9 Pets To Keep in a 10 Gallon Fish Tank

There’s a wide range of animals that you can keep as a pet. I recently found a 10-gallon tank that I used to use for my small salamander as a kid, and it got me wondering what animals I could keep in it. While I found lots of cool options, I decided it's too small for any of the pets I'd want. So, I'll probably donate the 10 gallon tank or use it as a backup tank.

However, I know there are a lot of people who want a pet but don’t want the tank to take up too much space. While I always recommend getting a bigger tank when possible, there are some pets that can live a good life in a 10 gallon fish tank.

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Can You Keep Pets in a 10 Gallon Tank?

Yes, it’s possible to keep pets in a 10 gallon tank, but it depends on the exact animals. Most pets need a much larger tank than that, so don’t assume an animal can be kept in a small tank without doing your research first.

10 Gallon Tank Dimensions

Most 10 gallon aquariums are 20” x 10” x 12”. However, the size of the tank may vary depending on the brand you get, especially if the tank is tall instead of long. If you already have a tank, but you’re not sure how many gallons it is, use a tank volume calculator.

For Pet Enclosures, Bigger is Ideal

While 10 gallons might be lots of room for tiny animals, it's only the minimum size for many small species. If you’re able to give a pet more space, I always recommend it. Small pets spend their whole lives in their enclosure, so they deserve lots of room to explore. If you can’t upgrade to a bigger tank, try reorganizing the tank decorations every once in a while so they can explore a “new” space now and then.

Pets You Can Keep in a 10 Gallon Fish Tank

10 gallons is too small for many pets, but there are a few animals that do well in these enclosures. Consider the following pets if you want a small tank. If one seems interesting to you, make sure to thoroughly research their care requirements to help you decide if they’re right for you.

1. Betta Fish

The cups that betta fish come in at the pet store are not suitable as a long-term tank. While some sources say 5 gallons is the minimum tank size for a betta fish, 10 gallons is ideal. Make sure the tank you get is an aquarium and not a terrarium or vivarium since aquariums are specifically built to hold water. Like all pets, bettas need some things to keep them busy in their tank, such as plants, hiding places, and even toys. They thrive when kept alone since they can be aggressive toward other fish.

2. African Dwarf Frogs

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African dwarf frogs are some of the best pet frogs (they’re also some of the smallest). These 2-inch frogs are fully aquatic, so they need an aquarium. They do well when kept with other frogs, and it’s recommended that you have at least 5 gallons for one frog, along with an additional gallon or two per additional frog. So, 10 gallons is plenty of space if you only want a few of these amphibians.

3. Hermit Crabs

Hermit crabs are popular beginner pets because they can thrive in 10-gallon tanks and their care requirements aren't complex. Their tank should be filled with a suitable substrate, such as sand, fiber bedding, or crushed coral. They should have things to climb on and various shells to use. As they grow, they like to find a bigger shell to move into, which is why hermit crab enclosures usually have a variety of colorful shells lying around.

4. Guppies

Guppies are tiny fish that typically only grow two inches long. A 10-gallon tank is the minimum size, which is ideal for five to ten guppies. If you want more guppies together, get a larger tank so they have plenty of room to explore. Some guppies may fight, especially males, if they don’t have enough space. Guppies can reproduce quickly, so it’s a good idea to only have males or females in your aquarium.

5. Tetras

Tetras are another small fish species, and many people are drawn to them because they come in lots of vibrant colors. They typically grow between 2 and 3 inches long, but it depends on the exact species. 10 gallons is the absolute minimum tank size for these fish, fitting six to ten fish. Like guppies, more space is better if you plan to have more than ten tetras in a tank (if male and females are kept together, remember that the number of tetras will grow).

6. Isopods

If you don’t mind caring for creepy crawlies, isopods are great pets for small enclosures. They’re crustaceans that have both terrestrial and aquatic species, so choose one that fits what you’re looking for. They’re tiny enough that six to ten of them can fit in a 1.5-gallon enclosure. However, a 10-gallon enclosure gives them tons of space to explore and allows you to care for a much larger colony if you’d like.

7. Cherry Shrimp

Cherry shrimp are freshwater shrimp that are beloved for their stunning bright red coloring. They’re great beginner pets because they don’t require much human interaction, and their care requirements are fairly straightforward, as long as you properly cycle your aquarium before adding them. 8 to 12 gallons is ideal for them, so 10 gallons is perfectly in the middle of that. They typically thrive in groups of at least 10.

8. Snails

Snails might not be the most popular pets, but they sure are unique. They’re low-maintenance, don’t need much space, and don’t have unpleasant smells. Only some snails can be kept as pets, so make sure to check your local laws when choosing a species. While the minimum tank size for most snails is 5 gallons, most species thrive when they have a 10 gallon tank. Some snails can be kept with other pets while others prefer to be the only species in the tank.

9. Madagascar Hissing Cockroach

Madagascar hissing cockroaches are some of the best pet bugs. While some people are grossed out by cockroaches, many find these ones fascinating because they make a distinct hissing sound, sort of like the sound a spray bottle makes. They need at least a 5-gallon terrestrial tank, but 10 gallons is often more suitable because it gives them plenty of space to explore.

Where to Buy a 10 Gallon Fish Tank

You can buy 10 gallon tanks from pet supply stores or online retailers. Here are a few options to consider:

• Aqueon Aquarium Fish Tank Starter Kit (For aquatic animals - includes additional supplies)

• Carolina Aquarium Tank (For aquatic animals)

• Reptile Growth Terrarium (For terrestrial animals)

• Repti Zoo Amphibian Habitat Tank (Vertical terrestrial enclosure)

• Zilla 10 Gallon Pet Reptile Starter Habitat Kit (For terrestrial animals - includes additional supplies)

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Fish Fit in a 10 Gallon Tank?

It depends on the species. Tiny species like guppies and tetras can have up to 10 fish in a 10-gallon tank while bettas do better alone since they’re territorial. Many fish species are too big for a 10-gallon tank, so always research the enclosure requirements before getting a fish.

Does a 10 Gallon Fish Tank Need a Filter?

Yes, it’s a good idea to get a filter for a 10-gallon aquarium. Filters can help guarantee good water quality, keeping your pets healthy. Sponge filters can work great, but other filter types might be better for certain species. 

How Often Should You Clean a 10 Gallon Fish Tank?

10 gallon aquariums should be cleaned every one to two weeks. This includes removing debris with an aquarium vacuum and replacing a portion of the water (usually 10% to 25%). Do not replace all the water since that could remove some of the healthy bacteria.

How Heavy is a 10 Gallon Fish Tank?

An empty 10 gallon fish tank only weighs about 11 pounds, but it can weigh over 100 pounds when filled with water. Avoid transporting your aquarium while it’s full since there’s a high risk of it dropping and breaking.

10 Gallon Fish Tanks Are Only Ideal for Some Pets

10 gallons might be small for an aquarium or vivarium, but there are some pets that can live a great life in those tanks. This includes various tiny animals like fish, insects, and unique invertebrates. If you’re interested in any of the animals mentioned, thoroughly research their care requirements to decide if you can handle their needs.

Remember, for many pets, more space is better when possible. So, if 10 gallons is the minimum tank requirement for a species, consider upgrading to a larger tank to give them more room to explore.