A brief article from one of our younger members about beginner fish.

Coldwater: there isn't a very wide section of coldwater fish available especially not in a small tank. If you have a tank of 8+ gallons (35 litres) you can keep one fancy goldfish i.e oranda fantail. If you have less than this your only real option is white cloud mountain minnows. These may sound dull but really have a very pretty colouration, are very cheap and are as tough as old boots.

Tropical: in tropical there is a much wider choice of fish and it would be impossible for me to name all the good species for beginners. so i will give a rough idea... Many species of tetra are great for beginners but avoid neon tetras and cardinals until you have a mature setup. Barbs are also good but best kept in groups as they do tend to nip fins if they are on their own. Corydoras catfish are the best fish for scavenging uneaten food and they are also fairly attractive and have great character. Some species of plecsotomus (I say some as many grow to the 50cm mark and destroy plants so its best to stick with smaller species.)

Finally always always always research anything before you buy it also I accept that there may be other good beginner fish I have missed out but if in dobut check them out