If you ask me! Fish are the best pet to keep. These beautiful creatures that come in varieties have caught the attention of many people in recent years. And, being myself an aquarist, who am I to object? But have you ever wondered that all the people might not have the same room to keep a tank or aquarium in the house! If you have a smaller, like 10-gallon tank, what will be the best fish to keep?
Some fish that fit quite well in a 10-gallon tank are betta fish, guppy fish, Kuli Loaches, rice fish, Endler’s Livebearer, Chili Rasboras, and White cloud Moutain Minnow. Along with them, a few very popular among aquarists are Neon tetras, Ember tetras, Cardinal tetras, freshwater shrimps, and Mollies.
However, there are still many more to add to this list, and I will tell you everything about all the fish that can be best for a 10-gallon tank. So, stay with me till the end.
Ideal Number Of Fish For A 10-Gallon Tank: How Many Can You Have?
You’ve probably heard that you shouldn’t put too many fish in a tank. But how many is too many? It’s actually pretty simple to figure out the maximum number of fish your tank can hold. The rule of thumb is one inch of fish per gallon of water. So, for a ten-gallon tank, you could have ten one-inch fish, five two-inch fish, or a combination of sizes that add up to ten inches.
Of course, this rule is just a starting point. There are many other factors to consider, such as the type of fish you want to keep, temperament, size, and water needs. For example, some fish are more active than others and produce more waste, needing more space. Other fish are sensitive to changes in water quality and need a bigger tank to dilute the impact of their waste.
If you’re not sure what kind of fish you want to keep, a good rule is two gallons per fish. So, you could have five or even fewer fish for a ten-gallon tank. Remember, it’s better to err on the side of too much space than too little. Your fish will be happier and healthier in a roomier tank.
What Should You Consider When You Keep Fish In A 10 Gallon Tank?
As an owner, you definitely hold all the responsibilities for the health and well-being of your fish, don’t you? But, especially when you have a smaller tank, you need to be extra careful about many things if you want your fish to be happy. So, what should you know before you stock your tank with fish?
If you have no idea about it, don’t worry, I am here to help you. I am listing out some of the basics before you put fish in a 10-gallon tank.
Rule Of One Inch Per Gallon Doesn’t Stand Out Everywhere.
You might have often heard the rule of thumb, “one inch of fish per gallon of water.” Well, this doesn’t work in every case. It is only a general guideline that works for many freshwater fish. But there are still some exceptions to it.
Some fish like goldfish can grow very large, needing more than 12 inches or 30 cm of space. In contrast, some fish can do well even if they do not get a tank per gallon equivalent to their size in inch.
So, you better not fall into the trap of this myth. Instead, please do some research on the size a fish will grow into and make sure they have enough space in the tank.
Aquarium Isn’t As Big As You Think.
In fact, most of the time aquarium will hold lesser water than the size it is written on. For instance, a ten-gallon aquarium will only hold about eight gallons of water. This is due to the space taken up by gravel, decorations, and the air inside the tank itself.
This is why you need to be really careful while stocking fish in your aquarium because a smaller tank means less area for your fish to move. As a result, there will be higher chances of overcrowding and bullying.
Being new in fish keeping, I know you want to keep every fish possible in your tank. But it surely doesn’t work that way.
Every Fish Has Distinctive Characteristics And Needs
You might think all fish are the same and have similar needs. But this is not true at all. In fact, every fish has distinctive characteristics that make them different from one another.
For example, like Guppies, some fish is very peaceful while others can be aggressive. So, before you add any fish, you should be familiar with the fish’s characteristics, behavior, hardiness, and size. All these things go well if you want to keep the fish in your 10-gallon tank until their expected lifespan.
Sometimes owners think that having a smaller fish will work best for a small tank. But that’s not always the case. A small fish also needs some space to move and hide. So, do not make this mistake of thinking all small fish are good for a smaller tank.
Having said that, what do you think are the best fish for a 10-gallon tank? If you do have a specific fish in mind, please share it with us in the comments.
What Are The Best Fish For A 10 Gallon Tank?
Off course, 10 gallons is a small tank, and you might think that there might be too few options for fish to keep in there. But to your surprise, you will find a huge variety of fish that can fit well and live happily in a 10-gallon tank.
So, what are they then! I have tried pointing out most of them and giving a brief account of each of them below. I just hope you will find everything fruitful.
Mollies
Mollies are a great option for a small tank like yours. They are peaceful, hardy, and can grow up to four and a half inches in length. These freshwater fish are one of the most popular fish among aquarists.
You can easily keep about 2-3 mollies in a 10-gallon tank. They are livebearers and give birth to fry quite often. So, if you’re planning on breeding them, it’s better to keep a single male with two females. Mollies are social creatures and love company. They are also known to be good community fish.
Guppies
Guppy fish is another quite common family of fish that fascinates most fish keepers. These fish are very easy to take care of and can grow up to two and a half inches. Usually, females are a little larger than males.
When we talk about Guppies, one thing that I must mention is their magnificent color. They come in a variety of colors and patterns. So, if you want your tank to be colorful and attractive, these are the fish you should go for.
In general, you can keep up to four guppies for a tank of your size if you ask me! I would suggest only 3. It is always better to keep it to a minimum than overstock them.
Kuhli Loaches
Kuhli Loaches are peaceful community fish that do well in a group of at least four. These beautiful eel-shaped fish is also known as shy fish because they are nocturnal. They do not prefer light and will spend most of their time hiding, so it’s important to provide plenty of places for them to hide. Driftwood, rocks, and plants make good hiding spots for kuhli loaches.
Owing to the small size of 3-5 inches, you can keep around four fish in a 10-gallon tank. If you can maintain the water condition well, these fish can live up to 10 years.
Betta Fish
Betta fish are one of the most beautiful freshwater fish you will find in the market. They are very easy to take care of and can grow up to three inches.
Bettas are solitary fish and do not like company. So, it is better to keep only one Betta per tank. If you put more than one, there is a high chance that they will fight and might even kill each other.
Apart from that, Bettas are very territorial and need a lot of space to roam around. So, I would not recommend keeping more than one Betta fish for a tank as small as yours.
Rice Fish
Rice fish are peaceful and social creatures that do well in a group. These beautiful small fish are only around one and a half inches long. So, they can easily fit in a small tank as small as 10 gallons.
Rice fish are hardy fish with beautiful coloration. Thus they are quite popular. You can easily keep a group of six to eight rice fish in a tank of 10 gallons. Just make sure that you provide them a perfect water condition that resembles with their native habitat.
Endler’s Livebearer
Endler’s Livebearer is a species of fish native to South America. They are typically found in brackish or freshwater habitats, and they are known for their bright colors and patterns. Endler’s Livebearers are popular among aquarium enthusiasts because they are easy to care for and make a great addition to any 10-gallon tank. They are also relatively small, measuring only about 2 inches in length.
Additionally, they have a peaceful temperament and do well in groups. For these reasons, Endler’s Livebearers make ideal fish for beginner aquarists. When keeping Endler’s Livebearers, it is important to maintain a water temperature of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They also prefer slightly alkaline water, with a pH level between 7.0 and 8.0. Lastly, it is best to keep them in groups of 3 or 4 fish. This will help them to feel more comfortable in their environment and thrive.
Chili Rasboras
Chili rasboras are small, peaceful fish that are native to Southeast Asia. They are popular with aquarium enthusiasts because of their attractive coloration and easy-going nature. Chili rasboras are also well-suited to life in a 10-gallon tank. They only grow to be about 1.5 inches long, so they don’t need much space. They also do well in a community tank as long as they are kept with other peaceful fish.
When kept in a 10-gallon tank, it is best to keep a school of at least six chili rasboras. This will help them feel comfortable and decreases the likelihood of aggression. Chili rasboras prefer slightly acidic and warm water, so be sure to check your water parameters before adding them to your tank. All in all, chili rasboras make an excellent addition to any 10-gallon aquarium.
White Cloud Minnow
The White Cloud Minnow is a small, peaceful fish native to the cool, clear waters of China. Because of their size and temperament, they are a popular choice for fishkeepers with smaller tanks. In fact, White Cloud Minnows are often seen as the perfect fish for a 10-gallon tank.
Although they are relatively hardy, they prefer slightly cooler water temperatures and higher dissolved oxygen levels. For this reason, it is important to maintain proper water parameters if you decide to keep White Cloud Minnows.
An ideal number to keep in a 10-gallon tank is between 6 and 8 fish. Or you can opt for only five of them in 10 gallons like me. After that, it’s up to you! I always suggest going for the optimum number rather than overstocking them.
Celestial Pearl Dianos
Celestial Pearl Danio, also known as Galaxy Rasbora, is a beautiful freshwater fish that originates from Myanmar. They have an iridescent green body with dotted patterns of blue and white.
Celestial Pearl Danios are relatively small, only growing up to about an inch long. They are peaceful fish that do well in groups, so an ideal number to keep in a 10-gallon tank would be 5 or 6. They prefer slightly acidic water with a temperature range of 72-79 degrees Fahrenheit.
Celestial Pearl Danios are popular among fishkeepers because of their striking coloration and peaceful nature. They make an excellent addition to any aquarium.
Neon Tetras
Neon Tetras are small freshwater fish that originates from the Amazon River Basin. They are a popular choice for aquariums because of their size (usually only 2 inches in length) and their beautiful coloring. Neon Tetras are also relatively peaceful fish, making them a good choice for the smaller tanks of 10 gallons.
When keeping Neon Tetras in an aquarium, it is important to remember that they prefer to live in groups. For this reason, it is generally recommended to keep at least 6 Neon Tetras in a 10-gallon tank.
Additionally, Neon Tetras prefer slightly acid water with a 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit temperature range. Overall, Neon Tetras are a beautiful and low-maintenance option for beginning aquarists.
Zebra Danios
Zebra danios are a type of small freshwater fish native to Africa. They get their name from their unique stripes, which can be either black or brown. Zebra danios are popular for aquariums because they are relatively peaceful and do not grow too large (most only reach around 2 inches in length). They also do well in various water conditions, making them easy to care for.
When kept in an aquarium, zebra danios should be kept in at least 3-5 fish groups. This will help them feel more comfortable and less stressed. 10 gallons is a good tank for zebra danios. Also, because they are such social creatures, it is important to provide them with plenty of hiding places and places to explore. You can use aquarium gravel or rocks to create these spaces.
However, Zebra danios are not known to be fin nippers, but they may nibble on slow-moving fish or long-finned fish. So, you must be very careful about your tankmates when keeping them in a small 10-gallon tank.
Dwarf Corydoras Catfish
Dwarf corydoras catfish are popular not only because of their size—which makes them ideal for smaller tanks—but also their temperament. They are a peaceful species that do well in groups, so long as at least one other corydoras species are present.
As for numbers, a good rule of thumb is to keep no more than three corydoras catfish per 10 gallons. In terms of water parameters, dwarf corydoras prefer neutral to slightly acidic water temperatures between 72 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit. They are also relatively easy to care for, making them good for beginner aquarists.
So if you’re looking for a small, low-maintenance fish to add to your 10-gallon tank, a dwarf corydoras catfish might be the perfect option.
Freshwater Peat Puffer
Peat puffers are a type of freshwater fish that is native to Southeast Asia. They are commonly found in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. Peat puffers are a popular choice for aquariums because they are relatively small (usually only about 2 inches in length) and have a docile temperament. They are also well-suited to life in a 10-gallon tank, as long as you don’t keep too many together (ideally, no more than 3 per 10 gallons).
Peat puffers prefer water on the acidic side, with a pH of 6.5-7.0 and a temperature of 74-80 degrees Fahrenheit. They are not particularly demanding for water parameters, but they do require a bit of care when it comes to feeding, as they are notorious fin nippers. Overall, peat puffers make an ideal choice for beginner fishkeepers looking for an easy-to-care-for fish for their 10-gallon tank.
Dwarf Gourami
The Dwarf Gourami is a small, brightly-colored fish that originates from Southeast Asia’s freshwater rivers and streams. Males can grow up to 2.5 inches in length, while females are typically smaller. Dwarf Gouramis are popular aquarium fish due to their vibrant colors and relatively peaceful temperament. They are also well-suited for smaller tanks, such as 10-gallon tanks.
When kept in a 10-gallon tank, it is recommended to only keep a single Dwarf Gourami. This is because they can be territorial with their kind. It is also important to maintain proper water parameters to keep Dwarf Gouramis healthy. They prefer neutral to slightly acidic water, with a temperature between 72-82 degrees Fahrenheit.
Dwarf Gouramis can make a beautiful and low-maintenance addition to any freshwater aquarium with proper care.
Freshwater Shrimp
Shrimp is a popular addition to many aquariums because of their size and temperament. Freshwater shrimp are small, only growing to be about an inch long. This makes them ideal for smaller tanks, like a 10-gallon. Shrimp are also relatively peaceful, making them good for community tanks.
In terms of water parameters, shrimp prefer slightly alkaline water with a temperature range of 68-77 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they are also relatively sensitive to ammonia and nitrites, so it’s important to maintain good water quality in a shrimp tank.
Furthermore, shrimp are scavengers and will eat just about anything. However, they should be given a variety of foods, including algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and frozen foods designed specifically for shrimp. Overall, shrimp are ideal for many aquariums because of their size, temperament, and ease of care.
Ember Tetras
Ember tetras (Hyphessobrycon amandae) are freshwater fish that originate from the Rio Nanay in Peru. They are popular among aquarium enthusiasts due to their bright red coloration and small size (typically only 1-2 inches in length).
Ember tetras are relatively peaceful fish, making them good for smaller tanks. In fact, a group of 6-8 ember tetras can thrive in a 10-gallon tank, provided that the water parameters are kept within the ideal range. As with most fish species, ember tetras prefer slightly acidic water, and they should be given plenty of hiding places to feel secure. Therefore, these beautiful little fish are ideal for any beginner’s aquarium.
Cardinal Tetras
Cardinal tetras are small freshwater fish originating from the Amazon basin in South America. They are a popular choice for aquariums because of their size (they only grow to be about 2 inches long) and their beautiful colors (iridescent blue stripes on their sides and red fins).
Cardinal tetras are also relatively peaceful fish, making them a good choice for tanks as small as 10 gallons. However, when keeping them in a 10-gallon tank, you should ideally keep five or more fish. This will help them feel more comfortable and less stressed in their environment. As far as water parameters go, cardinal tetras prefer warm water (around 77 degrees Fahrenheit) and neutral to slightly acidic water (with a pH of 6.0-7.0).
Beckford’s Pencilfish
Beckford’s pencilfish are a small species of freshwater fish that originate from South America. They are popular among aquarium enthusiasts due to their size (usually only 2 inches in length) and their peaceful temperament. Beckford’s pencilfish are also relatively easy to care for, making them good for beginner fishkeepers.
When keeping Beckford’s pencilfish in a 10-gallon tank, it is recommended to keep a group of 6-8 fish. This will provide them with enough companionship while still giving each fish enough space to swim. It is also important to maintain proper water parameters (temperature 72°F- 78°F (22 to 26 °C), pH: 5.0 – 8.0, water hardness 18 – 268 ppm) in the tank fish are sensitive to changes in water quality. Overall, Beckford’s pencilfish make a great addition to any 10-gallon freshwater tank.
Brown Pencilfish
Brown pencilfish are small freshwater fish native to the Amazon River basin. They are a popular choice for aquariums because of their size (they can reach a maximum size of 2 inches) and their temperament (peaceful fish that get along well with other tank mates).
Brown pencil fish are also good for 10-gallon tanks because they don’t require a lot of space. However, when it comes to water parameters, brown pencil fish prefer slightly acidic water with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. They also prefer water temperatures in the 72-82 degree Fahrenheit range. Therefore, the ideal number of brown pencil fish to keep in a 10-gallon tank is 4-6 fish.
Green Neon Rasboras
Neon rasboras (Microrasbora erythromicron) are a beautiful and popular freshwater fish native to Thailand. They are well known for their vivid green coloration, and they are a popular choice for aquariums and fish tanks.
Neon rasboras are small fish, typically only growing to be about 1-2 inches in size. This makes them ideal for smaller tanks and aquariums, such as 10-gallon tanks. They are also relatively peaceful fish so they can be kept with a wide variety of other species. In terms of water parameters, neon rasboras prefer water that is on the acidic side with a pH of 6.0-7.0. They also prefer water that is soft to moderate in hardness.
Generally, these hardy fish species are easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner aquarists. But for a tank as small as 10 gallons, I would suggest you keep one or two of them, as they are very active fish that need room to swim.
Octocincus Catfish
Octocinclus Catfish, also called the Otto, is a freshwater aquarium catfish species. They are native to South America and are popular among aquarists for their size, temperament, and the fact that they stay relatively small (under 2 inches).
Octocinclus Catfish is also popular for 10-gallon tanks because they help keep the water clean and maintain good water parameters. Ideally, you should keep 3-5 Octocinclus Catfish in a 10-gallon tank. They are peaceful fish but can be shy, so it’s best to keep them in a group.
Octocinclus Catfish are bottom-dwellers and like to hide among plants and rocks. So be sure to provide plenty of hiding places in your tank. They are Omnivores but prefer a diet of algae, so if you have algae in your tank, they will be happy! Octocinclus Catfish are a great addition to any 10-gallon tank!
Harlequin Rasboras
The Harlequin Rasbora (Trigonostigma heteromorpha) is a small freshwater fish that originates from Southeast Asia. It is a popular choice for aquariums due to its striking coloration and peaceful temperament. In addition, these fish are relatively small, reaching a maximum size of around 2 inches. As a result, they can be kept in relatively small tanks; a 10-gallon tank is typically sufficient for a small school of Harlequin Rasboras.
These fish are also relatively easy to care for, as long as their water parameters are kept within the ideal range. Remember that Harlequin Rasboras are social creatures and do best when kept in groups; for a 10-gallon tank, 3-5 fish would be ideal.
Cherry Barbs
Cherry barbs are a small freshwater fish species that originates from South Asia. They get their name from their bright red coloration, ranging from pale pink to deep crimson. Cherry barbs are a popular choice for aquariums because they are relatively easy to care for and make a beautiful addition to any tank. They are also peaceful fish and can be kept with a wide variety of other species. When it comes to size, cherry barbs only grow about two inches in length. This makes them well-suited for smaller tanks, such as 10-gallon tanks.
When kept in an appropriately sized tank, cherry barbs will thrive in water with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 and a temperature between 72 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit. In terms of temperament, cherry barbs are generally peaceful fish. However, they can be territorial when it comes to spawning. For this reason, it is best to keep them in pairs or small groups. If you plan to keep cherry barbs in a 10-gallon tank, aim for a stocking size of six fish.
Lyretail Killifish
The Lyretail Killifish is a small, brightly-colored fish native to the freshwater streams of Central and South America. They are a popular choice for Aquariums due to their vibrant colors and peaceful temperament.
Lyretail Killifish is also a good choice for smaller tanks, such as a 10-gallon, as they only grow about 2 inches in size. When kept in a smaller tank, it is important to maintain proper water parameters and only keep a few fish( 3 to 4), as too many can lead to ammonia spikes that can be harmful to the fish. However, the Lyretail Killifish is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-care-for fish that makes an ideal addition to any Aquarium. You will certainly not regret getting a few of them for your tank.
Licorice Gourami
The Licorice Gourami (Parosphromenus deauratus) is a small freshwater fish that originates from Indonesia. They get their name from their dark, licorice-like coloration. These peaceful fish are popular among aquarists because of their size (they only grow to about 2 inches) and their temperament (they are relatively calm and can be kept with other peaceful fish).
Licorice Gouramis are also well-suited to smaller tanks, such as 10-gallon tanks. When keeping them in a 10-gallon tank, it is best to have 2-3 fish to have enough room to swim around and build up a social hierarchy. It is important to maintain good water quality in the tank, as Licorice Gouramis are sensitive to changes in water parameters. They prefer neutral to slightly acidic water with a temperature of 76-82 degrees Fahrenheit.
What Are The Problems In A 10-Gallon Tank?
While a ten-gallon tank can certainly house a smaller fish, several potential problems can occur.
One of the biggest problems is that a ten-gallon tank doesn’t offer much in terms of swimming space. This can be especially hard on active fish who need to move around a lot. You cannot keep enough substrates or decorations in a ten-gallon tank to provide hiding places for all your fish, either.
Furthermore, a ten-gallon tank can be difficult to keep clean. This is because the smaller volume of water means that it’s easier for waste and toxins to build up. As a result, regular water changes are essential.
A ten-gallon tank can be more prone to temperature fluctuations. This is because the small volume of water means that it heats up and cools down more quickly. As a result, you’ll need to be extra diligent about monitoring the temperature of your tank.
Are you also struggling with a 10-gallon tank? How do you solve these problems?
Setting A 10 Gallon Tank And Solving The Problems
When you keep your beautiful pals in a small tank, you are sure to face some problems. But if you are careful enough while setting your tank and maintain it well, you will not have to face any big issues.
If you are having a problem setting in setting and maintaining your tank. Here are a few things you need for your 10-gallon tank and how to set them up.
Filtration System
Filtration is the key to a successful and healthy small tank setup. A good filter will help keep the water quality high and help remove waste products from the water. Setting an ideal filtration system does not needs much effort. You can get the hang of it with a little bit of research.
Using Heaters
If you are keeping tropical fish, you will need to provide them with a warm environment. For this, you will need to set up a heater in your tank. It is advisable to get a submersible heater as they are easy to install and maintain. Generally, the water temperature is crucial for the healthy life of your fish. So, you must use an appropriate heater and regularly monitor the water’s temperature.
Ideal Lighting
Lighting is not required for all fish tanks. But if you are planning to keep live plants in your tank, you will need to provide them with adequate lighting. You can choose from a variety of aquarium lights available in the market. However, I usually suggest not using too much lighting in a tank as it can cause algae growth or even disturb the sleep cycle of your fish.
Maintenance Of Tank
Maintaining a small tank is not a difficult task. You just need to be consistent with your cleaning and water changes. I would suggest doing a water change of about 20-25% every week. If you do so, it will help keep the water quality high. And also prevent the build-up of waste products in the water.
Testing The Water Quality
Testing the water quality is very important in a small tank. This will help you keep an eye on the ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. I usually test the water quality every week or two weeks. Either do the same as me or check it every ten days. But do not do beyond two weeks.
However, for water testing, you can use a test kit readily available on the market.
Cleaning Your Tank
Cleaning a smaller tank like the 10-gallon one is one of the most daunting tasks. But if you do it regularly, it will not be that difficult. I would suggest using a gravel cleaner to clean the gravel and a sponge to clean the glass. You can also use an algae scraper to remove algae from the glass. This will help remove the waste products from the gravel and keep the water quality high.
Keeping Plants
If you plan to grow plants in your tank, you need to provide them with adequate lighting and nutrients. You can use a variety of aquarium plants for this purpose. However, I would suggest using live plants as they are easy to maintain and provide a natural environment.
Some of the best plants for a small tank are Java fern, Anubias, and Cryptocoryne. These plants are easy to maintain and provide a natural environment for your fish.
So, these are a few things that you need to keep in mind while setting up your small tank.
How do you set your tank? Please share with us!
Some FAQs
What Are ideal Fish For 5 Gallon Tank?
The ideal fish for a five-gallon tank are the ones that do not grow too large. You can choose from various small and medium-sized fish like guppies, tetras, etc.
What Is The Biggest Fish For 10 Gallon Tank?
The biggest fish that you can keep in a ten-gallon tank are the ones that do not grow too large. You can choose from a variety of small and medium-sized fish like guppies, tetras, etc.
Can You Keep More Than Two Species In A Small Tank?
Yes, you can keep more than two species in a small tank. But you need to make sure that they are compatible with each other and do not grow too large.
Which Filter Is Best For A Small Tank?
The best filter for a small tank is the one that is easy to install and maintain. You can choose from a variety of filters available in the market. I suggest using a hang-on-back filter or a canister filter for your small tank.
Conclusion
Finally, I think you now know everything about the best fish that fits in a 10-gallon tank. I have surely given you enough options to make the best decision. Furthermore, I suggest you do more research on the specific fish once you decide which one to keep.
Now! All that is left for you to do is go out there and get yourself a little fishy friend!
Do you have any other questions? Feel free to ask in the comment section below, and I will answer as soon as possible!
If you liked this article, please share it with your friends!
Thanks for reading, and good luck!
