The fish that should not be together in a tank are those that have incompatible water parameters, different dietary needs, different swimming levels, or aggressive and territorial behaviors. These factors can cause stress, disease, injury, or death to the fish that are not well-suited for the tank environment. In this article, we will explore some of the common types of fish that should not be kept together, and how to choose compatible fish for your aquarium.
One of the most important aspects of fish compatibility is the water parameters, such as temperature, pH, hardness, and salinity. Different fish have different preferences and tolerances for these conditions, and keeping fish that require different water parameters can lead to health problems and stress. For example, goldfish are cold-water fish that prefer temperatures between 65°F and 75°F, while most tropical fish need warmer water between 75°F and 85°F. Similarly, some fish prefer acidic water, while others prefer alkaline water. Mixing fish that have different water requirements can result in poor growth, reduced immunity, and increased susceptibility to diseases.
To avoid this problem, you should research the water parameters that your fish need before buying them, and test your water regularly with a kit or a strip. You should also perform regular water changes and use filters, heaters, and other equipment to maintain the optimal water quality for your fish. You should only keep fish that have similar or compatible water parameters, and avoid fish that have drastically different or opposite requirements.
Another factor that affects fish compatibility is the dietary needs of the fish. Different fish have different food preferences and feeding habits, and keeping fish that have incompatible diets can cause malnutrition, overfeeding, or underfeeding. For example, some fish are herbivores that graze on algae and plants, while others are carnivores that hunt for live prey. Some fish are omnivores that eat both plant and animal matter, while others are specialized feeders that require specific foods. Some fish are surface feeders that eat from the top of the water, while others are bottom feeders that scavenge from the substrate.
To avoid this problem, you should research the dietary needs of your fish before buying them, and provide them with a varied and balanced diet that meets their nutritional requirements. You should also observe your fish during feeding time, and make sure that all of them get enough food without competing or fighting. You should only keep fish that have similar or compatible dietary needs, and avoid fish that have drastically different or opposite diets.
Swimming Levels
Another factor that affects fish compatibility is the swimming levels of the fish. Different fish have different preferences and behaviors for the areas of the tank that they occupy, and keeping fish that have incompatible swimming levels can cause crowding, stress, or aggression. For example, some fish are top dwellers that swim near the surface of the water, while others are middle dwellers that swim in the middle of the tank. Some fish are bottom dwellers that stay close to the substrate, while others are cave dwellers that hide in rocks and crevices.
To avoid this problem, you should research the swimming levels of your fish before buying them, and provide them with enough space and suitable decorations for their preferred areas. You should also monitor your fish for signs of stress or aggression, and rearrange or remove any items that cause conflict or territoriality. You should only keep fish that have similar or compatible swimming levels, and avoid fish that have drastically different or opposite swimming levels.
Aggressive and Territorial Behaviors
Another factor that affects fish compatibility is the aggressive and territorial behaviors of the fish. Different fish have different personalities and temperaments, and keeping fish that have incompatible behaviors can cause bullying, fighting, or injury. For example, some fish are peaceful and sociable, while others are aggressive and solitary. Some fish are schooling and shoaling, while others are loners and wanderers. Some fish are fin nippers and chasers, while others are biters and attackers.
To avoid this problem, you should research the behaviors of your fish before buying them, and provide them with enough tank mates and hiding places for their social needs. You should also avoid keeping fish that are known to be aggressive or territorial, such as cichlids, sharks, loaches, knife fish, mormyrids, and other predatory fish. You should only keep fish that have similar or compatible behaviors, and avoid fish that have drastically different or opposite behaviors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the fish that should not be together in a tank are those that have incompatible water parameters, different dietary needs, different swimming levels, or aggressive and territorial behaviors. These factors can cause stress, disease, injury, or death to the fish that are not well-suited for the tank environment. To choose compatible fish for your aquarium, you should research the characteristics and requirements of your fish before buying them, and provide them with the best possible conditions and care for their well-being. By doing so, you can enjoy a peaceful and harmonious community fish tank.
