Setting up a new aquarium requires the right hardware, a clear understanding of the importance of water quality, and knowledge about which fish types swim together in harmony — and which don't. Before you set up your home aquarium, learn all the basics you'll need for a happy, thriving fish family.

• 

  Tropical Fish

  Easy maintenance, ready availability and reasonable pricing are just a few reasons that make these ornamental fish so sought after for home aquariums. The most common tropical fish species include: Mollies, Guppies, Swordtails, Platys, Danios, Barbs, Hatchetfish, Tetras, Gouramies, Freshwater Sharks, Catfish, Bettas, Loaches, Killfish and Plecostomus.

  More on Tropical Fish
• 

  Goldfish

  Known to live up to 25 years, goldfish enjoy a special popularity and have been kept as aquarium pets longer than any other fish. Originally from China, goldfish are not categorized as tropical because they originate from cooler waters, which contain more oxygen than warmer waters. Goldfish are also a popular choice for outdoor ponds. The most common goldfish species include: Common Comet, Bubble Eye, Black Bubble Eye, Pearl Scale, Fantail, Calico Fantail and Black Moor.

  More on Goldfish
• 

  African Cichlid

  African Cichlids are colorful fish originating from three main lakes in Africa: Lake Malawi, Lake Tanganyika and Lake Victoria. Although they are hardy and active, these fish also have special needs. They require a large aquarium with plenty of hiding places and a pH of at least 7.8 or higher. They like hard water and high mineral and carbonate content.

  More on African Cichlids
• 

  Tropical Cichlid

  This freshwater fish comes predominately from South America, though some Tropical Cichlids are natives of Asia and North Africa. They prefer a fresh water environment with plenty of room and thrive best in an aquarium with a pH of neutral (7.0) to slightly acidic (6.8). They also prefer soft water.

  More on Tropical Cichlids