Selecting the right fish can be daunting for those new to aquariums or looking to set up a new tank.
The right fish for a 20-gallon tank should be colorful, lively, and sturdy enough to withstand water conditions.
Schooling fish are perfect for this tank size as they add color and movement and offer a sense of community.
Here’s a quick list of the 11 best schooling fish for a 20-gallon tank;
- Neon Tetra
- Harlequin Rasbora
- Cherry Barb
- Dwarf Gourami
- Zebra Danio
- Endler’s Livebearer
- Glowlight Tetra
- Ember Tetra
- Cardinal Tetra
- Black Neon Tetra
- White Cloud Mountain Minnow
Contents
Neon Tetra
Neon Tetra is a popular and attractive fish among hobbyists. These fish can live up to 5 years and should be kept in groups of six or more.
They require a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0 and a temperature range of 70°F to 81°F.
Harlequin Rasbora
Harlequin Rasbora is a peaceful and active schooling fish that adds vibrancy to the aquarium.
They are easy to care for and can adapt to different water conditions.
They thrive in groups of six or more, requiring a temperature range of 72°F to 80°F and a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Cherry Barb
Cherry Barb is a hardy and peaceful fish that is perfect for beginners.
They come in bright red colors and require a temperature range of 73°F to 81°F and a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
They thrive in groups of six or more.
Dwarf Gourami
Dwarf Gourami is a beautiful and peaceful fish that comes in various colors.
They require a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 and a temperature range of 77°F to 82°F.
They are best kept in pairs or small groups of 3-4 and require plenty of hiding spaces.
Zebra Danio
Zebra Danio is a small, active, hardy fish perfect for a beginner’s tank.
They thrive in groups of six or more, requiring a pH level of 6.5 to 7.5 and a temperature range of 65°F to 77°F.
Endler’s Livebearer
Endler’s Livebearer is a colorful and peaceful fish perfect for small tanks.
They require a pH level of 7.0 to 8.0 and a temperature range of 72°F to 82°F. They thrive in groups of six or more.
Glowlight Tetra
Glowlight Tetra is a small, vibrant fish that adds color and liveliness to the tank.
They require a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0 and a temperature range of 72°F to 82°F. They thrive in groups of six or more.
Ember Tetra
Ember Tetra is a small, peaceful fish perfect for a 20-gallon tank.
They come in bright red colors and require a pH of 6.0 to 7.0 and a temperature range of 75°F to 82°F. They thrive in groups of six or more.
Cardinal Tetra
Cardinal Tetra is a popular and attractive fish suitable for a 20-gallon tank.
They require a pH of 5.0 to 7.0 and a temperature range of 72°F to 81°F. They thrive in groups of six or more and need plenty of hiding spaces.
Black Neon Tetra
Black Neon Tetra is a beautiful and peaceful fish that adds contrast to the aquarium.
They require a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0 and a temperature range of 72°F to 81°F. They thrive in groups of six or more and need plenty of hiding spaces.
White Cloud Mountain Minnow
White Cloud Mountain Minnow is a small, peaceful fish perfect for a 20-gallon tank.
They come in various colors and require a pH of 6.0 to 8.0 and a temperature range of 64°F to 72°F. They thrive in groups of six or more.
When selecting the right fish for your 20-gallon tank, it is crucial to consider the number of fish that can comfortably inhabit the space.
A 20-gallon tank can accommodate six to eight small schooling fish, depending on the species.
Aside from schooling fish, consider adding other fish species as tank mates. Here are a few options to consider:
- Betta Fish: Betta Fish are solitary fish that can live in a 15-gallon tank with a filter. They require a pH level of 6.5 to 8.0 and a temperature range of 76°F to 81°F. It is important to note that Betta Fish are territorial and may not do well with other fish species.
- Guppies: Guppies are small and colorful fish that require a pH level of 7.0 to 8.2 and a temperature range of 72°F to 82°F. They can live in a 10-gallon tank and thrive in groups of three or more. It is important to note that male guppies can be aggressive toward each other.
When setting up your 20-gallon tank, you will also need to consider the type of substrate and filter you will be using.
Fluval Stratum substrate is an excellent option as it is made from volcanic soil and helps stabilize the water’s pH level.
As for the filter, the best aquarium filter for a 20-gallon tank would be a hang-on-back filter or a canister filter.
In conclusion, adding schooling fish to your 20-gallon tank can add color, movement, and a sense of community to the aquarium.
When selecting the right fish, consider the number of fish that can comfortably inhabit the space and their specific requirements.
Adding other fish species as tank mates can also enhance the overall aesthetic of the aquarium.
And remember to invest in a good substrate and filter for optimal water conditions.
- The Top 11 Schooling Fish for a 20-Gallon Tank: A Guide for Aquarium Enthusiasts - March 11, 2023
- Best Schooling Fish for Small Aquariums: 11 Top Choices - March 11, 2023
- Choosing the Best Schooling Fish for Planted Aquariums - March 11, 2023
