Aquarium Care: 7 Fish and Aquatic Pets That Naturally Clean Tanks
Keeping an aquarium in your home is not only beautiful but also therapeutic. Watching fish glide through the water, shrimp scavenging along the gravel, or snails quietly cleaning glass can bring a sense of peace to your day. But every aquarium owner knows that maintenance is part of the deal. Tanks can get dirty quickly, with algae growth, leftover food, and waste all adding up to cloudy water. Fortunately, some fish and aquatic pets can actually help keep your tank cleaner naturally. With the right choices, you can cut down on scrubbing, improve water quality, and keep your aquatic world healthier for all its residents. In this guide to aquarium care, we’ll explore seven fish and aquatic pets that are natural tank cleaners, plus tips for choosing and caring for them responsibly.
Why Natural Tank Cleaners Are Important for Aquarium Care
Aquarium care is all about balance. Filters, water changes, and cleaning are essential, but having the right mix of fish and aquatic pets can support the process. Natural cleaners eat algae, consume leftover food, and sift through debris, helping to reduce the risk of harmful bacteria or ammonia spikes. They also keep surfaces looking clear, making your aquarium more enjoyable to watch. For new pet owners, adding these natural helpers can be a game-changer. Instead of spending hours cleaning, you’ll have a team of “aquatic janitors” doing part of the work for you. That doesn’t mean they replace regular maintenance, but they definitely lighten the load.
1. Amano Shrimp
Amano shrimp are small but mighty when it comes to tank cleaning. Known for their impressive algae-eating abilities, these little crustaceans are one of the most efficient natural cleaners. They happily munch on different types of algae, including the stubborn green hair algae that many aquarium owners struggle with. Amano shrimp are peaceful, making them a great addition to community tanks. They do best in groups, and their transparent bodies make them fun to watch as they scavenge along rocks and plants. While they don’t reproduce easily in freshwater, they can live for years if cared for properly. Just be sure to provide them with enough food when algae levels are low, since they still need a balanced diet.
2. Nerite Snails
Nerite snails are widely loved for their ability to clean glass and hard surfaces in aquariums. They specialize in eating algae, and unlike some other snails, they don’t reproduce uncontrollably in freshwater tanks. This makes them an excellent choice for aquarium care, especially for beginners who want a low-maintenance helper. Nerite snails come in a variety of patterns, from zebra stripes to spotted shells, adding beauty while they work. They are peaceful and don’t bother other tank mates. However, since they cannot survive long outside water, it’s important to keep your tank covered to prevent escape attempts.
3. Corydoras Catfish
Corydoras catfish, often called “Cory cats,” are bottom-dwelling fish that act like tiny vacuum cleaners. They sift through the substrate, picking up leftover food that would otherwise rot and pollute the water. This helps keep the tank cleaner and reduces ammonia levels. Corydoras are social fish, so it’s best to keep them in groups of at least five. They are peaceful and friendly, making them a great choice for community tanks. While they don’t eat algae like snails or shrimp, their cleaning habits play a huge role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
4. Plecostomus (Bristlenose Pleco)
When most people think of algae eaters, the plecostomus, or pleco, often comes to mind. Not all plecos are suitable for home aquariums, though. Some species grow too large, but the bristlenose pleco stays a manageable size, usually around 4 to 5 inches. Bristlenose plecos are hardy, efficient algae eaters that love to clean the glass, driftwood, and rocks in your tank. They are nocturnal, meaning you’ll often see them working during the evening hours. Unlike some larger plecos, bristlenose plecos won’t outgrow most medium-sized aquariums, making them an ideal choice for home setups.
5. Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus catfish, or “Otos,” are another fantastic option for algae control. These small, schooling fish are gentle cleaners that thrive in planted tanks. They’re especially good at eating soft algae that forms on leaves, helping to keep plants healthy and attractive. Otocinclus are social fish and should be kept in groups, which also helps them feel safe. They do require stable water conditions, so they’re better suited for aquarists who have some experience with tank care. If you’re committed to maintaining good water quality, Otos can be an excellent natural cleaning team.
6. Cherry Shrimp
Cherry shrimp are not only helpful cleaners but also vibrant, colorful additions to an aquarium. They love to graze on biofilm, algae, and tiny particles of uneaten food. These shrimp are easy to breed in freshwater, so their populations can grow naturally, providing an ongoing cleaning crew. Because of their small size, they are best kept in tanks without large, aggressive fish that might see them as a snack. Cherry shrimp add constant activity to a tank, and their bright red coloration makes them visually striking.
7. Siamese Algae Eater
The Siamese algae eater is one of the most hardworking fish you can add to your tank. Unlike some species that ignore certain types of algae, this fish eats a wide variety, including stubborn black beard algae. They’re peaceful, active, and can live harmoniously in community tanks. Siamese algae eaters are best kept in groups, and they require plenty of swimming space. They also appreciate plants and hiding spots. With their energy and appetite for algae, they’re a solid choice for any aquarist looking for a reliable cleaning companion.
Tips for Choosing the Right Natural Cleaners
Not every cleaner is right for every tank. Before adding any of these pets, consider the size of your tank, the type of fish you already have, and your overall goals. For smaller tanks, shrimp and snails are usually better choices, while larger tanks can handle plecos or groups of Siamese algae eaters. Always research compatibility to ensure peaceful cohabitation. Remember that these natural cleaners still need supplemental feeding, especially when algae or food scraps are limited. A balanced diet ensures they stay healthy and continue to do their cleaning job effectively.
Best Practices for Aquarium Care
Even with a cleaning crew, aquarium care requires routine maintenance. Here are some best practices:
- Perform regular water changes, usually about 20–30% weekly.
- Test water parameters to ensure safe conditions for all tank residents.
- Avoid overfeeding fish, since leftover food is a leading cause of dirty tanks.
- Keep filters clean but avoid washing them with tap water, which can kill beneficial bacteria.
- Provide hiding spots and natural decor like plants or driftwood for stress reduction.
By combining natural cleaners with these maintenance steps, you’ll create a healthy, thriving aquatic environment.
FAQs About Aquarium Care and Natural Tank Cleaners
Q1: Can natural cleaners replace regular tank cleaning?
No. While natural cleaners help reduce algae and waste, you’ll still need to perform water changes and clean the filter regularly. They complement your care routine, not replace it.
Q2: Will snails overrun my aquarium?
It depends on the species. Nerite snails, for example, don’t reproduce in freshwater, so they won’t overpopulate. Other snails, like pond snails, can multiply quickly if food is abundant.
Q3: Can I keep shrimp and fish together?
Yes, but it depends on the type of fish. Peaceful community fish usually do well with shrimp, but aggressive or larger fish may see shrimp as food.
Q4: Are plecos good for small aquariums?
Not all plecos. Large species like common plecos grow too big for most tanks. Bristlenose plecos are a better option for medium-sized home aquariums.
Q5: Do algae eaters need extra food?
Yes. While they eat algae, they also need supplemental food such as algae wafers, blanched vegetables, or sinking pellets to stay healthy.
Q6: How many natural cleaners should I add?
It depends on your tank size and setup. A few shrimp or snails may be enough for a small tank, while larger tanks benefit from a mix of algae eaters, shrimp, and bottom feeders.
Q7: Are these cleaners safe for planted tanks?
Most of them are. Otocinclus, Amano shrimp, and nerite snails are especially plant-safe, while Siamese algae eaters help keep plants free of algae.
Image Source: Canva
