Top Low Maintenance Fish for Your Planted Aquarium

Creating a planted aquarium is a rewarding hobby that combines the beauty of aquatic plants with the calming presence of fish. However, not all fish thrive in planted tanks, especially if you want to keep maintenance low and protect your plants. Choosing the right fish can make your aquarium a peaceful, balanced ecosystem that requires minimal effort. This guide highlights some of the best fish for planted tanks that are both low maintenance and plant-friendly.

Colorful small fish swimming in a planted aquarium

Why Choosing the Right Fish Matters

Fish and plants in an aquarium interact closely. Some fish nibble on plants, uproot them, or stir up the substrate, which can damage your carefully arranged greenery. Others may require specific water conditions that conflict with the needs of your plants. Selecting fish that coexist peacefully with plants and tolerate a range of water parameters reduces stress for both fish and aquarists.

Low maintenance fish typically adapt well to stable aquarium conditions, eat readily available foods, and do not require frequent water changes or special care. They also tend to be hardy, making them ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a beautiful planted tank without constant upkeep.

Top Low Maintenance, Plant-Friendly Fish

1. Neon Tetras

Neon tetras are a classic choice for planted tanks. Their small size and peaceful nature make them excellent community fish. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water and moderate temperatures, which suit many common aquatic plants.

• Behavior: Schooling fish that thrive in groups of six or more

• Plant interaction: Do not eat plants; they swim among leaves without causing damage

• Care level: Easy; feed on flakes, micro pellets, and occasional live food

  
  

Neon tetras add vibrant blue and red colors that contrast beautifully with green plants, creating a lively underwater scene.

2. Corydoras Catfish

Corydoras catfish are bottom dwellers that help keep the substrate clean by scavenging leftover food. They are gentle and rarely disturb plants.

• Behavior: Social fish that prefer groups of at least four

• Plant interaction: Do not uproot plants; their soft barbels allow them to sift through sand or fine gravel without harm

• Care level: Easy; omnivorous diet including sinking pellets and frozen foods

  
  

Their peaceful nature and active bottom swimming make them a favorite for planted tanks.

3. Otocinclus Catfish

Otocinclus catfish are small algae eaters that help control algae growth on plants and aquarium glass. They are very gentle and do not harm plants.

• Behavior: Prefer groups of five or more; shy but active during the day

• Plant interaction: Eat algae without damaging live plants

• Care level: Moderate; require stable water conditions and a diet supplemented with algae wafers or blanched vegetables

  
  

Otocinclus are perfect for aquarists who want natural algae control without chemicals.

Otocinclus catfish feeding on algae in a planted aquarium

4. Guppies

Guppies are colorful, hardy fish that adapt well to various water conditions. They are active swimmers and add movement to the mid and upper levels of the tank.

• Behavior: Livebearers that breed easily; keep males and females balanced to avoid overpopulation

• Plant interaction: Do not eat plants; may nibble on soft leaves occasionally but rarely cause damage

• Care level: Easy; omnivorous diet including flakes and live food

  
  

Guppies’ bright colors and lively behavior make them a popular choice for planted tanks.

5. Cherry Barbs

Cherry barbs are peaceful and colorful fish that do well in planted tanks. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral water and moderate temperatures.

• Behavior: Schooling fish; keep in groups of six or more

• Plant interaction: Do not uproot or eat plants; enjoy swimming through dense vegetation

• Care level: Easy; omnivorous diet with flakes, pellets, and occasional live food

  
  

Their red hues stand out against green plants, enhancing the tank’s visual appeal.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Planted Tank with Fish

• Choose compatible species: Avoid fish known for digging or eating plants, such as goldfish or large cichlids.

• Provide hiding spots: Dense plants and decorations help fish feel secure and reduce stress.

• Feed appropriately: Overfeeding leads to excess waste, which can harm plants and water quality.

• Monitor water parameters: Regular testing ensures conditions support both fish and plants.

• Control algae naturally: Use algae-eating fish like Otocinclus to keep algae in check without chemicals.