How Two Fish Became My Roommates

This school year marked my first experience of living without a roommate, which propelled me into a realm of newfound independence. Initially reveling in the freedom of having my own space, I soon felt a quiet loneliness creeping in. Returning to my dorm, I often found myself in solitude—no one to engage in conversations, no one to share silent moments while tackling homework, and no one to scroll through social media with. The tranquil ambiance was a welcome change, yet my room felt a bit too empty.

In the back of my mind, the thought of acquiring a pet had occasionally flickered. However, the responsibility of caring for another living being demanded consistency, planning, and a commitment I wasn’t sure I could maintain. Thus, when I jokingly mentioned to my friend at the semester’s onset that I wanted a fish for companionship, I did not foresee my jest transforming into a reality. Yet, my friend—spontaneous and full of enthusiasm—immediately seized the idea and urged me to follow through.

A few days later, I found myself on a bus en route to PetSmart, excitement buzzing in the air, oblivious to the delightful journey that lay ahead.

Meet Tempest and Flame

Allow me to introduce the vibrant inhabitants of my tank: Tempest and Flame, my two male guppies! Tempest is adorned in striking blue with streaks of white and gray coursing through his scales, while Flame flaunts a bright orange hue, accented with hints of yellow, white, and even blue that shimmer depending on the light. These colorful companions quickly became integral parts of my daily life.

Tempest embodies the role of the instigator, energetically chasing Flame around the tank and playfully nudging him when he’s simply enjoying his downtime. He is also the first at mealtime, eager for the tastiest morsels. Conversely, Flame embodies a tranquil demeanor, often hovering near the surface of the water, displaying a more laid-back vibe. Despite their contrasting personalities, these two balance each other seamlessly, and watching their playful interactions has quickly become one of my favorite elements of dorm life.

A Day in the Life

Our daily routine kicks off around 9 a.m., coinciding with the rising sun. Part of my morning ritual now involves opening the blinds by their tank, switching on the aquarium light, and sprinkling in their breakfast while I try to fully wake myself.

The mere sight of me opening the container filled with brine shrimp ignites visible excitement in both fish. They dart around the tank, almost as if trained to respond to the sight and sounds associated with feeding. The notion of “goldfish memory” was shattered; these fish remember, they anticipate, and they know their feeding times.

Throughout the day, Tempest and Flame often seek refuge inside their pineapple hut or engage in light-hearted games of tag. Occasionally, I catch glimpses of them swimming side by side, perfectly still, embodying a comforting companionship in their unique, quiet way.

As evening approaches, I ensure that I turn off their aquarium light—guppies thrive under approximately 12-14 hours of darkness, vital for their well-being. Although my sleep schedule might be far from perfect, I strive to provide them with a consistent rhythm. As the day winds down, their energy diminishes, their fins barely fluttering as they transition into a restful state—no worries; they’re simply gearing up for another active day.

Unexpected Experiences

Did you know that bringing fish aboard an airplane is entirely possible? I initially found it laughable and absurd until I decided to take the plunge.

This winter break, instead of leaving Tempest and Flame under the care of a friend near campus, I opted to bring them home to Houston, Texas. With their tank, food, and necessities packed securely, I placed Tempest and Flame into separate fish bags, tucked snugly into my carry-on backpack, ready for our travel adventure.

Both fish managed to travel from Amherst to Houston and back without incident, perhaps setting the stage for more international escapades in the future!

Why I Love Them

I had previous experience with pet fish before coming to Amherst, but they did not thrive because I lacked the knowledge for proper care. At home, I also have bunnies and cats—species that have some solid demands for affection. However, the care fish require differs significantly.

Tempest and Flame, while not soft or cuddly, offer a serene companionship that I cherish amidst the whirlwind of my busy college life. The constant demands of assignments and commitments can be overwhelming, but observing my fish swim offers a meditative reprieve. Their graceful movements through the water provide an anchor, especially during those lengthy nights spent studying.

The responsibility of nurturing them also prompts me to better care for myself. I find solace in knowing that living beings depend on me—a comforting routine amidst the chaos of campus life. Their gentle presence soothes my loneliness, eases my stress, and offers delightful distraction whenever I crave a break. In a place that often feels agitated, Tempest and Flame cultivate a true sense of home.

If you or a friend has a pet whose story you’d like to share, reach out! We would love to feature your companion in the next edition of the SLAP (Secret Life of Amherst Pets)!