Image of fish swimming near underwater flora under blue and red light

Freshwater Fish

There are several freshwater fish to choose from when setting up your aquarium, but it is best to consult with a &ldquot;Pexpert&rdquot; to ensure your fish will get along! No matter the species, ensure your fish are suited for a freshwater environment by investing in a water testing kit. Follow these general water chemistry guidelines to ensure your fish will adapt well to your aquarium and avoid ingesting toxins that can harm or kill your fish:

  • pH Level: 6.8–7.6 (7.0 is considered neutral)
  • Ammonia: any level above zero is harmful to fish
  • Nitrates: 5 to 10 ppm
  • Nitrites: less than 0.5 ppm

Saltwater Fish

Saltwater fish also offer several options when it comes to choosing among species for your aquarium. As with freshwater fish, consult with a “Pexpert” to ensure your fish will get along are suited for a saltwater environment. Following these general guidelines to avoid dangerous water conditions and ensure the appropriate salinity level for your fishies:

  • Salinity: 1.020–1.028 sg
  • pH Level: 7.6–8.4 (7.0 is considered neutral)
  • Ammonia: any level above 0.1 ppm requires attention
  • Nitrates: 10 to 40 ppm
  • Nitrites: less than 0.2 ppm

For more information on making your tap water safe for your fish, please visit: http://www.theaquariumwiki.org/wiki/How_to_make_tap_water_safe_for_fish http://fishbase.org/home.html


Looking for your new best friend? The following organizations can help you find and adopt the perfect companion:

We are also happy to help you navigate the adoption process! We will guide you through each step in the process from determining which type of pet is best suited for your family and home environment, to completing the necessary paperwork, to bringing your new loved one home. Please fill out our contact form to request a consultation. We will contact you within 48 hours to schedule a consultation. All fields are required.