Many species are sociable and do well in a community tank. These fish are usually small and live and feed near the surface. The toothcarps consist of the egg layers that can be rare and difficult for beginners and the live bearers that are popular aquarium species such as guppies, mollies, swordtails, and platys. They are generally small, hardy, peaceful fish that are well suited to community aquariums with the exception of some of the aggressive males of the fighting fish, paradise fish, and both sexes of the adult combtails. These fish tend to have an iridescent quality to their skin that makes them change colors as they move through the light.
Most species are small, peaceful, and colorful, and make good additions to a community tank.
The beginning aquarium owners will be faced with a variety of decisions. If they start with researching the individual fish and their requirements and then build their tank around the needs of the fish, they will be rewarded with a healthy, beautiful aquarium that will provide countless hours of enjoyment. Dr. Burgess s Mini Atlas of Marine Aquarium Fishes. Inc. All rights reserved.