Wondering how to make the most of your 20 gallon fish tank? Uncertain about the number and type of fish that can thrive in such a space?
Dive into our comprehensive guide tailored just for you! Unlock the secrets of maximizing the potential of 20 gallon fish tank, ensuring a healthy environment for your aquatic friends, and enhancing the aesthetics of your space. Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or a novice dipping your toes into the world of fishkeeping, there’s something valuable here for everyone.
Is a 20-gallon fish tank a suitable tank size?
For young goldfish, especially those up to 3 inches, a 20 gallon fish tank serves as a temporary home. However, as they grow, they will require more space. It’s important to remember that goldfish, in particular, can grow quite large, and a 20 gallon fish tank will only be suitable for them for about a year.
On a broader note, a 20 gallon tank is indeed an admirable choice for beginners. It provides a more spacious environment compared to a 10 gallon tank, allowing fish enthusiasts to explore a wider variety of aquatic life. Furthermore, the larger water volume is more forgiving, offering a cushion against potential mistakes or oversight in maintenance.
What equipment do I need for a 20 gallon fish tank?
If you’re considering a 20 gallon tank, here’s a checklist to help you get started:
- Filter: Opt for a filter suitable for over 100 liters. Most filters specify their capacity, so choose one that meets or exceeds the needs of a 20 gallon fish tank.
- Lighting: While not absolutely necessary, an LED aquarium light enhances visibility, especially during daytime hours. If you’re leaning towards a planted aquarium, lighting is crucial for plant growth.
- Heater: For those interested in a tropical tank, a 100-watt glass aquarium heater will ensure the water remains at the optimal temperature.
- Décor: Personalize your aquarium with sand or gravel for the base, complemented by plants, rocks, or driftwood.
Many aquarium kits come complete with essential equipment, but always double-check to ensure you have everything needed.
Should I consider getting a 20 gallon fish tank?
20-gallon tanks strike a balance – they’re spacious enough for a diverse aquatic community but compact enough for easy maintenance. Their length often surpasses their height, which not only provides a unique view but also makes them cost-effective due to thinner glass.
However, it’s essential to plan your fish community wisely. While a 20 gallon tank can temporarily accommodate young goldfish, they will outgrow it. Instead, the tank is perfectly suited for smaller tropical or coldwater fish such as guppies, tetras, and danios.
What are the best 20 gallon fish tank?
We’ve carefully assessed the current market offerings and, in the spirit of providing an unbiased perspective, have handpicked one of the most popular 20 gallon aquariums out there.
Juwel Primo
The Juwel Primo lineup has a range of sizes, but two of its stars are the Primo 110 and Primo 70, holding roughly 110 and 70 litres respectively. To clarify, the Primo 110 is slightly over 20 imperial gallons, while the Primo 70 comes a tad below 20 American gallons.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Suitability | Perfect for beginners with ample swimming space for fish. | – |
| Kit Inclusivity | Comes bundled with essential equipment: a filter, heater, and light. | – |
| Filter System | The bioflow one filter suits the tank size and houses a compartment for the heater, promoting even heating. | Limited to Juwel-branded products, which affects modularity. |
| Construction | Durable and versatile, suitable for various placements. | Fragile plastic lid that may not endure heavy pressure and might break. |
| Lighting | Energy-efficient LED strip lighting conducive for plant growth. | Better options available for serious plant enthusiasts. |
Fluval Roma 90
Holding a capacity of 90 liters, which translates to roughly 20 imperial or 24 American gallons, the Fluval Roma 90 comes fully equipped for your fishkeeping needs.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Suitability | Perfect for beginners with ample swimming space for fish. | – |
| Kit Inclusivity | Comes bundled with essential equipment: a filter, heater, and light. | – |
| Filter System | The bioflow one filter suits the tank size and houses a compartment for the heater, promoting even heating. | Limited to Juwel-branded products, affecting modularity. |
| Construction | Durable and versatile, suitable for various placements. The glass structure exudes professional craftsmanship. | Fragile plastic lid may not endure heavy pressure and might break. |
| Lighting | Energy-efficient LED strip lighting conducive for plant growth. Can be controlled via Bluetooth. | Better options available for serious plant enthusiasts. |
| Design | Lid is flexible, resistant, and easily removable. Features convenient holes for equipment wires and tubes. | – |
| Equipment Quality | Kit includes an adjustable Fluval filter (either U2 or U3) and a matching heater. | Some users have reported the bundled Fluval heater to have a limited lifespan. |
Marina LED Aquarium Kit
This series offers a 75-liter tank, equivalent to 20 US gallons or 16 imperial gallons.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Suitability | Perfect for beginners with ample swimming space for fish. | – |
| Kit Inclusivity | Comprehensive kit includes an energy-efficient LED light, a heater, and a hang-on-back filter with replaceable media. | – |
| Filter System | Hang-on-back filter comes equipped with replaceable floss and carbon media. | The filter uses floss instead of a bioactive sponge, necessitating monthly replacements. |
| Construction | Square in shape with a strong glass structure promising durability. | – |
| Lighting | Energy-efficient LED light included in the kit. | – |
| Design | – | The plastic lid tends to be fragile. |
Aqueon Leddy
This series caters to a range of sizes. The Leddy 75 and 105 cater to the 20 gallon range based on US and imperial measurements, respectively.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Suitability | Suitable for both freshwater and marine setups. | – |
| Kit Inclusivity | Comprehensive kit includes an energy-efficient LED light, a heater, and a hang-on-back filter with replaceable media. | – |
| Filter System | Hang-on-back filter comes equipped with replaceable floss and carbon media. | Filters tend to decline in effectiveness over time. |
| Construction | Tanks are well-constructed and durable. | – |
| Lighting | Energy-efficient LED lights capable of supporting plant growth. Features an additional blue setting. | – |
| Design | – | The plastic lid can be a bit fragile. |
Tetra 20 Gallon Complete Aquarium Kit
Designed for versatility, the tank is suitable for both freshwater and marine setups, allowing you to house a variety of fish and aquatic plants.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Kit Inclusivity | Comprehensive kit includes a 20-gallon glass tank, LED hood, Tetra Mini UL Heater, and the Whisper 20 Filter. | Design leans towards Tetra products, limiting compatibility with accessories from other brands. |
| Tank Quality | High-quality, scratch-resistant tank ensures a clear view of your aquatic environment. | – |
| Lighting | Effective LED hood supports plant growth and enhances aesthetic appeal. | – |
| Filtration | Whisper 20 Filter efficiently maintains a clean and contaminant-free habitat. | – |
| Temperature Control | Tetra Mini UL Heater maintains consistent warmth, crucial for tropical species. | – |
| User Guidance | Comes with Tetra’s beginner-friendly care guide. | – |
| Future-proofing | – | Seasoned aquarists may seek upgrades for more specialized setups. |
Coralife Biocube
Perfect for those who wish to curate a mini-reef or house a tranquil community of freshwater species, the Biocube’s 20 gallon capacity is a testament to Coralife’s innovative design prowess.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| System Integration | All-in-one system integrates filtration, advanced lighting, and other essentials, eliminating the need for external attachments. | Integrated system might limit adaptability for incorporating specific external components. |
| Aesthetics | Compact footprint with a modern look complements both personal and professional spaces. | – |
| Design | User-friendly, hinged top ensures easy accessibility and houses an advanced LED lighting system. | – |
| Lighting | Programmable LED lights allow for natural day-night rhythms, crucial for corals and plants. | – |
| Filtration | Discreet, three-stage filtration process guarantees water clarity without external intrusions or unsightly cables. | – |
| Ease of Setup | Hassle-free, near pre-assembled experience with a plug-and-play approach. | – |
| Size and Versatility | – | 20 gallon size might be constraining for those aiming to host a larger aquatic community. |
Seaclear Acrylic Aquarium Combo Set
Tailored for those who prioritize both longevity and an immersive viewing experience, this 20 gallon marvel showcases what modern aquarium technology has to offer.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Material Strength | Acrylic build is approximately 17 times stronger and lighter than glass, reducing susceptibility to damage. | – |
| Visual Clarity | Offers crisp, clear views without the greenish tint common in many glass tanks. | – |
| Kit Components | Comes with electrical light fixture and reflector as part of the combo set. | Included accessories may vary depending on the point of purchase, leading to inconsistencies. |
| Customization Options | Hood can host diverse filtration systems, allowing you to fine-tune according to your preferences. | Additional essentials like filters and heaters have to be purchased separately, increasing initial setup cost. |
| Design Versatility | Suitable for both freshwater and marine setups. | – |
| Temperature Stability | Acrylic’s natural insulating properties ensure minimal temperature fluctuations, providing a stable environment for aquatic life. | – |
Top Fin Essential 20 Gallon Aquarium Starter Kit
Enter the Top Fin Essential 20 Gallon Aquarium Starter Kit: a well-curated ensemble tailored to provide a smooth sail for budding aquarists.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Completeness of Kit | All-inclusive kit contains almost everything needed, from a heater to a net. | Seasoned aquarists may find the components basic and might consider upgrading in the future. |
| Quality of Tank | 20-gallon glass aquarium offers durability and aesthetic appeal. | – |
| Lighting | Built-in LED lighting is both visually appealing and energy-efficient. | – |
| Filtration | Top Fin Silentstream Power Filter offers silent yet effective water filtration. | Specific cartridge requirement for the filter could lead to recurring costs. |
| Temperature Control | 100-watt adjustable heater ensures a comfortable environment for tropical species. | – |
| Setup Guide | Included guide provides detailed instructions from setup to cycling, beneficial for beginners. | – |
| Additional Extras | Thermometer and net included, highlighting the attention to detail in the kit. | – |
Penn Plax Curved Corner Glass Aquarium Kit
Catering to those with an eye for modern design, this 20 gallon aquarium kit marries elegance with versatility.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| Design | Curved corners provide a panoramic and visually appealing view of the tank’s interior. | The unique curved design may pose challenges when cleaning, particularly in reaching corners. |
| Construction | High-quality glass construction ensures durability and a clear viewing experience. | – |
| Lighting | Slim hood with adjustable LED light settings offers both aesthetic and functional benefits, such as mimicking natural light cycles. | – |
| Customizability | The kit allows users the freedom to choose their own filter and heater, making it versatile for various setups. | Lack of included heater and filter means additional purchases are required. |
| Ease of Assembly | User-friendly assembly process, supported by a comprehensive guide, makes it accessible for both new and experienced enthusiasts. | – |
Red Sea MAX NANO
This compact yet feature-rich aquarium kit seamlessly blends advanced technology with user-friendly elements, making reef keeping an accessible and rewarding experience.
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
| LED Lighting | High-tech programmable LED system mimics natural reef conditions, promoting the well-being of corals and fish. | – |
| Filtration System | Integrated rear sump with a protein skimmer and circulation pump keeps the water pristine, crucial for the health of a reef ecosystem. | – |
| Glass Design | Ultra-clear, rimless glass offers an undistorted, sleek, and modern view of the aquatic environment. | – |
| User Interface | The user-friendly interface simplifies both the setup and daily operations, making reef-keeping more accessible. | Despite being user-friendly, there may be a learning curve for newcomers to reef keeping. |
| Compactness | The aquarium is compact but doesn’t compromise on features, making it ideal for space-constrained areas. | – |
| Specialization | Designed specifically for reef setups, offering specialized features to maintain a marine ecosystem. | Those seeking a more generalized or freshwater setup may find these specialized features unnecessary. |
| Price | – | Comes at a premium price point, which might not be suitable for all budgets. |
Best Fish For 20 Gallon Tank
Once you’ve set the stage, it’s time to spotlight the true marvels — the fish. The diversity of aquatic life that thrives in such tanks is abundant. Let’s dive in and discover some exquisite species that can make your tank come alive.
Betta Splendens (Siamese Fighting Fish)
- Scientific Name: Betta splendens
- Care Level: Easy
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive
- Adult Fish Size: 2.5 inches
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Temperature: 75 – 80 °F
- pH: 6.8 – 7.5
- Diet: Carnivorous
- Swim Level: Top & Mid-water
- Type: Centerpiece fish
Description: The betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, is an ideal centerpiece for a 20 gallon fish tank. They can be semi-aggressive but are usually safe with peaceful tank mates.
Rummy Nose Tetra
- Scientific Name: Hemigrammus rhodostomus
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: 2 inches
- Origin: South America
- Temperature: 76 – 80 °F
- pH: 5.5 – 7
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Swim Level: Mid-water
- Type: Schooling fish
Description: Rummy nose tetras are excellent midwater choices for a 20 gallon community tank, known for their striking appearance and schooling behavior.
Dwarf Gourami
- Scientific Name: Trichogaster lalius
- Care Level: Easy
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: 2.5 – 3.5 inches
- Origin: Pakistan, Bangladesh, India
- Temperature: 72 – 82 °F
- pH: 6 – 8
- Diet: Omnivore
- Swim Level: Top & Mid-water
- Type: Centerpiece fish
Description: Dwarf Gouramis are vibrant tropical fish with striking colors, making them great centerpieces, ideally kept in pairs to avoid male aggression.
Corydoras Catfish
- Scientific Name: Corydoras spp.
- Care Level: Easy
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (for most species)
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: 1 – 3 inches
- Origin: South America
- Temperature: Species-dependent (usually 74 – 80 °F)
- pH: 7 – 8
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Swim Level: Bottom
- Type: Schooling fish
Description: Cory catfish are peaceful bottom-dwellers that thrive in schools in a tropical community aquarium, helping clean up leftover food.
Apistogramma (Dwarf Cichlids)
- Scientific Name: Apistogramma spp.
- Care Level: Intermediate to advanced
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Temperament: Peaceful – semi-aggressive
- Adult Size: 2 – 3 inches
- Origin: South America
- Temperature: 74 – 80 °F
- pH: 6 – 7
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Swim Level: Bottom
- Type: Centerpiece fish
Description: Apistogrammas are colorful South American dwarf cichlids that make excellent centerpieces, best kept as a male-female pair to minimize territorial behavior.
Zebra Danio
- Scientific Name: Brachydanio rerio
- Care Level: Easy
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: 1.5 – 2 inches
- Origin: India
- Temperature: 64 – 77 °F
- pH: 7 – 7.8
- Diet: Carnivorous
- Swim Level: Top & Mid-water
- Type: Schooling fish or Centerpiece fish
Description: Zebra Danios are active and affordable community fish, suitable for novice keepers and adding movement to your tank.
Bolivian Ram
- Scientific Name: Mikrogeophagus altispinosus
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: 2.5 – 3 inches
- Origin: Brazil and Bolivia
- Temperature: 75 – 82 °F
- pH: 6 – 7.5
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Swim Level: Mid-water & Bottom
- Type: Centerpiece fish
Description: The Bolivian ram is a striking centerpiece fish known for its peaceful nature and suitability for a planted 20 gallon fish tank.
Ember Tetra
- Scientific Name: Hyphessobrycon amandae
- Care Level: Easy
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: 0.75 inches
- Origin: Brazil
- Temperature: 72 – 82 °F
- pH: 5 – 7
- Diet: Carnivorous
- Swim Level: Mid-water
- Type: Schooling fish
Description: Ember Tetras are perfect for busy 20 gallon fish tanks, thriving in schools with other small fish in the mid-level.
Kribensis
- Scientific Name: Pelvicachromis pulcher
- Care Level: Easy
- Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
- Temperament: Peaceful – semi-aggressive
- Adult Size: 3 – 4 inches
- Origin: West Africa
- Temperature: 75 – 81 °F
- pH: 5 – 7.5
- Diet: Omnivorous
- Swim Level: Mid-water & Bottom
- Type: Centerpiece fish
Description: Kribensis are colorful African cichlids suitable for a 20 gallon fish tank, best kept with fast-swimming tank mates during breeding.
Harlequin Rasbora
- Scientific Name: Trigonostigma heteromorpha Care Level: Easy
- Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Adult Size: 2.5 inches
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Temperature: 70 – 82 °F
- pH: 5 – 7.5
- Diet: Carnivorous
- Swim Level: Top & Mid-water
- Type: Schooling fish
Description: Harlequin rasboras are colorful and peaceful, making them excellent choices for community tanks, especially in planted setups.
FAQ
How many fish in a 20 Gallon tank can I keep?
In a general sense, it’s a good idea not to exceed 15 fish that are about 2 inches long. However, it’s important to understand the nuances. An adept aquarist with a well-planted tank might successfully raise and house hundreds of guppies in a 20 gallon fish tank. In contrast, someone might find challenges with just 2 baby goldfish due to ammonia issues.
An enhanced setup with live plants, robust filtration, ample aeration, and regular tank maintenance can indeed support a higher number of fish. Yet, be mindful; the more you increase the tank’s inhabitants, the more attention it demands. Overstocking and neglect can quickly lead to unfavorable conditions.
Opting for fewer fish is a gentler approach. Not only does it mean less feeding and waste production, but it also guarantees a more stable and less maintenance-intensive environment.
What is the biggest fish size you can put in a 20 Gallon fish tank?
While you could potentially keep a juvenile Redtail Catfish in such a tank, remember that it will outgrow the space with time. So when we discuss the maximum size of a fish for a 20 gallon tank, we’re referring to its size at maturity.
For tropical freshwater tanks, a fully-grown Bristlenose Pleco is probably the largest fish that could comfortably inhabit a 20 gallon fish tank. If it’s any larger, consider transitioning to a more spacious tank.
For those with a penchant for cold water species, a Pearlscale Goldfish or two should be content in this volume.
Marine enthusiasts, on the other hand, will find that a pair of mature Ocellaris Clownfish thrive perfectly within this space.
Always prioritize the welfare of your aquatic companions by ensuring they have the space they need to thrive. Research is key, and ensuring your fish have adequate space for their entire life is a sign of a responsible and compassionate aquarist.
In essence, 20 gallon fish tank offer a delightful opportunity for both new and experienced aquarists to explore and curate a thriving aquatic environment. From selecting the right fish to ensuring optimal conditions, the journey is both enlightening and enjoyable.
To dive deeper into the world of fishkeeping, be sure to explore more insightful articles here at DryWash Aquarium. Together, let’s immerse ourselves in the beauty and intricacies of the underwater realm.
