23 Must Have Fish for a 10 Gallon Tank – 2023

If you’re thinking about setting up a 10 gallon fish freshwater fish tank, you’re in luck!

I have owned a few of these sized tanks over the years and they are very useful and are the perfect size for small fish and tight spaces.

There are plenty of fish species that can thrive in a tank of this size.

In this article, I’ll introduce you to the 23 must have fish for a 10 gallon tank.

Limitations of a 10 Gallon Fish Tank

One of the main limitations of a 10 gallon tank is its size.

It’s a relatively small tank, and as such, it can only accommodate a limited number of fish.

This means that you need to be careful when selecting fish species for your tank, as some species require more space than others.

Water quality is another important consideration when it comes to a 10 gallon tank.

With a smaller tank, it can be more difficult to maintain stable water parameters, and you may need to perform more frequent water changes to keep the water clean and healthy for your fish.

Fish for a 10 gallon tank

Celestial Pearl Danios

Celestial Pearl Danios (Danio margaritatus), also known as Galaxy Rasboras, are a beautiful and peaceful freshwater fish that are perfect for a 10 gallon tank.

They are small in size, growing up to a maximum of one inch, and these fish have a beautiful and unique appearance, with a metallic blue body and bright red spots.

Celestial Pearl Danios have a peaceful temperament and are easy to care for.

They are active swimmers and enjoy having plenty of space to move around, so a 10 gallon tank is perfect for a small shoal of 5-7 fish.

Whenever I have seen these fish in a pet store then the colors are very muted and the fish look very plain.

Don’t let this put you off buying them as they quickly color up once settled.

Zebra Danios

These are very active fish.

I know because I bought some a few days ago and their activity level is through the roof.

They don’t stop for a second and are darting throughout the whole tank.

It makes me tired just watching them.

These fish are known for their distinctive black and white stripes. These stripes give them a look that is hard to miss.

They also now come in a variety of neon colors.

Zebra Danios (Danio rerio) are social fish that do well in groups of 5-6 individuals.

They are also peaceful and get along well with other small, non-aggressive fish.

Zebra Danios typically grow to around 2 inches in length. This makes them an ideal choice for a small aquarium like a 10 gallon tank.

These fish are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of water conditions.

Chili Rasboras

If you’re looking for a small, colorful and peaceful fish for a 10 gallon tank, Chili Rasboras (Boraras brigittae) are a great option.

These tiny fish are known for their bright red coloration and are often referred to as Mosquito Rasboras.

Chili Rasboras are peaceful and social fish that thrive in groups.

They are very active and constantly swim around the tank, making them a great addition to any community tank.

They are also very easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners.

These fish are small, reaching a maximum size of 0.5 inches (1.3 cm).

This means that you can keep a school of 10 Chili Rasboras in a 10 gallon tank without any problems.

Ember Tetras

Ember Tetras (Hyphessobrycon amandae) are another popular choice for a 10 gallon tank due to their small size and ease of care.

These fish are known for their vibrant orange/red coloration and peaceful temperament, making them a great addition to any community tank.

Ember Tetras are relatively small, growing to only around 1 inch in length.

They are schooling fish, so it’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least 6 to 8 individuals.

In a 10 gallon tank, you can comfortably keep a small group of Ember Tetras along with some other compatible species.

These fish are generally easy to care for, as they are not particularly sensitive to water conditions.

They will do well in a planted tank with plenty of hiding places and swimming space.

Beckford’s Pencilfish

Beckford’s Pencilfish (Nannostomus beckfordi) is a more active yet peaceful schooling fish that is perfect for a 10 gallon tank.

These slender, torpedo-shaped fish are native to Guyana and the lower Amazon and grow up to 1.5 inches in size.

They have a unique appearance with their elongated body and bright red fins.

Beckford’s Pencilfish is a schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least six.

They prefer soft and slightly acidic water and do well in a planted tank.

They are not a common fish to find in the store, but they are worth the effort to find.

In a 10 gallon tank, you can keep up to six Beckford’s Pencilfish along with other peaceful fish.

Neon Tetras

Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi) are very common fish and they can be found in most fish keepers tanks.

These fish have a distinctive blue and red stripe down their body, making them easily recognizable.

The blue stripe goes the whole length of the body while the red stripe goes about half way.

They are also relatively small, growing to only about 1.5 inches in length.

This means you can keep a group of them in a 10 gallon tank without overcrowding.

Neon Tetras are peaceful and get along well with other non-aggressive fish.

They are also very active swimmers, making them a joy to watch.

Keep them in a school of at least six to eight fish to prevent them from becoming stressed.

They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, and they require a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.

They are omnivores and will eat both flake and frozen foods.

Apistogramma Dwarf Cichlids

If you’re looking for a vibrant and lively fish for a 10 gallon tank, Apistogramma dwarf cichlids are a great choice.

These fish are also known as apistos and are loved by aquarists for their curious personalities and beautiful colors.

Apistogramma dwarf cichlids are small fish that grow to be about 2-3 inches long.

They come in a variety of colors and patterns, including red, orange, blue, and yellow.

These fish have a distinctive shape, with a large head and a tapered body that ends in a forked tail.

Some of them also have a series of horizontal stripes on their sides that give them a unique look.

Apistogramma dwarf cichlids can become aggressive during breeding season.

They are also territorial, so provide them with plenty of hiding places in your tank.

These fish are known for their curious personalities and love to explore their surroundings.

They prefer soft, slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

I am very familiar with Apistos and have bred them for a few years.

My recommendation is to only have a single pair in a 10 gallon tank.

Cardinal Tetras

Cardinal Tetras (Paracheirodon axelrodi) look very similar to Neon Tetras.

The main difference is that the red stripe on a Cardinal Tetra runs the whole length of the body whereas in the Neon Tetra the red stripe stops half way.

Cardinal Tetras are also known for their peaceful temperament, making them an ideal choice for community tanks with other peaceful fish.

They are schooling fish, so it’s recommended to keep them in groups of at least 6-8 for their well-being.

These fish are relatively small, growing to around 2 inches in length, making them a great addition to a smaller tank like a 10 gallon.

They are also relatively easy to care for, with a pH range of 4.6 to 6.2 and a temperature range of 73°F to 81°F.

Glowlight Tetras

If you want a colorful and peaceful fish for a 10 gallon tank, you should consider the Glowlight Tetra (Hemigrammus erythrozonus).

These small fish are native to Guyana and have a bright orange stripe that runs along their body, making them a beautiful addition to any aquarium.

Glowlight Tetras are known for their peaceful temperament, making them a great choice for community tanks.

They are small in size, typically growing to be around 1-1.5 inches long, which means you can keep several of them in a 10 gallon tank.

They prefer to live in schools of at least six, so keep that in mind when planning your aquarium.

To keep your Glowlight Tetras healthy, you should aim to keep the water temperature between 74°F and 82°F, with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5.

Kubotai Rasboras

If you’re looking for a tiny and peaceful fish to add to your 10 gallon tank, Kubotai Rasboras (Microdevario kubotai) might be just what you need.

These fish are native to Myanmar and Thailand and are also known as Neon Green Rasboras.

Kubotai Rasboras are tiny, usually measuring around 0.75 inches in length.

They have a bright neon green body with a faint black stripe that runs horizontally along their sides.

Their fins are transparent with a hint of yellow, which adds to their overall beauty.

These fish are peaceful and do well in a community tank.

They are not aggressive and won’t bother other fish or even shrimp. They are also not prone to jumping out of the tank, which is a plus.

You can keep up to 10 of them in a tank of this size, but make sure you don’t overcrowd the tank.

They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding spots, so make sure you add some plants and decorations to your tank.

Otocinclus Catfish

Otocinclus catfish (Otocinclus sp.) are small, typically growing to only about 2 inches in length.

They have a distinctive, torpedo-shaped body and a sucker mouth that they use to attach to surfaces in the tank.

Their coloration is typically brown or gray with a white underside. 

Otocinclus catfish are peaceful and non-aggressive.

They are social creatures and should be kept in groups of at least 4-6 individuals.

These catfish are generally easy to care for, as long as their tank is kept clean and well-maintained.

They are omnivores and will eat algae, plant matter, and small amounts of commercial fish food.

They prefer a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding places. 

You can safely house 4 to 6 Otos in a 10 gallon tank.

Pygmy Corydoras

Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus) is a tiny and peaceful fish that is perfect for a 10 gallon community tank.

These pint-sized creatures don’t require much room at all, favoring well-decorated environments filled with decor.

Pygmy Corydoras have a unique appearance.

They have a silver body with a black stripe running from their nose to their tail.

They also have a black spot on their dorsal fin.

These fish are very active and love to swim around the tank.

They are also very social and love to be in groups, so it is recommended to keep at least six of them together.

Pygmy Corydoras are very easy to look after, making them perfect for beginners.

They are hardy fish that can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.

They prefer soft and slightly acidic water, but they can adapt to a variety of water conditions.

They are also not picky eaters and will eat almost anything you feed them, including flakes, pellets, and frozen food.

Harlequin Rasboras

Harlequin Rasboras (Trigonostigma heteromorpha) have a distinctive appearance with a silver body and black triangular patch on their side.

They are small in size, reaching only 2 inches in length.

They are a schooling fish and should be kept in groups of at least 6-8 to ensure their social needs are met.

These fish are very peaceful and get along well with other non-aggressive fish. They are also very active and enjoy swimming around the tank.

Harlequin Rasboras are easy to care for and don’t require any special attention.

They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

They prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH level and a temperature range of 73-82°F.

You can have up to 8 Harlequin Rasboras in a 10 gallon tank.

Lyretail Killifish

The Lyretail Killifish (Aphyosemion australe) is a beautiful and colorful species that can add a lot of character to your 10 gallon tank.

These fish are native to West Africa and are known for their long and flowing tails, which resemble the feathers of a bird.

Lyretail Killifish are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish.

They are also relatively easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginner aquarists.

These fish are active swimmers and enjoy having plenty of space to move around.

Lyretail Killifish are small in size, growing to around 2 inches in length.

They are best kept in groups of 3-4 in a 10 gallon tank.

It is important to provide them with plenty of hiding places and plants to mimic their natural environment.

These fish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

Endler’s Livebearers

If you’re looking for a colorful and easy-to-care-for fish for a 10 gallon tank, Endler’s Livebearers (poecilia wingei) might be the perfect choice for you.

These fish are a great alternative to guppies, and they are often considered to be more colorful and active than their close relatives.

Endler’s Livebearers are small, hardy fish that are easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginners.

They are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish, but it’s best to keep them in a species-only tank if you want to see their full potential.

Endler’s Livebearers are a colorful fish, with males being the most striking.

They come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and black.

They also have a unique pattern of spots and stripes that make them stand out in any tank.

These fish are small, growing to no more than 1.5 inches in length, which makes them perfect for a 10 gallon tank.

You can keep up to 8 Endler’s Livebearers in a 10 gallon tank, but it’s best to start with a smaller group and let them breed to increase their numbers.

Endler’s Livebearers are easy to care for and require a basic setup.

They prefer a temperature range of 72-82°F, a pH range of 6.5-8.0, and moderately hard water.

If you’re looking for a colorful, active, and easy-to-care-for fish to add to your 10 gallon tank, Endler’s Livebearers are an excellent choice.

White Cloud Mountain Minnows

White Cloud Mountain Minnows (Tanichthys albonubes) are another great option.

These fish are native to China and are known for their peaceful temperament and attractive appearance.

White Cloud Mountain Minnows are small fish that usually grow to be around 1.5 inches in length.

They have a silver body with a bright red tail and dorsal fin.

There is also an albino variety that has a pale yellow body with bright red fins and tail.

They are also very active and love to swim around, making them fun to watch.

One of the best things about White Cloud Mountain Minnows is how easy they are to care for.

They can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, including a pH between 6.5 and 8.5 and temperatures between 65 and 77°F.

They can even survive in unheated tanks making them truly versatile.

They do best in groups of five or more, so a 10 gallon tank can comfortably house a small school of these fish.

They also do well with other small, peaceful fish like Zebra Danios and Bloodfin Tetras.

Licorice Gourami

These are not the easiest fish to care for so I would only recommend experienced fish keepers giving them a go.

The Licorice Gourami (Parosphromenus deissneri) is a stunning fish.

Licorice gouramis boast a shimmering silver body adorned with black vertical stripes extending from the base of their dorsal fin to the crown of their head.

Their tail, belly, and back fin display a dazzling combination of blue, green, and red shades, creating a visually striking appearance, particularly when housed in an aquarium with a dark substrate.

The males have longer fins than females, and they can grow up to 2 inches in length.

When it comes to temperament, the Licorice Gourami is generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish.

However, it’s important to note that they can be territorial and may become aggressive towards their own species or fish with similar coloring.

As for care, the Licorice Gourami prefers low light levels and plenty of vegetation in their tank.

They also require a pH range between 3 and 6.5 and a temperature between 72-82°F.

When it comes to how many Licorice Gouramis can fit in a 10 gallon tank, it’s important to remember that they need plenty of space to swim and hide.

It’s recommended to keep only one male with a couple of females in a 10 gallon tank.

Overcrowding can lead to stress and aggression.

Betta Fish

Betta fish (Betta splendens), also known as Siamese fighting fish, are a popular choice for fish for a 10 gallon tank.

They are known for their vibrant colors and flowing fins.

These fish are relatively easy to care for and are normally the first pet fish that people buy.

When it comes to temperament, male bettas are known for their aggression towards other male bettas.

They will fight to the death if housed together.

Betta fish typically grow to be around 2-3 inches in length, making them a great option for a 10 gallon tank.

They require a water temperature between 76-82°F and a pH level between 6.5-7.5.

They are also known to appreciate plants and hiding spots in their tank.

Only house one male betta in a 10 gallon tank.

Never keep a male and female betta together in the same tank.

Female bettas can be housed in a group but they need a bigger tank of at least 30 gallons.

Kuhli Loaches

Kuhli Loaches (Pangio kuhlii) are a popular choice for beginner fish keepers.

These unique fish have an eel-like appearance and are known for their bristly whiskers around their mouths.

They are peaceful fish and can be kept with other non-aggressive species.

Kuhli Loaches typically grow to be around 4 inches in length and are best kept in groups of 6 or more.

They are hardy fish and can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, although they prefer water with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5 and a hardness rating of no more than 5.0 dGH.

When it comes to feeding, Kuhli Loaches are not picky eaters and will happily eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and frozen or live foods.

They are also known to eat snails, so it’s best not to keep them with snails in the same tank.

If you’re looking to add Kuhli Loaches to your 10 gallon tank, it’s recommended to start with 6 fish.

They are active swimmers and will appreciate a well-planted tank with plenty of hiding places.

You can also add a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat.

Cherry Barb

I almost always seem to have a tank with Cherry Barbs (Puntius titteya) in it.

They are peaceful and friendly fish that are perfect for community tanks.

They are small, colorful, and easy to care for, making them a great choice for beginners.

Male Cherry Barbs have a bright red coloration, which makes them stand out in any aquarium.

Females are more dull but are just as beautiful in their own right.

These fish are social creatures and should be kept in groups of at least six.

They are relatively small, growing up to two inches in length, which makes them suitable for a 10 gallon tank.

You can keep up to six Cherry Barbs in a 10 gallon tank, but make sure you don’t overcrowd the tank as it can lead to stress and health problems.

Cherry Barbs are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of water conditions.

They prefer slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 and a temperature range of 72-82°F.

They are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods.

Sparkling Gourami

The Sparkling Gourami (Trichopsis pumila) is another great option for you to consider.

These fish are native to Southeast Asia and are known for their vibrant colors and sparkling scales.

Sparkling Gouramis are small in size, growing up to 1.5 inches in length.

Their body has a brown base color covered with small colorful spots in green, blue and grey.

The fins usually have a brown or dark orange edging.

These fish are peaceful and can be kept with other peaceful fish in a community tank.

They are also known for their interesting behavior, as they like to swim near the surface of the water and create bubble nests.

Another interesting aspect is that these fish make a ‘croaking’ noise when they are happy.

When it comes to care, Sparkling Gouramis are relatively easy to look after.

They prefer a slightly acidic water pH between 6.0 and 7.0 and a temperature range of 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit.

These fish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including flakes, pellets, and live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms.

In terms of tank size, you can keep 1-2 Sparkling Gouramis in a 10 gallon tank.

Fancy Guppy

These small, active fish are known for their vibrant colors and flowing fins.

Fancy Guppies (Poecilia reticulata) come in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid colors, metallic hues, and even iridescent shades.

Males are typically more colorful than females and have longer, flowing tails.

Females tend to be larger and have rounder bodies.

When it comes to temperament, Fancy Guppies are peaceful and social fish that enjoy swimming and exploring their environment.

They are also known for their playful behavior, often darting around and chasing each other.

They are a great addition to a community tank and can coexist with other peaceful fish.

As for size, Fancy Guppies typically grow to be around 1.5 to 2.5 inches in length.

They are small enough to fit comfortably in a 10 gallon tank and can be kept in groups of 5 to 7 fish.

Males can be aggressive towards each other, so it’s best to keep a higher ratio of females to males in the tank.

Fancy Guppies are relatively easy to look after and breed like rabbits.

They require a well-filtered tank with a temperature between 72 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

They also need a varied diet of high-quality flakes, pellets, and frozen or live foods.

Pea Puffer

The Pea Puffer (Carinotetraodon travancoricus, also known as the Indian Dwarf Puffer, is a small freshwater fish that is a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts.

These tiny fish are only about an inch in size, making them a great option for a 10 gallon tank.

Pea Puffers have a unique appearance with their round bodies and bright yellow coloration.

They are also known for their big eyes and small, sharp teeth.

Despite their small size, these fish have a big personality and are known to be quite feisty.

They are not recommended for community tanks as they can be aggressive towards other fish.

Pea Puffers are relatively easy to care for, but they do require a bit of attention.

They prefer a heavily planted tank with plenty of hiding places.

They are also sensitive to water conditions, so it’s important to keep the water clean and well-maintained.

Because of their size and temperament, Pea Puffers are best kept in small groups of 3-4.

They are also carnivorous and require a diet of small live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.

Tips on Stocking a 10 Gallon Tank

Here are some things to consider when stocking your freshwater aquarium:

• Choose fish that are compatible: When selecting fish for your 10 gallon tank, it’s important to choose species that are compatible with each other. Some fish are more aggressive than others and may not do well in a community tank. Do your research and choose fish that have similar temperaments and water requirements.
• Pay attention to water quality: Water quality is crucial to the health of your fish. Make sure you have a good filtration system in place and perform regular water changes to keep the water clean and healthy. Test the water regularly to ensure that the pH, ammonia, and nitrate levels are within acceptable ranges.
• Consider live plants: Live plants not only add beauty to your aquarium, but they also help to oxygenate the water and provide a natural habitat for your fish. Some good options for a 10 gallon tank include Java Moss, Anubias, and Amazon Sword.
• Keep an eye on behavior: Pay attention to the behavior of your fish to ensure that they are healthy and happy. If you notice any unusual behavior, such as lethargy or aggression, it may be a sign of a problem.
• Choose hardy fish: Some fish are more sensitive than others and may not do well in a 10 gallon tank. Consider choosing hardy species that can tolerate a range of water conditions.
• Avoid overstocking: It can be tempting to add as many fish as possible to your 10 gallon tank, but overstocking can lead to stress, disease, and poor water quality. As a general rule, aim for no more than one inch of fish per gallon of water.
• Choose the right filtration system: A good filtration system is essential to the health of your fish. Consider choosing a system that is designed for a 10 gallon tank and provides adequate mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration.

Final Thoughts

A 10 gallon fish tank can be a great choice for freshwater fish enthusiasts who want to keep a small but thriving aquarium.

With the right selection of fish, plants, and equipment, you can create a beautiful and healthy environment for your aquatic pets.

From the colorful Betta to the playful Corydoras, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to stocking your 10 gallon tank.

Just remember to research each species carefully and provide them with the proper care and conditions they need to thrive.

With some patience and dedication, you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of a freshwater aquarium right in your own home.