How to Keep Fish from Jumping Out of a Fish Tank

Keep fish in a fish tank in your home is a great decision for those who want an easy to care for pet that makes limited demands on your attention and time. Of course, there are important things to learn before getting a fish tank: health concerns, feeding, water parameters, and fish diseases. One thing many new aquarists do not consider, however, is how to keep their fish safe by preventing them from jumping out of the fish tank.

No one wants to come home from work to find their pet fish gasping on the hardwood. No one wants to wonder where their fish went and find them a month later dried to a husk behind the cabinet. So, how do you keep fish from jumping out of a fish tank?

Keep Fish From Jumping out of a Fish Tank - Types of Fish

There are certain types of popular aquarium fish that jump out of fish tanks more than others. Any fish that is torpedo shapes, like comet goldfish, have more of a propensity for jumping. Types of fish that are natural insect eaters also jump a lot. The hatchetfish is famous for flying out of fish tanks as well.

If you want to keep fish from jumping out of the fish tank, choose fish that are less likely to do this.

Keep Fish From Jumping out of a Fish Tank - Tank Lids and Covers

The easiest way of keeping fish from jumping out of fish tanks is to buy an aquarium lid or cover that fits well on your fish tank. Most modern fish tanks come with plastic lids or hoods where the lighting fixture sits. These often have holes for the heater cord and filter to sit in. Make sure these holes are small to discourage jumping fish.

You can also purchase glass cover lids that fit exactly in your fish tank. These go under the plastic hood assemblies and make it impossible for the fish to jump. You can also use screens or netting to stop jumping fish.

Keep Fish From Jumping out of a Fish Tank - Obstacles

If you do not want a lid for your fish tank, you can still keep fish from jumping out of a fish tank by using obstacles. Floating plants can reduce this, as can decor items that take up horizontal space inside the tank. These items will prevent the fish from building enough speed for a jump out of the fish tank. Keep your fish safe and in the tank and you can enjoy them for years.