Choosing the right tank mates is crucial for a potential new invertebrate.

If you’re into aquatic life and are starting with fresh water, your tanks inhabitants don’t have to be limited to fish.

There are many invertebrates that can add color and life to any tank.

Invertebrates, animals without backbones, represent more than 95 percent of the known species on Earth.

The soap dish crab, fresh water fiddler crab and red claw shrimp are favorites of many invertebrate enthusiasts.

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Choosing the right tank mates is crucial for a potential new invertebrate.

Avoid aggressive carnivorous fish like siclets, catfish or barbs, since your new additions might become a pricey, inadvertent appetizer.

Also, remember to slowly acclimate any new additions for a smooth transition to your tank.

All of these invertebrates are fun to watch, but they are leery of predators and may spend most of their time hiding under a rock.

	The soap dish crab, fresh water fiddler crab, and red claw shrimp are favorites of many invertebrate enthusiasts.

The best bet for peaking in on these creatures is late at night with a black light.

Move slowly toward the tank or the invertebrates might dart back under a rock.