Red wag platy

Is there really a main rule for what size aquarium to keep what size fish in? Does it differ depending on the species? I've heard 1 gallon per inch, but you wouldn't keep a ten inch pleco in a 10 gallon tank, right? And for goldfish I've heard 2 gallons per inch, 3o square inches per inch, and put one in a 20 gallon and 10 gallons for each fish. Does it really count if you have a small catfish, like a cory? What's the rule for regular freshwater fish, livebearers, barbs, tetras, etc.

KittieKat

well actually ure close. its more like for every inch of full grown fish there should be about 1.5-2 gallons (for comfort and waste managment).

right again.. u wouldnt keep a 10in pleco in a 10 gallon. theres also a point where fish need to be able to swim, be comfortable, not run into things, turn around etc.. for a pleco usually 55 gallons or bigger is a great size.

goldfish create much more waste than the average bear yogi so yes a 20gal tank for the 1st goldfish and 10 gal per next goldfish... keep in mind that goldfish can get HUGE when given the space so bigger is always better in any tank sizing.

it does count for cories because they too create waste. so if u have a cory that grows to 2 inches when an adult and u have a 10 gal tank. u could get 5 cories (theoretically) but no other fish.

just use these simple rules:
1. bigger is ALWAYS better!
2. try to have 2 gallons per full grown inch of fish
3. consider the adult size when viewing the front, and sides of the tank (if the fish cant turn around the tank isnt big enough)
4. when counting the inches of fish it includes ALL fish; fish from all zones of the tank, such as, upper, middle, bottom.
5. the type of fish does matter. some need more room than others to thrive. do plenty of research before buying ur fish.

susitna-flower

Hi, Red Wag, Sounds like you have the idea.

1" of ADULT fish per gallon of tank....MAX

If they are large, thick fish ie., bela sharks, common pleco, oscars etc., 1 cubic inch per gallon, is a better measure. Corys are thick, but they would fall more in the 1" / gal rule. Every fish is different in the amount of waste they take out or add to a tank.

Corys take waste out, they don't really count like some others, this is why even though they are "thick" it works out.

Gold fish and many cichlids are messy so you can't stock to the max with them.

It is a matter of adjusting water changes, the size tank, stocking, and feeding practices with the fish you choose... Always go light on fish, it will work out better for you in the end..

COBettaCouple

The 1 gallon per adult inch guideline only applies to small fish really, with a few exceptions like the Dwarf Puffers. Small cats, like corys, would fall under this guideline.

Larger fish are more individual.. like how Goldies need 20g, Plecos 55-75g, Oscars 120g.

Allie

Yeah some small fish are super aggressive and need more space. It really depends on what type, size and temperament the fish you choose have.