss of appetite, rapid breathing, and white spots on their body – these could indicate that your finned buddy is struggling.

To ensure they remain happy and healthy, maintain optimal water quality by performing regular water changes, provide them with a suitable habitat, including hiding spaces and plants, feed them a balanced diet suited to their species, and avoid overcrowding.

Remember, as empathetic caretakers, our goal is to make sure our aquatic companions thrive in their environment while we enjoy the pleasure of serving others through nurturing life.

So, what’s the verdict on keeping these solitary fish species together? Will they coexist peacefully or bring chaos to your carefully curated tank? The truth is, it all depends on their temperaments and the specific conditions you provide for them.

Only time will tell if these independent swimmers can learn to share their space.

As an experienced fishkeeper, observing and understanding each unique creature is essential to maintaining a harmonious aquatic environment. Remember, a happy fish makes for a happy hobbyist!

So keep a close eye on your finned friends and be prepared to make adjustments as necessary to ensure their well-being.

Good luck, and enjoy the fascinating world of solitary fish care !

My name is Jaap, and I am a passionate shrimp and fish enthusiast. I rediscovered my love for this hobby with my son and want to share our knowledge and tips with you on this aquarium blog. We cover topics such as setting up and maintaining an aquarium, feeding and breeding your shrimp and fish, and creating the perfect environment for them to thrive.

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Animal Well: How to Unlock Fast Travel

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Animal Well: Where to Go After Bubble Wand

Animal well: how to beat the ghost cat boss, animal well: how to get all flames.

Fast traveling has become a staple of the modern gaming experience across genres, and players have come to expect a certain level of QoL, even from Metroidvanias. While games like Dragon’s Dogma 2 subvert player expectations of what fast travel looks like by making it extremely punishing, Animal Well goes a different route.

Instead of letting players warp to discovered locations via certain checkpoints—a standard practice in modern platformers — Animal Well 's Fast travel is integrated into the game via strategically placed animal mouths in locations that warrant revisiting. Here’s how it works.

Figuring out what to do next in Animal Well can be frustrating. This guide covers what players need to do after getting the Bubble Wand.

How to Fast Travel in Animal Well

Collect 8 secret eggs.

Secret eggs are hidden inside black chests throughout the map of Animal Well . Most often, they’re either protected by a puzzle or hidden behind false walls, making finding them challenging. Once players find eight eggs (any eight will do), a door will open in the egg room just west of the statue room (shown above).

Players will also receive the achievement ‘Egg Enjoyer—Find 8 Secret Eggs’ for collecting eight eggs.

With eggs in hand, visit the egg room and enter the bottom left door, which should now be unlocked automatically. This path leads toward a golden chest on three glass tiles. Open the chest to find the Animal Flute , the item needed to unlock fast travel shortcuts.

How to Use the Animal Flute

To unlock fast travel with the Animal Flute:

• Make your way to the top right exit (pictured above).
• Activate the Animal Flute to wake the Chinchillas and use their heads as jumping pads to reach the exit. This will lead to a small room with a pedestal and a crowhead on the top left.
• Activate the Animal Flute and sing any note; the Crow’s mouth will snap open.
• Jump into the mouth, and you’ll be taken to the Fast Travel room.

In the room with the animal heads, stand on the pedestal in the middle and activate the flute again . A few of the animal heads in the room will open their mouths. Each of these statues is a fast-travel shortcut to a location the player has previously visited. Walking into the mouths will lead players back to those places.

Depending on how much of the map players have explored, the number of fast travel points that open up when they first use the flute will differ.

Use the ladder below the pedestal to reach the room below. Stand on the pond's edge (as shown above), and you’ll see a green fish popping out of the water at regular intervals. This is a code describing how to use the Animal Flute. The fish faces right twice, left twice, down twice, and up twice before stopping.

Repeat the same actions with the Animal Flute: Right, Right, Left, Left, Down, Down, Up, Up . Playing the flute like this will let players warp back to the fast travel room instantly (the one with the animal mouths) from any location on the map. This way, they don’t have to make the trek through the egg room every time there is a need for fast travel.

Fast travel spots are visible on the map as little white dots. They’re extremely hard to spot, even when fully zoomed in, and only appear on the map after players have unlocked them.

Animal Well

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America's Best Small Beach Town Is an Old Florida Gem With Crystal-clear Waters and a Scenic Bike Path

Old Florida meets laid-back island living in elegant Boca Grande.

• The Best Times to Visit

Things to Do

Where to stay, where to eat and drink, where to shop, how to get there.

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While the state of Florida welcomes almost 140 million visitors each year, only a small portion of them make their way to serene Gasparilla Island and its main hub, Boca Grande. This upscale yet down-to-earth community on the Gulf of Mexico is just the right amount of under-the-radar, except when it comes to its role as “tarpon capital of the world."

In the words of Nikki Heimann, manager of The Pink Pony — an island-favorite ice cream shop opened in 1988 by her grandfather — the stoplight- and franchise-free community is “like stepping back in time.”

“Our beaches are stunningly clean and our water is usually clear and sparkling, with a bountiful variety of sea life,” she says. “A big allure is game fishing in our deep-water pass for tarpon. We have two well-maintained historical lighthouses with a museum and state park on the south end, and a smooth bike path that runs the whole length of the island, so many people enjoy renting a golf cart or bicycle to spend the day cruising around. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for peace, tranquility, and quiet time.”

Beyond its looks, Boca Grande is resilient. Along with much of Southwest Florida, especially Sanibel and Captiva islands to the south, it was devastated by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. The Pink Pony reopened soon after the storm, but other establishments were not so fortunate. “Many iconic features of our landscape are gone forever," Heimann says. "Everyone around here has their story and struggle that they’re going through. We are just thankful we didn’t get washed out.”

Back in action, Boca Grande remains a captivating place to visit — a tranquil respite from the frenetic pace of our modern world (and many parts of Florida) with a beachy, small-town allure. In fact, Travel + Leisure rated it the best small beach town in the country in 2023. Find out why for yourself by exploring the village by golf cart, bike, or your own two feet.

Nikki Heimann, The Pink Pony

It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for peace, tranquility, and quiet time.

Ben Krut/Getty Images

The Best Times to Visit 

Like many beach towns in Florida , Boca Grande is a seasonal destination. “Most people enjoy coming to the island during our busy ‘social season’ when the town is bustling with activity and the Florida sunshine is a delightful reprieve from the winter snow up north,” Heimann says. This period lasts from approximately Thanksgiving to spring break.

“Then, we roll into tarpon season, when the fishing families come to town and enjoy the island through summertime,” she continues. “Many downtown businesses close during August and September, so that’d be the time to come if you like to sweat in solitude.”

While mid- to late summer is a crowd-free, quieter time in Boca Grande, you may have trouble securing a stay, as the Gasparilla Inn closes annually from mid-July to early October. However, other hotels stay open, and there are assorted vacation rentals available. When planning your visit, remember that the best time to visit Florida , in general, is spring and winter as hurricane season lasts from June 1 through Nov. 30 each year, so there’s always a chance of storms during the summer and fall. 

Getty Images

As one might expect of America’s best small beach town, the best things to do in Boca Grande are in, around, or on the water — namely, fishing, shelling, boating, beaches, and biking. Heimann says the number one thing she recommends is not so much an activity but an experience: enjoying a sunset either on the beach or a paddleboard. Other things to do include climbing the Gasparilla Island Lighthouse (known locally as the “range light”) and heading to Gasparilla Island State Park for swimming, snorkeling, or fishing. Keep an eye out for the tarpon that often jump and roll in the deep waters of Boca Grande Pass. Or, for more tarpon time, go during the annual World’s Richest Tarpon Tournament , a tradition dating back to the early 1980s. Thousands of dollars in prize money is on the (literal) line.

You can see much of what Gasparilla Island has to offer on the Boca Grande Bike Path . The island is only seven miles long and a half-mile across at its widest point, and this 6.5-mile path runs past highlights like Banyan Street, the Boca Grande Historical Society , and the pretty-in-pink Johann Fust Community Library . The north end is close to Glass Bottom Rentals , where Heimann recommends renting a clear kayak to paddle around the old railroad trestles nearby.

Try to score an invite to the members-only Useppa Island ; otherwise, a day trip to Cayo Costa should scratch the island-adventure itch. It’s accessible only via boat or kayak, with a ferry service available from several mainland locations.

Courtesy of The Gasparilla Inn & Club

Gasparilla Inn & Club 

The Gasparilla Inn & Club represents old Florida at its finest, striking the perfect balance between ritzy and relaxed. The inn has a variety of accommodation options, from rooms and suites in The Main Inn to private cottages and two- to four-bedroom villas. Guests can take part in a range of activities, from golf to croquet, fitness classes, and spa treatments. The inn has four eateries — just be sure to pack with the dress code in mind.

Boca Grande Hotel

The quaint Boca Grande Hotel offers more laid-back accommodations on the north end of Gasparilla Island, near Uncle Henry’s Marina , but the closest public beach access is three miles away. The property has an outdoor pool, loungers that you can rent out and bring with you to the beach, and a guest laundromat for cleaning up before you repack your suitcase. Next door, you can grab a deli sandwich or ice cream from Kappy’s Market .

The Palmetto Inn

A sister to the Boca Grande Hotel, The Palmetto Inn is located in the Downtown Boca Grande Historic District and just a short walk from the beach. Built as a private residence in 1900, it’s now a charming inn with seven suites and some of the lowest in-season rates on the island.

The Innlet on the Waterfront

Located on the waters of the Boca Grande Bayou, The Innlet on the Waterfront is an unfussy charmer with about 30 waterfront and courtyard-facing rooms. Amenities include a pool, on-site restaurant serving breakfast and lunch, plus a full-service marina if you BYOB (Florida-speak for "bring your own boat"). Be on the lookout for manatees as you enjoy your breakfast on the patio of The Outlet.

Gasparilla Inn

Guests of the Gasparilla Inn will be delighted to find that its restaurants are some of Boca Grande’s best. It has an elegant main dining room (open for breakfast and dinner), the casual Pink Elephant (open for lunch and dinner), and the atmospheric BZ’s, where the public and guests alike can enjoy beverages and snacks while taking in views of The Gasparilla Golf Club and Charlotte Harbor. The Beach Club is another favorite for poolside beverages and lunch but is reserved for inn guests and members only.

The Temptation Restaurant 

To experience Boca Grande like a local, order the fish of the day at The Temptation Restaurant . Signature dishes include crab cakes served with roasted shrimp sauce and pan-fried lemony-garlic snapper, while the daily special might be blackened tripletail or chargrilled pompano. The wine list is equally impressive.

Scarpa’s Coastal

Sister to the beloved, family-owned Scarpa’s Italian in Lakeland, Scarpa’s Coastal serves fresh Florida seafood with an Italian flair. It also offers an extensive wine menu with bottles imported from Napa Valley and Italy. Patrons rave about the crab cakes, pasta, and chicken dishes.

Eagle Grille and Miller’s Dockside at Boca Grande Marina

The Boca Grande Marina is home to two restaurants, Eagle Grille and Miller’s Dockside . At Eagle Grille, you’ll find a quieter setting with second-floor waterfront views, while Miller’s Dockside has a sports bar atmosphere right on the water. They have the same menu, full of fresh coastal cuisine like oysters, Gulf grouper, and shrimp.

Sisters Restaurant

It’s not vacation unless you go out for pizza at least once, and Sisters Restaurant is the place to do it. This homey spot offers classic Italian comfort foods to eat indoors or out — and, yes, it really is owned by twin sisters.

The Pink Pony

What’s a beach day without a stop for ice cream? The best place to grab a sweet treat is The Pink Pony, the kind of hometown ice cream shop that once rented out movies on VHS and developed photo film. Things are different now, but visitors can continue at least one generations-old Boca Grande tradition and stop in for hand-dipped Amish ice cream, sorbets, specialty sundaes, shaved ice, all-fruit smoothies, açaí bowls, and coffee drinks. The Pink Pony also has snacks, beer, wine, bagged ice, and souvenirs. And don’t miss Tortuga , the outdoor walk-up window serving authentic Mexican food behind the storefront.

Boca Grande has local, family-owned shops selling souvenirs, art, clothes, and more. Heimann recommends Fugate’s — “a classic island gift store that has a little bit of everything,” she says. Or stop by Barbara Anne’s for a special piece of jewelry to commemorate your trip. 

At the family-owned Smart Studio Art Gallery & Shop (which has another location in Maine), you’ll find stunning local art, including original paintings, prints, driftwood sculptures, gifts, and home decor. Or, if you’re in the market for light tackle or outdoorsy clothing and accessories, stop by Boca Grande Outfitters .

Samuel Foster/Getty Images

Aside from the private Coral Creek Airport, which is less than 10 miles from Boca Grande, there are several public airports nearby. The closest is Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), about an hour away, which is serviced by Sun Country and Allegiant Air with nonstop flights from about 50 cities.

There’s also Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), both of which are about an hour and a half away, and Tampa International Airport (TPA), which is about two hours away by car. Boca Grande is over three hours from both Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Miami International Airport (MIA). No matter where you fly into, there’s just one road onto Gasparilla Island: the Boca Grande Causeway.

America’s Best Small Towns 2023

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Beginner Tips And Tricks For Little Kitty, Big City

Quick links, think like a cat, dig through every trashcan, find the cloth, arrows, and potted plants, explore, explore, explore, take advantage of fast travel, look for fish first, unblock the small passages.

Little Kitty, Big City is an adorable adventure where you explore a bustling metropolis through the eyes of a feline. Forget the pressures of human life; here, you can embrace your inner cat and prowl the streets with playful abandon. Chase birds, bat at cans, and leave the wreckage of dozens of pots on unsuspecting doorsteps – the city is your playground!

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But with a map so full of surprises, even the most adventurous kitty might need a helping paw. This guide will equip you with the purrrfect tips and tricks to navigate the urban jungle with confidence. Let's dive in.

This game isn't just about following a linear path. The true joy lies in experiencing the world through a cat's senses. Let your curiosity be your guide! Pounce on unsuspecting birds, investigate how you can interact with world objects, or purr your way into the good graces of humans.

These seemingly mundane interactions can unlock delightful surprises you might not otherwise discover. Remember, a curious kitty is a happy kitty.

Shinies are the lifeblood of Little Kitty, Big City. These little treasures act as currency, allowing you to progress through the main story and, more arguably importantly, acquire the most coveted feline fashion accessory: hats ! However, finding enough can be tricky.

Thankfully, blue trashcans are littered throughout the city. Digging into these bins nets you a decent haul of three Shinies each , and trust us, those Shinies add up quickly. It's a quick way to collect Shinies, especially for those first 25 you need.

Additionally, give those orange traffic cones a good yank. These unassuming orange objects also hold hidden Shinies , similar to trashcans just not quite as much.

Sometimes, the solution to a seemingly insurmountable obstacle lies just above your head. When you're feeling stuck, don't forget to use your feline agility. Many objectives and treasures can be found by looking up for ledges, platforms, or hidden pathways you might have missed at first glance.

This vertical exploration is especially important when searching for those pesky Ducklings. Two of those little fluffballs test your climbing skills, so be prepared to channel your inner spider-kitty.

The bustling city isn't as chaotic as it may seem. Look closely, and you'll find helpful hints scattered throughout, designed to guide your feline exploration. Keep an eye out for these subtle clues:

While the main story of Little Kitty, Big City might be a relatively quick romp, the true magic lies in exploring the city's nooks and crannies.

Don't rush through the adventure; take your time and savor the delightful details. You'll uncover hidden side quests that test your puzzle skills, collect playful emotes to express your inner kitty emotions, and most importantly, discover the plethora of adorable hats hidden throughout the city.

As you dive deeper into the city, you'll inevitably encounter situations where backtracking becomes necessary. Thankfully, later in the game, you'll unlock the ever-so-convenient Fast Travel system.

Through helping a spunky Tanuki collect a few feathers (another opportunity for some good-natured kitty chaos), you gain this ability to zip across the map in a flash.

Since the city isn't massive by any means, you might hesitate to take advantage. However, constantly retracing your steps can get tedious. This handy system can become your best friend, allowing you to spend less time traveling and more time exploring the city's hidden gems.

Fish are your key to reaching higher obstacles. Each one you collect grants you more climbing power on those tricky vines. Focus on grabbing these fin-tastic objectives early on to help you navigate around the map more easily.

There are 4 fish in total, so keep your eyes peeled. The first one is obtained as part of the main storyline , and the other three unlock on the map after.

To easily find fish, head to the Zen Garden after you've helped the Crow collect 25 Shinies. There, chat with the Duck Dad, and he'll grant you a map, pointing you in the right direction.

As you explore the city, you'll encounter some holes in walls that seem perfect for squeezing through, but sometimes, pesky objects block your path.

While you might find a new way around this obstacle, keep in mind these blocked holes. Whenever you find yourself on the other side of the blockage, remove the object! This way, on future adventures through that area, you'll have a handy shortcut ready to pounce through.

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Snakes discovered in passenger's pants by TSA at Miami International Airport: See photos

Let's call them snakes headed on a plane.

Transportation Security Administration agents in South Florida got a slithery surprise after the federal agency reported finding snakes in a passenger's pants at an airport checkpoint.

According to TSA, the reptilian discovery took place at the Miami International Airport on Friday.

The agency did not identify the passenger or say whether they were arrested.

Photos taken at the airport provided by TSA show two slender pink snakes outside of a small camo-colored bag, after apparently being pulled from the passenger's pants before they were able to board a plane.

See the 'Two-headed gal': Rare snake with two heads undergoes surgery to remove ovaries

Snakes found in passenger's pants turned over to Florida wildlife officers

After the discovery, TSA said it called the Customs and Border Protection Southeast Region and Miami-Dade Police for assistance.

It was not immediately known if the snakes were the passengers pets or whether the person was simply trying to transport them out of the city.

The snakes, TSA reported, were turned over to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Internet reacts to snakes in pants

When TSA posted the finding on X over the weekend, people on the internet had thoughts.

One user posted: "OMG why would anyone have that?!"

"Is that a snake in your pants?" another person asked.

Another X reader commented: "Maybe he wanted to film a remake of the movie 'Snakes on a Plane'!!!"

"Because the TSSSSSSSSSA fearsssssss competition," one person posted .

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.