Stocking ideas for a 20 gallon tank
- 10 neon tetras + 6 corydoras + 1 honey gourami
- 8 cherry barbs + 6 kuhli loaches + 1 dwarf gourami
- 1 German blue ram pair + 8 harlequin rasboras + 6 otocinclus
A 20 "long" (30 inches) gives more swimming and floor space than a 20 "high". Bottom dwellers like corydoras appreciate it.
Before you add fish
Cycle the tank first, so beneficial bacteria can break down fish waste. Test until ammonia and nitrite read zero and nitrate is rising, which usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. Then add a few fish at a time, with a week or two between groups.
Frequently asked questions
How many neon tetras can go in a 20 gallon tank?
Up to about 32 if they were the only fish, but most people keep a school of 8 to 10 alongside other species.
Can a goldfish live in a 20 gallon tank?
No. Fancy goldfish need about 30 gallons for the first fish, and common goldfish need a pond.