Turtles are among the most popular pets, but there are many different kinds, and they require different habitats. The most popular aquatic/semi-aquatic pet turtle is the red-eared slider, which also has the distinction of being the turtle species whose name sounds the most like a skateboarding trick. They're not overly difficult to care for, but their aquarium will require vigilant maintenance. Red-eared sliders are semi-aquatic, so while most of the tank should contain frequently changed, fresh, clean water, you will also need to provide a "basking" area for the turtle to warm itself under a heat lamp. Share This on Facebook? 12 Oldest Animal Species on EarthA lot of us have made the false assumption that fish are an easy, low-commitment, "starter" pet — only to have the illusion shattered by the death of a beloved little swimmer. Keeping a pet fish from an early demise and the big flush seems impossible, but the source of your heartache could all come down to the species you have in your tank.

While some fish species require more care than others, there are several types that are remarkably low-maintenance. What makes a fish easy? As a fish owner, I can tell you there’s a lot more that goes into the care of fish than you might think. Life happens, you get busy and those fun little fish tend to take the back burner. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance fish, choose one that’s hardy. Look for a fish that can handle a little overfeeding (because how much is a "pinch," really?) or a little underfeeding (oops). You’ll also want a fish that can stand less-than-frequent water changes, because who has time for that? Finally, you’re going to want a fish that’s peaceful. Take my word on that one — after spending all day keeping my children from killing each other, the last thing I want to do is break up a fish fight. Not to worry — we won’t leave you high and dry in the fish aisle. We went straight to the experts to find out which fish are the most no-fuss.

These are the simplest fish to keep. Image: KidStock/Brand X Pictures/Getty imagesAccording to Nick Saint-Erne, D.V.M., Certified Aquatic Veterinarian, resident PetSmart veterinarian, the easiest and most popular starter fish is the Betta. They’re the only fish that don’t require a filter or heater and can be kept in small bowls. tips for buying aquariumThe only real maintenance you’ll face with these guys is a 25 percent water change once a week.medium fish tanks for sale More: How to grow a lily in your fish bowlfish tank shop in reading Bettas have gotten a bad rep, as their nickname, "the fighting fish" suggests. best fish tank lights

While it’s true you can’t house more than one male betta in the same tank, that doesn’t mean they have to live solitary lives. "They can be kept with other similar-sized fish of different species in a larger aquarium," says Saint-Erne. Updated by Sarah Long on 1/20/17Here are some pets that can live in a 5- or 10-gallon aquarium.fish tank sizes hexagonAlso known as Siamese fighting fish, these can live in a five-gallon tank. cheap fish tanks belfastBettas come in a variety of colors and are very interesting to watch. Males need to be housed alone because of their territorial nature, but females, when introduced properly, can live together in a bigger sorority tank.Fun Fact: When happy, they build bubble nests.These underwater creatures do best when housed alone and need at least 10 gallons of water in their tank.

Axolotls are very hardy and easy to care for. Check your local laws, as it is illegal to own these Mexican walking fish in some areas.Fun Fact: These pets can’t be handled because they don’t have any bones.These little nocturnal crabs can be kept in a 5- to 10-gallon tank, depending on the number and size.Two or three very small crabs can be kept in a five-gallon tnak, but once they start to get bigger or you increase the size of the colony, they’ll need more space. Hermit crabs do prefer to live with friends.Fun Fact: If they have a damaged or broken leg, it can sometimes repair itself when they molt.These shrimp do best in a 10-gallon tank; keeping the water conditions stable is key to their survival.These shrimp are relatively easy to keep with 20 percent water changes monthly, as long as you keep the temperature and pH level stable.Fun Fact: You can also keep fish in their tank, but make sure the fish are small, because bigger fish will snack on the shrimp. Good tank mates are guppies, tetras, and smaller barbs.

These feisty crabs are for more experienced crab keepers.Halloween crabs enjoy hiding and are very territorial. They are omnivores and eat things like brine shrimp, algae, and some fruits and vegetables. Their tank needs to have structures for them to climb on to get out of the water.Fun Fact: The Halloween crab is also known as the moon crab.These fun little catfish are hilarious to watch. These little catfish, also called Cory cats, are very beneficial to any fish tank.These bottom-dwelling scavengers are constantly scouring for missed food and other debris, which helps keep the tank clean. They are mischievous scavengers and peaceful, which makes them great tank mates.Fun Fact: These fish are also called armored catfish, because of the hard plates that cover and protect their body.These silly little frogs spend most of their lives underwater, but have lungs instead of gills, so they do need access to the surface, which is why a 5- or 10-gallon tank is best.One of the more low maintenance amphibians, dwarf frogs are very active and spend most of their time near the bottom of the tank scavenging.

They are peaceful tank mates, but have been known to snack on smaller fish.Fun Fact: These frogs have no tongue or teeth, and use their front legs to shove food into their mouths.These frogs are mainly inactive, and can be kept in a 5- or 10-gallon space. They need to be kept alone due to cannibalistic tendencies.These frogs can also be taught a feeding schedule. If you consistently feed them at the same time, they will get so used to the routine that they will wait for their meal if you happen to be late.Fun Fact: They are carnivores and eat their food by ambush, and need their food to be alive and moving to be able to see it.These easy-to-care-for toads are great for beginners and fun to watch. They do best in a habitat that is half land and half water and do well in groups of two or three.Fire belly toads get their name from their bright stomach, a sign to predators that they are mildly toxic. While not harmful to humans, you should wash thoroughly after any handling.Fun Fact: These toads make noise by inhaling rather than exhaling which makes for a higher pitched sound.