🐟 15 Best Fish for a Beginner’s Tank (2026)

The absolute best fish for a beginner’s tank are hardy, social species like Platies, Zebra Danios, and Corydoras Catfish that forgive minor mistakes and thrive in stable, cycled water. When you ask, “What are the best fish for a beginner’s tank?”, the answer isn’t just about finding a colorful pet; it’s about choosing a biological partner that helps you master the nitrogen cycle without losing your first school of fish.

We once watched a new hobbyist rush to fill a 5-gallon bowl with ten Neon Tetras, only to lose them all in 48 hours because the water was toxic. That heartbreak is avoidable if you start with the right species and the right mindset. Did you know that over 60% of new aquariums fail within the first three months, usually due to overstocking or skipping the crucial cycling process?

By choosing the 15 resilient species listed below, you bypass the common pitfalls that turn a dream hobby into a fish graveyard. These fish are tough enough to handle the learning curve but beautiful enough to make your tank a showstoper.

Key Takeaways

  • Start with hardy, social species: Fish like Platies, Zebra Danios, and Corydoras are forgiving of beginner errors and thrive in groups.
  • Patience is non-negotiable: You must cycle your tank for 4–6 weeks before adding any fish to establish beneficial bacteria.
  • Size matters for stability: A 20-gallon tank offers more stable water parameters than a tiny 5-gallon bowl, making it easier for beginners to maintain.
  • Avoid “beginer traps”: Ster clear of Common Plecos, Goldfish, and aggressive Tiger Barbs that outgrow tanks or destroy community harmony.
  • Observe daily: Spend a few minutes watching your fish to catch early signs of stress or illness before they become fatal.

Table of Contents


⚡ļø Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive into the deep end of the aquarium hobby, let’s hit the pause button on the “buy the biggest tank you can find” impulse. Here are the non-negotiable truths that separate the thriving tanks from the “fish graveyard” stories we’ve all heard:

  • The Nitrogen Cycle is King: You cannot just add fish to water and hope for the best. Your tank needs to cycle first to establish beneficial bacteria. Skipping this is the #1 reason beginners lose fish. Learn more about the nitrogen cycle here.
  • Size Matters (But Not How You Think): A 10-gallon tank is often better for a beginner than a 5-gallon. Why? Smaller volumes are easier to manage, but they also require more frequent water changes. A 20-gallon “Long” is the sweet spot for stability and fish variety.
  • Schooling is Safety: Never buy a single Neon Tetra. They are social creatures that get stressed and sick when lonely. Buy in groups of 6 or more.
  • Livebearers = Baby Boom: Fish like Platies and Guppies breed like rabbits. If you don’t want a tank full of fry, stick to male-only groups or be prepared to rehome babies.
  • The “Bowl” Myth: Beta fish do not belong in bowls. They need filtered, heated water just like any other tropical fish.

Pro Tip: Before you buy a single fish, spend two weeks cycling your tank with a source of ammonia (like fish food or pure ammonia) to grow your bacterial colony. It’s the difference between a miracle and a mess.

📜 A Brief History of the Beginner’s Aquarium: From Roman Ponds to Nano Tanks


Video: The Secret History of the Aquarium: From Roman Ponds to a High-Tech Home Ecosystem.








You might think the idea of keeping fish in a glass box is a modern invention, but humans have been obsessed with aquatic life for millennia. The Romans kept goldfish in marble ponds, and the Chinese were breeding koi and goldfish as early as the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD) for their vibrant colors.

However, the beginer’s aquarium as we know it is a relatively recent phenomenon. It wasn’t until the 19th century, with the invention of the glass aquarium and the discovery of the nitrogen cycle by scientists like Robert Warington, that keeping fish became a viable hobby for the masses.

In the 1950s and 60s, the “fish bowl” era peaked, often leading to tragic results for the fish due to lack of filtration and oxygen. Fast forward today, and we have nano tanks, advanced LED lighting, and biological filters that make keeping a thriving ecosystem easier than ever. The shift from “keeping fish alive” to “creating a living art piece” has transformed the hobby.

At Aquarium Musicā„¢, we believe understanding this history helps us appreciate why modern equipment is so crucial. We’ve moved from guessing to science. If you want to see how far we’ve come, check out our guide on Aquarium Setup to see the evolution of gear.

🧠 The Newbie’s Mindset: Why “Easy” Doesn’t Mean “Ignore It”


Video: Top 9 Beginner Fish for your aquarium! Hardy, colourful and easy to keep!








There is a dangerous myth floating around the internet: “These fish are so hardy, you can ignore them, and they’ll be fine.” Let’s be clear: No fish is truly “ignore-able.”

When we say a fish is “beginer-friendly,” we mean they are forgiving of minor mistakes, not that they thrive on neglect. A hardy fish like a Zebra Danio might survive a slight temperature fluctuation that would kill a delicate Discus, but it won’t survive weeks of dirty water or starvation.

The Golden Rule of the Newbie:

  • Test Your Water: Get a liquid test kit (like API Freshwater Master Test Kit). Strips are okay for a quick check, but liquids tell the real story.
  • Patience is a Virtue: Don’t rush to add fish. Wait for the cycle to complete.
  • Observe Daily: Spend 5 minutes a day just watching. Are they eating? Are they hiding? Is their color bright? These are your early warning signs.

We’ve seen too many beginners buy a tank, add 10 fish on day one, and wonder why they all die by day three. It’s not the fish’s fault; it’s the biological load. Start slow, add fish gradually, and let your tank breathe.

🐟 The Ultimate List of 15 Best Beginner Freshwater Fish for Your First Tank


Video: The Most Amazing Fish Combos For A 10 Gallon Aquarium.








Ready to meet the stars of the show? We’ve curated a list of 15 species that are tough, beautiful, and perfect for your first adventure. We’ve included everything from the classic Neon Tetra to the quirky Kuhli Loach.

1. The Unbeatable Platy: A Colorful, Livebearing Hero

Scientific Name: Xiphophorus maculatus
Why they rock: Platies are the “Swiss Army Knife” of freshwater fish. They come in every color imaginable—red, yellow, blue, sunset, and even Mickey Mouse patterns. They are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry, which is a magical experience for beginners.

  • Pros: Extremely hardy, peaceful, eats almost anything, breeds easily (if you want to try your hand at breeding).
  • Cons: Can overpopulate if you keep males and females together.
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Great with Tetras, Corydoras, and Guppies.

2. The Hardy Molly: Perfect for Brackish or Freshwater Adventures

Scientific Name: Poecilia sphenops
Why they rock: Mollies are active swimmers that love to graze on algae. They are slightly more sensitive to water quality than Platies but are still very forgiving.

  • Pros: Active, great algae eaters, available in many varieties (Baloon, Sailfin, Dalmatian).
  • Cons: They produce a lot of waste; they prefer harder, slightly alkaline water.
  • Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum (they grow larger than Platies).
  • Compatibility: Good with other livebearers and robust tetras.

3. The Swordtail: Big Personality in a Small Package

Scientific Name: Xiphophorus hellerii
Why they rock: Named for the “sword” on the male’s tail, these fish are energetic and colorful. They are closely related to Platies but tend to be a bit more active.

  • Pros: Hardy, colorful, easy to breed.
  • Cons: Males can be aggressive toward each other; need plenty of swimming space.
  • Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Best with other livebearers or fast-swimming tetras.

4. The Corydoras Catfish: Your Tank’s Dedicated Janitor

Scientific Name: Corydoras spp.
Why they rock: These little armored catfish are the ultimate bottom dwellers. They sift through the substrate looking for food, keeping your tank clean. They are social and must be kept in groups.

  • Pros: Peaceful, entertaining behavior, great for cleaning up leftovers.
  • Cons: Must be kept in groups of 6+; sensitive to rough substrate (use sand).
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum for a small group.
  • Compatibility: Perfect for community tanks; never keep alone.

5. The Neon Tetra: The Classic Schooling Star

Scientific Name: Paracheirodon inesi
Why they rock: You can’t talk about beginner fish without mentioning the Neon. Their iridescent blue and red stripes are iconic. They are peaceful and look stunning in a school.

  • Pros: Beautiful, peaceful, relatively inexpensive.
  • Cons: Sensitive to poor water quality; must be kept in schools of 6+.
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Excellent with other small, peaceful fish.

6. The Harlequin Rasbora: A Peaceful Schooling Alternative

Scientific Name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha
Why they rock: If Neons are too finicky for you, try Harlequins. They have a distinctive black triangle on their side and are slightly hardier. They form tight schools that look mesmerizing.

  • Pros: Hardy, peaceful, great color contrast.
  • Cons: Need a school of 6+ to feel secure.
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Great with Tetras, Corydoras, and small livebearers.

7. The Beta Fish: The Soloist with a Big Attitude

Scientific Name: Betta splendens
Why they rock: The Beta is the most popular fish for a reason. They are interactive, colorful, and can live in smaller tanks (10+ gallons is ideal).

  • Pros: Stunning colors, interactive, can be kept alone.
  • Cons: Males cannot be kept together; can be aggressive toward other long-finned fish.
  • Tank Size: 5 gallons absolute minimum (10+ recommended).
  • Compatibility: Best kept alone or with very peaceful tank mates like Corydoras.

8. The White Cloud Mountain Minow: The Coldwater Champion

Scientific Name: Tanichthys albonubes
Why they rock: These fish are unique because they don’t need a heater! They thrive in cooler water (60-72°F), making them perfect for unheated tanks or rooms with stable temperatures.

  • Pros: No heater needed, hardy, peaceful, beautiful red fins.
  • Cons: Not suitable for tropical tanks (too cold); need a school.
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Great with other coldwater fish or hardy tetras.

9. The Dwarf Gourami: A Vibrant, Shy Community Member

Scientific Name: Trichogaster lalius
Why they rock: These fish are smaller and generally more peaceful than their larger cousins. They have modified fins that look like feelers and are fascinating to watch.

  • Pros: Beautiful colors, peaceful, interesting behavior.
  • Cons: Can be shy; some strains are prone to disease (Iridovirus).
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Good with peaceful community fish; avoid aggressive tank mates.

10. The Endler’s Livebearer: The Tiny, Fast-Moving Sparkle

Scientific Name: Poecilia wingei
Why they rock: Often called “wild guppies,” Endlers are smaller, faster, and more colorful than standard guppies. They are incredibly hardy and active.

  • Pros: Hardy, colorful, active, breed easily.
  • Cons: Can outbred guppies if mixed; need a school.
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Great with other small livebearers and tetras.

1. The Zebra Danio: The Energetic Surface Dancer

Scientific Name: Danio rerio
Why they rock: These fish are the “athletes” of the aquarium world. They are fast, hardy, and love to swim near the surface. They are also one of the few fish that can survive in cooler water.

  • Pros: Extremely hardy, active, easy to breed.
  • Cons: Can jump (need a tight lid); may nip slow swimmers.
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Good with other active fish; avoid slow, long-finned fish.

12. The Cherry Barb: A Peaceful Red Gem for Community Tanks

Scientific Name: Puntius titeya
Why they rock: Males turn a brilliant red when they are happy and healthy. They are peaceful, schooling fish that add a splash of color to any tank.

  • Pros: Peaceful, beautiful color, hardy.
  • Cons: Need a school of 6+; males can be slightly territorial.
  • Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Excellent with Tetras, Rasboras, and Corydoras.

13. The Otocinclus Catfish: The Algae-Eating Specialist

Scientific Name: Otocinclus spp.
Why they rock: These tiny catfish are the best algae eaters for small tanks. They are peaceful and spend their days grazing on algae.

  • Pros: Excellent algae control, peaceful, small size.
  • Cons: Sensitive to water quality; need a school of 6+; need algae or vegie wafers.
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Perfect for planted tanks with other peaceful fish.

14. The Kuhli Loach: The Eel-Like Night Watchman

Scientific Name: Pangio kuhli
Why they rock: These fish look like tiny els and are nocturnal. They are shy and love to hide in caves and plants, but they are entertaining to watch when they come out at night.

  • Pros: Unique appearance, peaceful, great for cleaning up.
  • Cons: Nocturnal (hard to see during the day); need a school of 6+; sensitive to rough substrate.
  • Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Good with peaceful community fish; avoid aggressive tank mates.

15. The Sparkling Gourami: A Micro-Gourami for Nano Tanks

Scientific Name: Trichopsis pumila
Why they rock: These are tiny, peaceful gouramis that are perfect for nano tanks. They are known for their “purring” sound and beautiful iridescent scales.

  • Pros: Small, peaceful, beautiful, interesting behavior.
  • Cons: Sensitive to water quality; need a school.
  • Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum.
  • Compatibility: Great for nano tanks with other small, peaceful fish.

🚫 Fish to Avoid: The “Beginer Traps” That Sink New Hobbies


Video: Top 10 Aquarium Fish For Beginners! Your First Aquarium!








Not all fish are created equal. Some species are sold as “beginer fish” but are actually nightmares for new hobbyists. Here are the ones you should avoid at all costs:

  • Common Plecos: They grow to 18+ inches and produce massive amounts of waste. They will outgrow your tank in a year. Stick to Bristlenose Plecos if you want an algae eater.
  • Goldfish (Fancy or Common): They are coldwater fish that produce huge amounts of waste and grow very large. They are not suitable for small tropical tanks.
  • Tiger Barbs: They are notorious fin nippers. If you have long-finned fish like Bettas or Angelfish, Tiger Barbs will destroy them.
  • Discus: They are sensitive to water parameters and require pristine water. Not for beginners.
  • Oscars: They are “puppy fish” but grow to 14 inches and are very aggressive. They need huge tanks.

Why do these fish get recommended? Often, pet stores recommend them because they are cheap and hardy in the short term, but they don’t consider the long-term care requirements. Always do your research before buying!

🏠 Setting the Stage: Tank Size, Cycling, and Water Parameters for Success


Video: Buying EVERYTHING You Need for an AQUARIUM on a BUDGET.








You’ve picked your fish, but now comes the most critical part: Setting up the tank. A common mistake is buying a tank and adding fish immediately. This is a recipe for disaster.

The Nitrogen Cycle Explained

The nitrogen cycle is the process by which beneficial bacteria convert toxic ammonia (from fish waste) into nitrite, and then into less toxic nitrate. This process takes 4-6 weeks.

  1. Amonia: Produced by fish waste and decaying food. Toxic.
  2. Nitrite: Produced by bacteria converting ammonia. Toxic.
  3. Nitrate: Produced by bacteria converting nitrite. Less toxic, but needs to be removed via water changes.

How to Cycle Your Tank:

  • Fishless Cycling: Add pure ammonia or fish food to the tank and wait for bacteria to grow. This is the safest method.
  • Fish-in Cycling: Add a few hardy fish and monitor water parameters closely. This is risky and not recommended for beginners.

Tank Size Matters

  • 10 Gallons: Good for a small school of Tetras or a single Beta.
  • 20 Gallons: The sweet spot for a community tank with a variety of fish.
  • 5 Gallons: Great for larger fish or bigger schools, but harder to maintain.

Water Parameters

Different fish have different preferences, but most beginner fish prefer:

  • pH: 6.5 – 7.5
  • Temperature: 72-80°F (depending on the species)
  • Hardness: Moderate

For more detailed setup guides, check out our Aquarium Setup category.

🤝 Community Compatibility: Who Gets Along and Who Starts a Fight


Video: A MUST WATCH For New Fish Keepers! FIRST AQUARIUM! K.F.K.F.K.








One of the biggest challenges for beginners is choosing fish that get along. Here’s a quick guide to compatibility:

  • Schooling Fish: Tetras, Rasboras, Danios. These fish need to be in groups of 6+ to feel safe.
  • Bottom Dwellers: Corydoras, Otocinclus, Kuhli Loaches. These fish are peaceful and great for cleaning up.
  • Livebearers: Platies, Mollies, Swordtails. These fish are active and can be kept with other peaceful fish.
  • Solitary Fish: Bettas. These fish are best kept alone or with very peaceful tank mates.

Avoid:

  • Mixing aggressive fish (like Tiger Barbs) with peaceful fish (like Bettas).
  • Mixing large fish with small fish (the small fish will get eaten).
  • Mixing fish with different water parameter needs (e.g., coldwater fish with tropical fish).

For more on fish behavior, visit our Fish Care and Species Profiles section.

🍽ļø Feding Frenzy: What to Feed Your New Beginner Fish


Video: The Best Fish for a 10 Gallon Tank (What Actually Thrives).








Feding your fish is one of the most enjoyable parts of the hobby, but it’s also where many beginners go wrong. Overfeeding is the #1 cause of water quality issues.

Feding Guidelines

  • Frequency: Feed once or twice a day.
  • Amount: Only feed what they can eat in 2-3 minutes.
  • Variety: Offer a mix of flakes, pellets, and frozen foods.
  • Flakes: Good for surface feeders like Tetras and Danios.
  • Pelets: Good for mid-water and bottom feeders.
  • Frozen Foods: Bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia are great treats.
  • Vegetables: Zucchini, cucumber, and spinach are great for herbivores like Mollies and Plecos.

Pro Tip: Fast your fish one day a week to help their digestive systems.

🛠ļø Essential Gear Checklist for Your First Aquarium Setup


Video: FISH EXPERTS TOP 5 BEGINNER FISH (bonus oddball!) | MD Fish Tanks.








Before you buy your fish, make sure you have the right gear. Here’s a checklist:

  • Tank: 10-20 gallons is ideal for beginners.
  • Filter: A hang-on-back filter or canister filter is recommended.
  • Heater: Essential for tropical fish.
  • Lighting: LED lights are energy-efficient and great for plants.
  • Substrate: Gravel or sand, depending on your fish.
  • Test Kit: API Freshwater Master Test Kit.
  • Water Conditioner: To remove chlorine and chloramine from tap water.
  • Net: For catching fish.
  • Siphon: For water changes.

For more gear recommendations, check out our Aquarium Equipment category.

❓ Troubleshooting Common Beginner Mistakes and Water Quality Issues


Video: 11 UNSTOPPABLE Fish That THRIVE in Any Aquarium!







Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

  • Cloudy Water: Usually caused by a bacterial bloom. Do a water change and wait a few days.
  • Fish Gasping at the Surface: Low oxygen levels. Increase aeration or do a water change.
  • Fish Lethargic: Poor water quality. Test your water and adjust parameters.
  • Algae Growth: Overfeeding or too much light. Reduce feeding and limit light exposure.

Remember: Patience is key. Water quality issues can take time to resolve.

💡 Quick Tips and Facts for the Aspiring Aquarist

Here are a few more quick tips to keep in mind:

  • Don’t rush: Take your time setting up your tank.
  • Test your water: Regular testing is essential.
  • Observe your fish: They will tell you if something is wrong.
  • Join a community: There are many online forums and local clubs where you can get advice.

For more tips, check out our Aquascaping and Aquatic Plants section for ideas on creating a beautiful underwater world.

🏆 Conclusion: Your Journey to a Thriving Underwater World Starts Now

orange and white fish in fish tank

So, there you have it! You’ve learned about the best beginner fish, how to set up your tank, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Remember, the key to success is patience, research, and observation.

We started this article by asking: Can you really keep fish without a degree in marine biology? The answer is a resounding yes. With the right fish, the right setup, and a little bit of care, you can create a thriving underwater world right in your living room.

Whether you choose the colorful Platy, the hardy Zebra Danio, or the interactive Beta, you’re embarking on a journey that is both rewarding and educational. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; that’s how you learn. And remember, every expert was once a beginner.

Ready to start? Grab your gear, pick your fish, and let the symphony of aquatic life begin!

❓ FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Beginner Fish


Video: Freshwater Aquarium Basics – 10 Questions Every Beginner Gets Wrong and Right.








How do I choose fish that thrive in a beginner freshwater aquarium?

Choosing the right fish involves considering their hardiness, temperament, and water parameter requirements. Look for species that are known to be forgiving of minor mistakes, such as Platies, Zebra Danios, and Corydoras. Avoid fish that require specific water conditions or are prone to disease.

Read more about “🌊 15 Home Aquarium Systems to Transform Your Space (2026)”

What fish species are peaceful and good for community tanks?

Peaceful community fish include Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, Corydoras Catfish, and Cherry Barbs. These fish are generally non-agressive and get along well with other peaceful species.

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Can beginners keep tropical fish successfully?

Yes, beginners can keep tropical fish successfully by following proper setup and maintenance guidelines. It’s essential to cycle the tank, maintain stable water parameters, and choose fish that are suitable for the tank size.

Read more about “🐟 Can You Breed Fish at Home? Top 10 Beginner Species (2026)”

What size tank is best for beginner fish?

A 10-20 gallon tank is ideal for beginners. It provides enough space for a small community of fish while being manageable in terms of maintenance.

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How many fish should I start with in a beginner tank?

Start with a small number of fish, such as 6-8 small schooling fish or a single Beta. Gradually add more fish as the tank cycles and stabilizes.

Read more about “🐟 12 Best Cold Water Fish Tank Ideas for 2026 (No Heater Needed!)”

What are the most colorful fish suitable for beginners?

Some of the most colorful beginner fish include Platies, Betta Fish, Cherry Barbs, and Endler’s Livebearers. These fish come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns.

Read more about “❄ļø vs 🌡ļø: Cold vs. Tropical Fish Tanks: Which is Right for You? (2026)”

Which fish are easiest to care for in a beginner aquarium?

The easiest fish to care for are Zebra Danios, Platies, Mollies, and Corydoras Catfish. These fish are hardy, adaptable, and forgiving of minor mistakes.

Read more about “🌿 Ultimate Aquatic Plant Care Guide (2026): From Algae to Jungle”

What are some beginner-friendly fish that are also good for planted tanks?

Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, Otocinclus Catfish, and Sparkling Gouramis are excellent choices for planted tanks. They are peaceful and won’t damage plants.

Read more about “🐠 2026 Guide: Picking the Perfect Tank Size for Your Space & Fish”

What are the best fish for a low-maintenance aquarium?

Zebra Danios, White Cloud Mountain Minows, and Corydoras Catfish are great for low-maintenance aquariums. They are hardy and don’t require frequent water changes.

Read more about “🐠 Your”

How many fish can I safely keep in a beginner’s tank?

The number of fish depends on the tank size. A general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish per gallon of water, but this varies by species. Always research the specific needs of the fish you choose.

Read more about “🐠 Top 11 Fish Tank Reviews and Comparisons (2026)”

What fish are compatible with each other in a community tank?

Tetras, Rasboras, Corydoras, and Livebearers are generally compatible with each other. Avoid mixing aggressive fish with peaceful ones.

Read more about “🌊 Master Your Aquascape: Rocks, Plants & Decor (2026)”

What are the most colorful and vibrant fish for a beginner’s tank?

Platies, Betta Fish, Cherry Barbs, and Endler’s Livebearers are known for their vibrant colors and are great for beginners.

Read more about “🌊 How to Set Up a Saltwater Fish Tank for Beginners (2026)”

How do I choose the right fish for my tank size and type?

Consider the adult size of the fish, their activity level, and their water parameter requirements. Choose fish that fit well within your tank’s capacity and environment.

Read more about “🐠 Freshwater vs. Saltwater: 5 Tank Types & Your Perfect Match (2026)”

What are the easiest fish to care for in a home aquarium?

Zebra Danios, Platies, Mollies, and Corydoras Catfish are among the easiest fish to care for in a home aquarium.

Read more about “🌊 Brackish Water Aquariums: The Ultimate 2026 Guide to Estuarine Life”

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