bb1252

I have had this 10 gal. for about 2 months. I let it cycle, then added about half the fish then waited to add a few more. I now have 2-sunburst platies, 1-dalmatian molly, 1-betta, and 4-cardinal tetras. Is this overcrowded for my size tank? I have a HOB filter, 4 fake plants, 1/2" of gravel, an airstone and a small rock tunnel.

capekate

Hello BB1252 and welcome to fishlore!
Your ten gal tank is way overstocked. If you go by the rule: 1 inch of fish to each gal you can see this by adding up the adult size of your selected fish.
You have some wonderful fish there, and Im sorry to say that it may be a good idea to find a 20g tank and transfer your filter and decorations, gravel etc to that tank and then add your fish. Also, your Betta fish would be much happier in its own 5-10g tank. They dont do well in a community tank setting.
This may be not what your were looking for in an answer, but I have a feeling that you have been questioning this and needing validation. It may be time to look for a larger tank, and then you can leave the Betta in the ten?

Alessa

Yesk like capekate said you are way overstocked. you shoud definately get a larger tank and leave the betta in the 10. As stated above, bettas should have their own tank.

and welcome to fishlore

sirdarksol

Welcome to Fishlore! Excellent advice above.

bb1252

okay, so I want to move my betta, but I am investing in a 90g soon and cant afford three tanks. So, my only options are to leave the betta in the overstocked 10g, or put him in a flower vase type thing with gravel (about 2.5quarts). Would it be better to keep him alone in such a small area or leave him in the overstocked community? Thank you all for the warm welcome!

capekate

thats a tough call! Your ten is so overstocked.. and your Betta may not be very happy in there til you get your 90g tank. But it wouldnt be very happy in a vase either. Once you get your 90g ( instead of a 20?) you can transport your current stock minus the Betta and leave the 10g for the betta without having to have three tanks.
Good luck with them, I hope your Betta will fair well til you get the new tank up and running.

Alessa

That is an awesome advice there! if not, there are 5 gal hex at walmart at 29.99