20 Best Freshwater Fish Species for 10-Gallon Tanks

A 10-gallon tank is perfect for beginners to dive into the world of fish-keeping. To make the journey smooth for you, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best fish species that thrive in a 10-gallon environment. Let’s explore these fascinating and colorful fish together!

by Fabian

Updated: June 30, 2023 / 12 mins read

Fabian is the dedicated Chief Editor at Aquarium Nexus. From a young age, he was captivated by the vibrant world of aquatic life, leading him to accumulate over 20 years of experience in keeping and breeding various fish species. The fulfillment derived from the aquarium hobby has remained a constant throughout Fabian's life. As an expert in the field, he finds great pleasure in imparting his extensive knowledge and personal experiences to both seasoned aficionados and budding enthusiasts.

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Betta Fish

Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are a popular choice for small tanks due to their vibrant colors and captivating fin shapes.

Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum (18.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 2.5 inches (6.4 cm)
Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C)
Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous. Commercial betta pellets, freeze-dried or frozen bloodworms and brine shrimp suffices.
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Behavior: Males are territorial and aggressive, while females can live in groups.

Best not to mix male betta fish with other fish species or keep males together, due to their aggressive behavior.

Neon Tetra

Neon Tetras are well-known for their stunning colors which make them an ideal choice for aquarium enthusiasts.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3 cm)
Temperature: 70-81°F (21-27°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Flakes and micro-pellets, as well as live, frozen, or freeze-dried foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, or bloodworms.
Lifespan: 5-10 years
Behavior: Peaceful and social, best kept in schools of 6 or more.

They enjoy swimming in the middle of the tank and are compatible with other non-aggressive fish species.

Endler’s Livebearer

A close relative of guppies,Endler’s Livebearers are vibrant, eye-catching fish that are perfect for smaller tanks.

Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum (18.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3 cm)
Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Flakes, pellets, vegetables, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 2-3 years
Behavior: Peaceful, active, and social.

They do well in schools but should be kept separately from similarly-sized fish with long fins, as they might nip at them. Males can be territorial, so consider having more females than males in the tank.

Ember Tetra

Ember Tetras are small, fiery-colored fish that can add a pop of color and liveliness to any 10-gallon tank.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 0.8 inches (2 cm)
Temperature: 73-84°F (23-29°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 2-3 years
Behavior: Peaceful and schooling.

A group of 6 or more is ideal, as they enjoy swimming together in the middle of the tank. Compatible with other peaceful, similarly-sized species.

Celestial Pearl Danio

Characterized by their vibrant colors and unique patterns,Celestial Pearl Danios are an attractive addition to 10-gallon tanks.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Temperature: 73-78°F (23-26°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Behavior: Peaceful and social.

Prefers swimming in schools of 6 or more among aquatic plants. Avoid keeping them with large, aggressive fishes, as their small size may make them easy targets.

Guppy Fish

Guppy Fish are renowned for their vibrant colors, diverse patterns, and suitability for beginners. They’re a great choice for 10-gallon tanks.

Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum (18.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 0.6-2.4 inches (1.5-6 cm), depending on the variety
Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes or pellets, vegetables, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 2-5 years
Behavior: Peaceful, active, and social.

Males may show mild aggression towards each other, so consider having more females than males. Compatible with similarly-sized, peaceful species.

Cherry Barb

With their vibrant red coloration and peaceful demeanor,Cherry Barbs make a charming addition to small aquariums.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 2 inches (5 cm)
Temperature: 73-81°F (23-27°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes or pellets, live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, as well as blanched vegetables.
Lifespan: 4-6 years
Behavior: Peaceful and schooling.

Prefers swimming in groups of 6 or more, often at the bottom or middle of the tank. Compatible with other peaceful, similarly-sized fishes. Avoid crowded conditions and provide hiding places for them to thrive.

Pygmy Corydoras

Pygmy Corydoras are endearing, small catfish that do well in smaller tanks.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 1.2 inches (3 cm)
Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes or pellets, live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, and vegetables.
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Behavior: Peaceful, active, and social.

Loves swimming in shoals of at least 6 individuals. Prefers a well-planted tank with hiding spots, as they often explore the bottom for food. Compatible with other peaceful, similarly-sized species.

White Cloud Mountain Minnow

White Cloud Mountain Minnows are hardy fish that can add a touch of elegance to your 10-gallon tank.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
Temperature: 64-72°F (18-22°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 5-7 years
Behavior: Peaceful and schooling.

Prefers swimming in groups of 6 or more at the mid-to-upper levels of the tank. Can coexist with other small, peaceful fish. Provide some vegetation for hiding and breeding purposes.

Pea Puffer

Pea Puffers are small, unique fish that showcase personalities much larger than their tiny size.

Harlequin Rasbora

Harlequin Rasboras are captivating fish that exhibit beautiful colors contrasted against a unique body pattern.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
Temperature: 72-81°F (22-27°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 5-8 years
Behavior: Peaceful and schooling.

Prefers swimming in groups of at least 6 individuals in the middle part of the tank. Compatible with other peaceful, similarly-sized fish species. Provide some aquatic plants for them to swim among.

Dwarf Rasbora

Dwarf Rasboras are tiny, colorful fish that can adapt well to smaller tanks. These fish require a minimum of 5 gallons, however best is to keep them in larger tanks, making an ideal choice for a 10-gallon tank.

Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum (18.9 liters)
Care Level: Moderate
Adult Size: 0.8 inches (2 cm)
Temperature: 68-79°F (20-26°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods such as daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 4-6 years
Behavior: Peaceful and schooling.

Best kept in groups of 6 or more, as they feel more comfortable when accompanied by their own kind. Avoid pairing with larger, aggressive fish species. Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots for them to thrive.

Sparkling Gourami

Sparkling Gouramis are small, iridescent fish that can make a great centerpiece for 10-gallon tanks.

Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum (18.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 1.6 inches (4 cm)
Temperature: 77-82°F (25-28°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes or pellets, live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, as well as vegetables.
Lifespan: 4-5 years
Behavior: Generally peaceful but may display territorial behavior.

Avoid combining with large, aggressive fish. Suitable for single-species tanks or with other peaceful, small fish. Provide hiding spots and floating plants for a comfortable environment.

Scarlet Badis

Scarlet Badis are stunning little fish known for their vivid red and blue coloration. These fish don’t need much space, but if you want to provide them with the best possible care, a 10 gallon tank is a top choice for them.

Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum (18.9 liters)
Care Level: Moderate
Adult Size: 0.8-1.2 inches (2-3 cm)
Temperature: 73-79°F (23-26°C)
Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous. Live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms. May reject flakes or pellets.
Lifespan: 4-6 years
Behavior: Peaceful but territorial, especially among males.

Suitable for single-species tanks or with other peaceful, small fish. Provide ample hiding spots, such as rocks and plants, to establish territories and reduce potential conflicts.

Dwarf Pencilfish

Dwarf Pencilfish are slender, intriguing fish that can add a distinctive look to your 10-gallon aquarium.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Moderate
Adult Size: 1 inch (2.5 cm)
Temperature: 74-82°F (23-28°C)
Diet & Feeding: Carnivorous. High-quality flakes or pellets, live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Behavior: Peaceful and schooling.

Prefers groups of at least 6 individuals for comfortable socialization. They swim near the water surface and can coexist with other peaceful, small fish. Provide floating plants to give them a sanctuary from aggressive tankmates.

Black Neon Tetra

Black Neon Tetras are a striking variant of the ever-popular Neon Tetra, showcasing an elegant black and silver color scheme are a top choice for a 10-gallon tank.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.8 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 1.5 inches (3.8 cm)
Temperature: 68-78°F (20-26°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 5-10 years
Behavior: Peaceful and schooling.

Best kept in groups of 6 or more for a comfortable social environment. They swim in the middle of the tank and can coexist with other peaceful, similarly-sized fish. Provide some aquatic plants for them to swim among.

Least Killifish

Least Killifish are small, easy-to-care-for fish that can add a touch of charm to your 10-gallon aquarium.

Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum (18.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: Up to 1.2 inches (3 cm)
Temperature: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Behavior: Peaceful and social, but does best in groups of their own kind.

They are livebearers, so small groups of females and males will produce more of these delightful fish. Compatible with other peaceful, similarly-sized species.

Otocinclus Catfish

Otocinclus Catfish are small, diligent algae-eaters that can help keep your 10-gallon tank clean.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Moderate
Adult Size: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
Temperature: 72-79°F (22-26°C)
Diet & Feeding: Herbivorous. Algae as their primary food, but also require supplementary feeding with blanched vegetables, algae wafers, or high-quality pellets.
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Behavior: Peaceful and social.

Prefers living in groups of at least 3 to feel comfortable. They enjoy finding hiding spots among plants and decorations. Compatible with other peaceful, similarly-sized fish species.

Platies

Platies are hardy, colorful fish known for their adaptability and easy care, making them perfect for beginners.

Tank Size: 10 gallons minimum (37.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm)
Temperature: 72-80°F (22-27°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. High-quality flakes, pellets, live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms, as well as vegetables.
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Behavior: Peaceful and social. Suitable for community tanks with other peaceful, similarly-sized species.

They are livebearers, so if you want to breed, ensure you have a mixed group of males and females. Provide hiding spots and plants for a comfortable environment.

Rice Fish

Rice Fish are hardy, adaptable fish that make a lovely addition to your 10-gallon aquarium.

Tank Size: 5 gallons minimum (18.9 liters)
Care Level: Easy
Adult Size: 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm)
Temperature: 64-75°F (18-24°C)
Diet & Feeding: Omnivorous. Quality flakes, micro-pellets, and live or frozen foods like daphnia, brine shrimp, and bloodworms.
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Behavior: Peaceful and social.

Prefers swimming in small schools, making them suitable for community tanks containing other peaceful, similarly-sized species. They appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, as well as floating plants for breeding purposes.

Tips for Choosing Fish for 10-Gallon Aquarium

Before choosing fish for your 10-gallon tank, it’s essential to consider a few factors. First, know theadult sizeof the fish; smaller species that grow up to 2 inches are more compatible with a 10-gallon tank.

Make sure to research thetemperamentof your chosen fish. Select species that are peaceful and can coexist with other tank mates without causing stress or aggressive behavior.

Take note of thewater parametersthat each fish species requires. It’s crucial to provide the appropriate water temperature, pH, and hardness levels to ensure the fishes’ health.

Remember thatschooling fishshould always be in groups of at least six. Allocating space for their social needs prevents stress-related issues within your aquarium community.

Check out thedietary needsof the fish species you’re interested in. A well-balanced diet, suitable for your fish selection, will contribute to their overall well-being and coloration.

Lastly, consider theaquarium layout and decoration preferencesof the fish you want. Some species prefer caves and hiding spots, while others love swimming in open spaces.

Make sure to research and carefully consider all aspects before introducing new fish to your 10-gallon tank. Providing the right environment, along with compatible tank mates, will ensure a successful and thriving aquarium community.

Conclusion

In a 10-gallon tank, you have a variety of beautiful, low-maintenance fish species to choose from. Dive into the world of fish-keeping and create a mesmerizing underwater ecosystem in your own home. Do you have any favorites from our list? Let us know in the comments!

20 Best Freshwater Fish Species for 10-Gallon Tanks - AquariumNexus (2024)