If you live in a small place, like an apartment or dorm room, you may want a quiet, yet entertaining pet that doesn’t disrupt the neighbors. It’s for this reason that many people dive into the world of freshwater aquariums; they don’t make much noise, save for the ambient hum of the tank’s filter. While aquarium fish make noise, it’s not enough to cause a disruption. In fact, unless you have a fine-tuned ear, you likely can’t hear the sounds your fish make.
Aquarium Fish Make Very Little Noise
Aquarium fish make noise for many reasons. Rival betta fish may emit a clicking sound to threaten one another. Corydoras catfish, a type of bottom-dweller, may also make a popping sound when they’re excited, stressed, or to get others’ attention. Oscars can make grinding noises with their teeth, and clown loaches make clicking sounds while eating or interacting with others. It’s one of the reasons why aquarists swear that loaches are one of the most interactive marine pets!
Fish Tanks Generally Aren’t Very Loud
An aquarium shouldn’t make much noise. When the filter works properly, it will probably range from 30 to 50 decibels, which ranges from a light whisper to the hum of a refrigerator. Normal conversation, electric toothbrushes, and vacuum cleaners are all louder in comparison. If your fish tank’s filter seems unusually loud, chances are, something’s wrong with it. For example, part of a live plant may have been sucked into the filter and now obstruct the flow of water.
Other reasons for a noisy fish tank filter include:
- There’s not enough water in the fish tank. The water in an aquarium will naturally evaporate over time. If the water level dips too low, this could affect how the water cycles through the filter, causing a rasping or gurgling sound.
- You need a new filter. Nothing lasts forever, and that goes for aquarium filters. You may need to get a new filter or motor, depending on its age.
- The filter’s components have come loose. Filters have multiple components. Take a moment to examine your filter and make sure nothing has come loose.
How to Keep Your Fish Tank Quiet
If big-scale aquariums were loud, nobody would visit them. These facilities employ a number of techniques to ensure a pleasant experience for both the visitors and fish. You can use some of these tips if you’re concerned about your home aquarium being loud.
One tip includes using a carpet, rugs, or another soft flooring to minimize the vibration of filters on standalone fish tanks. Another method includes using sponge filters, which don’t rely on motors to remove debris from the water. Other considerations include ensuring there’s enough water in the tank and investing in newer equipment if you’ve had your filter for a few years.
You may also only stock your tank with fish that don’t emit noise (even though fish don’t make enough noise for most people to hear). Some include tetras, rasboras, and guppies. These are more than quiet fish; they’re also among the best fish for beginner aquarists.
What Aquatic Pets Don’t Make Much Noise?
You can’t go wrong with fish if you’re looking for a quiet pet-owning experience. If you’re looking to go beyond fish, however, here are some other quiet, aquatic pets that don’t require much space:
- Axolotls. These frilly salamanders are increasing in popularity—and for a good reason. Individuals can thrive in 30-gallon tanks, and they are completely silent. Note that while axolotl ownership is rewarding, these exotic pets have nuanced care needs, such as chilled water and live food.
- Pacman frogs. These frogs will croak or growl when they feel threatened. Provide a peaceful habitat for your frog, and they’ll keep your home noise-free.
- Fire-bellied toads. They make the occasional honking or barking noise, but nothing loud.
- Tree frogs. Depending on your noise tolerance, you may enjoy the soft, rhythmic croaking of tree frogs at night or when it gets humid.
If you’re looking to go beyond marine life and delve into reptile-keeping, bearded dragons, leopard geckos, and tortoises don’t make much sound.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aquariums and Noise Levels
You may have these questions when thinking about getting (or maintaining) an aquarium:
- What triggers fish to make noise? Different species of fish make noises for different reasons. These can range from bullying tankmates or responding to someone tapping on the aquarium’s glass.
- Why are my fish gasping at the water’s surface? Fish gasping at the water’s surface aren’t trying to talk or get your attention. There might not be enough oxygen in the water, affecting how your fish “breathe.” Test your water parameters to see if that’s the case. Alternatively, some fish come to the surface because they associate seeing you with being fed.
- What happens if my aquarium’s filter stops working? If your filter is making a lot of noise, it’s probably not doing a great job of keeping the water clean. You have some options if the filter breaks, from getting a sponge filter to seeing if you can fix the issue.
One last question: do aquarium crustaceans make noise? They do! In fact, according to some owners of hermit crabs, these creatures make sounds similar to quacking when they feel threatened.
Bottom Line: Fish Make Noise But Nothing Ear-shattering
No matter what aquatic creature you choose, whether you decide to go with fish or another water-dwelling creature, you likely won’t have neighbors banging on your door and threatening to file a noise complaint. Yet, if you notice that your filter is making a lot of noise, there might be something wrong. If all else fails when trying to pinpoint the cause, getting a new one likely won’t break the bank.
