1. General Characteristics of Social Fish

• They prefer to live with multiple individuals of the same species.

• The larger the group size, the safer and more comfortable they feel.

• They display schooling behavior, feeding together, and coordinated movements.

• When kept alone, they may experience stress, color fading, and behavioral problems.

2. Social Species That Should Be Kept in Groups

• Neon Tetra: Should be kept in groups of at least 6.

• Cardinal Tetra: Thrive and maintain their colors best when kept in schools.

• Corydoras (Catfish): Being social in nature, they should be kept with at least 4–6 individuals.

• Zebra Danio: Active and energetic, they feel comfortable in groups.

• Guppy: Suitable for community tanks thanks to their social temperament.

• Rasbora: Peaceful schooling fish that do best in groups of 6 or more.

• Mollies, Platies, Swordtails: Enjoy living socially in community aquariums.

3. Advantages of Group Living

• Fish exhibit more confident and active behaviors.

• Stress levels decrease, boosting resistance against diseases.

• Schooling offers a visually pleasing effect for observers.

• Aggression is reduced, and competition is more evenly balanced.

4. Key Considerations for Feeding Social Fish

• Group size should be adequate, ideally 6 or more individuals together.

• Provide enough swimming space and hiding spots.

• Choose species with compatible temperaments and similar pH/temperature requirements.

• Avoid housing them with aggressive fish.

Conclusion
Social fish species not only develop healthier in group settings but also bring vibrancy and harmony to the aquarium. By maintaining proper group dynamics and selecting compatible species, you can create a peaceful and balanced environment. Keeping inherently social fish alone can lead to stress and behavioral issues.