The lifespan of aquarium fish
Aquarium fish should live anywhere from three to seven years, or longer. Healthy and happy fish live long. The majority of common tropical fish live for an average of three to five years, while goldfish are among those living the longest, potentially up to 20 years. If provided proper feeding and a clean, healthy environment, these fish can live up to 15 years.
Koi, who were cousins of goldfish, can live up to 40 years. You can increase the lifespan of a tropical fish by taking care of some parameters.
Some environmental factors that determine fish lifespan are:-
- Water Chemistry- Keep a checklist and monitor factors such as pH levels, temperature, and ammonia in your tank.
- Tank mates- Always choose the right tank mates for your aquarium.
There are many factors that play a role in the lifespan of an aquarium fish. Temperature, light, carbon dioxide, water quality, and food are some of the important factors which determine fish lifespan.
| Popular pet fish | Average lifespan |
|---|---|
| Guppy | 1-2 years |
| Betta | 2-3 years |
| Molly| platy | swordtail | 3-5 years |
| Clown| weather loach | 10-15 years |
| Goldfish | 20 to 40 years |
In general, the max life expectancy of saltwater fish kept as a pet is around 20 years. Freshwater fish tend to live for about 15 years max.
Freshwater aquarium fish is often recommended for those people who are starting with their first aquarium. In general, freshwater tanks are easier to maintain and present Fewer risks. Also, freshwater tanks are less expensive than saltwater environments. A freshwater tank can be glass or acrylic of any size.
Saltwater aquariums, however, are an investment of money and time. More equipment is needed for a marine set-up and it is significantly pricier, saltwater livestock is considerably higher in cost than freshwater.
How to increase the lifespan of fish
- Feed high protein pellets make sure you're throwing in some vegetable matter as well and good pellets are sick lettuce excel. They have a good omnivore diet.
- Make sure the food you purchase is appropriate for your fish species. Fish food usually comes in flake form, as pellets, or freeze-dried.
- Used good water filtration.
- Tropical fish require heating elements in their habitats, but there are some freshwater fish (like goldfish) that prefer cooler temperatures and may not need a heater.
The following table has the list of fish that has the shortest lifespan.
| Fish | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Adolfo's Cory | 5 years |
| Bandit Cory | 5 years |
| Betta | 2-5 years |
| Black neon tetra | 5 years |
The following table has the list of fish that has the longest lifespan.
| Fish | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Angelfish | 10+ years |
| Apistogramma | 5-10 years |
| Clown loach | 15+ years |
| Dojo Loach | 10 years |
| Discus | 10-18 years |
The lifespan of Saltwater Fish in general
Saltwater fish tend to be more difficult to keep in captivity but if you provide them with the best possible environment, perfect water quality, excellent diet, and appropriate tank size. Some saltwater species live 2- 4 years like butterflyfish, wrasses, and triggerfish. And some are over 10 years old like lionfish, clownfish, tangs, etc. Saltwater will generally cost more.
The lifespan of Freshwater Fish in general
Freshwater fish live for around 3-5 years with proper care and feeding. Some freshwater fish are like neon tetras, Kissing gourami fish live for 10 years. The most popular freshwater fish is goldfish. It provided proper feeding and a clean, healthy environment these fish can live up to 15 years.