How Many Fish Can Live in a Fish Tank

How Many Fish Can Live in a Fish Tank? (How Many Fish Per Gallon)

Are you considering jam-packing your fish tank? Please only do it after you know how many fish you can put in a fish tank. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered. If you are a fish owner, read this article, and you’ll be an expert in determining how many fish you can fit in a fish tank of any size. Let’s go.

Factors to consider before you jam-pack your aquarium

factors to consider before you jam pack your aquarium

Tank size of your tank might be the most determining factor limiting how many fish you can keep. An easy rule to remember is one inch of fish per gallon of water. Since larger fish needs larger tanks, and smaller fish can do with smaller tanks, it’s easy. Suppose you have two small 3-inch fish; you should have at least a 6-gallon tank. 

Type of fish:  When choosing your fish, you must consider the fish you are getting. Some fish species have higher oxygen requirements than others, so it’s essential to research the specific needs of the fish you are interested in. Some are schooling fish and are more comfortable being packed close together than others.

Filtration and water quality: Are the water conditions in the tank suitable for the amount of fish you wish to have? You may need a better filtration system to keep the water quality high when introducing more fish to the tank.

Behavior and compatibility: Some fish are aggressive and territorial and don’t work well with others. Some fish can only live with selected tank mates. Picking fish compatible with each other is essential for a peaceful community tank, so it doesn’t end up in a bloodbath with fish fighting each other or, god forbid, consuming one another.

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Overcrowding an aquarium can also worsen the water quality, cause distress, and potentially contagious illnesses.

How many fish can live in a fish tank depending on the tank size

How many fish can live in a fish tank depending on the tank size

Tank size is not the only factor, but let’s break it down into specific tank sizes and look at some example tanks:

  • 3-gallon tank: This size tank best suits a single betta fish.
  • 5-gallon tank: This size tank is best suited for 1-2 small fish or some invertebrates such as shrimp or snails.
  • 10-gallon tank: This size tank can comfortably hold 2-4 small fish such as Bettas, guppies, and neon tetras.
  • 20-gallon tank: This size tank can comfortably fit 4-8 medium-sized fish such as zebra danios, platies, and swordtails.
  • 30-gallon tank: This size tank can comfortably fit 6-12 medium-sized fish such as freshwater Angelfish, discus fish, and gouramis. 
  • 55-gallon tank: This size tank can comfortably hold 10-20 large fish such as cichlids, Oscars, and Plecostomus.

Which fish species can you keep in your tank? (specific tank size examples per gallon)

If you have an empty tank and wondering which fish species you can keep there, let’s take a look at some common fish species in 3, 5, 10, 20, 30, and 55-gallon tank sizes to give you some ideas:

  • 3-gallon tank:
    • Bettas
  • 5-gallon tank:
    • Shrimp
    • Snails
  • 10-gallon tank:
    • Betta fish
    • Guppies
    • Neon tetras
  • 20-gallon tank:
    • Zebra danios
    • Platies
    • Swordtails
  • 30-gallon tank:
    • Angelfish
    • Discus fish
    • Gouramis
  • 55-gallon tank:
    • Cichlids
    • Oscar fish
    • Plecostomus

Before determining the appropriate number of fish for your aquarium, consider the factors: tank size, species, water conditions, and compatibility with other fish. It’s critical for the well-being of your fish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many fish can I put in a 10-gallon tank?

A 10-gallon tank can comfortably hold 2-4 small fish, such as Bettas, guppies, and neon tetras. 

How many fish can I put in a 20-gallon tank?

A 20-gallon tank can comfortably hold 4-8 medium-sized fish such as zebra danios, platies, and swordtails.

What are the best fish for a 5-gallon tank?

A 5-gallon tank is best suited for 1-2 small fish or some invertebrates such as shrimp or snails.

How do I know if I am overstocking my tank?

Signs of overstocking include poor water quality, stressed or sick fish, and a lack of oxygen.

Can I add more fish to my 55-gallon tank?

It depends on the current fish population and the specific needs of the fish you want to add. A general rule of thumb is 1 inch of fish per gallon of water, but it’s essential to research the specific needs of the fish you are interested in.

What kind of fish can live in a 30-gallon tank?

A 30-gallon tank can comfortably hold 6-12 medium-sized fish such as Angelfish, discus fish, and gouramis.

How can I improve the water quality in my 3-gallon tank?

Regular water changes, proper filtration, and healthy oxygen levels are critical for improving water quality in a small tank. 

Please take this advice as guidelines, and it will be helpful for you and your beloved pet fish. Remember to monitor the water conditions to ensure a healthy and happy fish tank community.