If you are a fish enthusiast but also someone who is still on a beginner level, then fish bowl care while keeping the fish in a fish bowl is the best thing you can do to kickstart this journey!
Starting with a small fish bowl is a cheap and easy way for new fish lovers. No fancy gadgets are needed! But, picking the right fish that can live in a fish bowl is the key. Bowls have limits, like less oxygen. So, choose a fish that loves bowl life!
In this guide, we’ll show you simple and happy fish that can live in a fish bowl that makes your beginner fish bowl a success. Get ready for a splash of joy in your new aquatic adventure because we are going to share fish bowl care too!
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How to Setup Different Types of Fish Bowl?
Research First:
- Start by reading up on and choosing fish that will work well in your bowl.
Slow Setup
- Go slowly when arranging the different types of fish bowl.
- Give yourself plenty of time to let the water dechlorinate and initiate the biological cycle that regulates the ammonia levels.
Procedure:
- After 5-7 days, place the chosen species.
- As you slowly bring the plastic bags up to temperature, they will become more comfortable.
- This step should take thirty minutes for a small size fish bowl.
Slow Release:
- After 40 to 45 minutes, carefully open the bags and add a half-cup of water every five minutes.
- Your fish are now prepared to be dropped into the bowl.
7 Types of Fish That Can Live In a Fish Bowl
Betta Fish
Introducing the Betta fish, also known as the Siamese fighting fish! These vibrant friends are fantastic for fish bowls. Remember, though, that they like a slightly large home with filters and heaters. In particular, the guys can be rather possessive of their bettas. Please, only one male per bowl!
Paradise Fish
If you need fish that can live in a fish bowl except Bettas then Paradise fish is the perfect substitute!
Take the Paradise fish into consideration if you’re a Betta fan. They change color to impress, just like Betta’s hip cousins. Men show off their fins, much like their Betta friends.
Zebra Danios
Next are Zebra Danios, the vibrant, striped fish that would look great in your bowl. They’re not fussy eaters, so there’s no need for a filter! These little men prefer living alone or congregating in groups of five. Easy to maintain and inexpensive!
Goldfish
Goldfish are a timeless bowl companion, known for their vibrant hues and easy care. But watch out—they can get very large! Get a good filter and change their water frequently to keep your goldfish happy. They can be the perfect fish that can live in a fish bowl if you keep them comfortable.
Scarlet Badis
The tiny jewels of fish bowls, Scarlet Badis, require 5 to 10 gallons to shine. Particularly the guys, they are fierce little but powerful beings. Enjoy their distinct beauty, take good care of them, and maintain the proper temperature.
Guppies
Adding color and charm to your bowl, guppies are the darlings of fish lovers. If you intend to host guppy get-togethers, you might want to think about inviting the males. Feed them well, but be easy on the maintenance. A slightly larger fish bowl can be great for them!
Gourami
Presenting Sparkling Gourami, the amiable little fish with a glossy coat and adorable fish. They add a little shine and sound, making them a stylish option for your bowl. If you keep their space comfortable, these little friends will keep you amused.
Ember Tetras
With their vivid orange-red hues, ember tetras, also known by their scientific name Hyphessobrycon amandae. Not only are these tiny fish visually pleasing, but they also have a mild temperament. They enjoy socializing with other embers, so if you want a vibrant aquatic scene, think about keeping a small school of them in your bowl.
Fish Bowl Care Guide and Requirements
Fish Species | Care Level | Adult Size | Temperature | Diet | Lifespan |
Betta Fish | Easy | 0.8-1 inch | 73-84°F | Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, occasional live or frozen treats. | 2-3 years |
Paradise Fish | Easy | 0.8-1 inch | 73-84°F | Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, occasional live or frozen treats. | 2-3 years |
Zebra Danios | Easy | 0.8-1 inch | 73-84°F | Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, occasional live or frozen treats. | 2-3 years |
Goldfish | Easy | Varies | Cooler temperatures | Omnivorous; a balanced diet with occasional treats. | 10-20 years |
Scarlet Badis | Moderate | Small | 73-84°F | Carnivorous; small live or frozen foods. | 2-3 years |
Guppies | Easy | Varies | 73-82°F | Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food. | 1-3 years |
Sparkling Gourami | Easy | Small | 73-82°F | Omnivorous; flake or pellet food with occasional live treats. | 4-5 years |
Ember Tetras | Easy | 0.8-1 inch | 73-84°F | Omnivorous; high-quality flake or pellet food, occasional live or frozen treats. | 2-3 years |
Different Types of Fish Bowl
The different types of fish bowl include;
Traditional Drum-Style Fish Bowl
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Available in: Australia, Canada, UK and US
Selecting the traditional drum-style fish bowl prioritizes width over depth. Such different types of fish bowl offers greater water volume, so it’s a sensible choice for people who value giving their underwater friends roomy quarters.
Fish Bowl in Round Form
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Available in: Australia, Canada, UK and US
Adopting a perfectly circular shape, these fish bowls appeal to fans of goldfish, giving them a touch of Dorothy from Elmo’s World. In addition to their beautiful appearance, this round and small size fish bowl provides more water volume when compared to traditional different types of fish bowl drum designs of the same size.
The Bio-Orb Fish Bowl
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Available in: Australia, Canada, UK and US
Fish bowls from Bio-Orb, a brand known for its cutting-edge technology, include a filtration system. These small size fish bowls are a contemporary and effective option for aquatic environments because, despite their sleek appearance, they frequently have larger sizes than traditional ones.
Marineland’s Framed Fish Bowl with Light
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Available in: Australia, Canada, UK and US
Made with both style and utility in mind, Marineland’s framed fish bowls come with built-in lights. Designed specifically for Betta fish, these different types of fish bowl give your aquatic display a refined touch.
The Fish Bowl Sizes
1/2 Gallon: The least expensive, lightest, and most compact option for small spaces.
One gallon: Easily accessible, small in size, and provides a moderate amount of water.
1.5 Gallon: A well-liked option that is marginally bigger and gives your aquatic friends more space.
2-gallon: A larger capacity that provides plenty of room without getting too bulky.
3-gallon: The 3-gallon fish bowl is one of the biggest in conventional designs, perfect for people looking for a larger aquatic environment.
Fish Bowl Care
Fish bowls add life to any space, but maintaining cleanliness is essential for happy fish. The main cause of fish illness and even death is poor fish bowl care or improper maintenance.
To ensure that your fish and their habitat remain in good condition, you need to set a nice fish bowl care plan. Prepare your water in advance, clean inside items, and wash the bowl every other day.
By following these fish bowl care guidelines, you can keep your fish bowl looking vibrant and healthy in any space.
Purchase a Top:
- Take a look at your bowl’s top; it’s like a chic lid that keeps water in its place exactly and keeps things tidy.
- Choose the size that fits your bowl best as they come in various sizes.
Select the Appropriate Filter:
- Select a tiny filter for your fish bowl; some examples are box filters, sponge filters, or under gravel filters.
- Because they save space, many people prefer the under-gravel filters.
Upkeep of Filters:
- Maintain your filter by cleaning it or replacing the cartridges regularly.
- To keep things neat, stir the gravel a little bit during water changes if you use under gravel filters.
Stir the Water:
- Use a tiny air or water pump to gently shake your bowl; it will act as if the water has been awakened.
- This gives your fish a comfortable place to live in addition to making it easier to find any extra food or debris.
Changes in Water:
- The most important step of fish bowl care is to change up the routine a little by doing 1/4 water changes every three days, especially if the bowl isn’t performing well as a filter.
- Make an informed decision when selecting a filter to prevent stress in your fish because some can be space-hogging and strong current producers.
Conclusion
Some fish can do well without a filter, and these 8 beautiful species are perfect for low-maintenance small size fish bowls. Aquarists love them because they’re easy to take care of. While they don’t absolutely need pumps and filters, adding these extras can make them even happier.
Check out the above fish bowl care tips to set up your aquarium and create a great home for these cute fish.