10 Best Fish For 5-gallon Fish Tanks [2025]
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Finding the best fish for 5-gallon fish tanks can be a daunting task, especially with countless options available and varying compatibility requirements. To simplify your search, we have meticulously shortlisted ten of the best fish suited for small aquariums, taking into account factors like temperament, size, and care needs. Our curated list not only saves you time but also alleviates the hassle of choosing the right species, ensuring that you make an informed decision for your aquatic environment.
Top 10 Fish For 5-gallon Fish Tanks In The Market
Fish For 5-gallon Fish Tanks Review
- Equipped with SmartClean(TM) Technology to perform water changes in less than 2 minute
- Improve water quality for a happy, healthy fish
- Includes aquarium vessel, hood and elevated base, power filter, small filter cartridge, fish food, water conditioner and setup guide
- Great home for small fish
- For first time and experience fish keepers of all ages
- FUN and REWARDING: Are you looking to buy an aquarium for your children? If you are, you are going to want to look at this fish tank. Owning an aquarium can be a really fun and rewarding experience and an ideal way to teach your child the responsibility of pet ownership
- Dazzling Colors: This energy-efficient LED lighting features 30 LEDs and offers multiple modes—white, warm, blue, and white-blue mix. Easily switch modes with a touch of a button. It includes a timer (2/4/8 hours) and memory function for personalized settings
- COMPLETE FILTRATION: Powerful internal power filter cleans and purifies aquarium water at a flow rate of 45 gallons per hour effectively removing organic pollutants including discolorations, odors, heavy metals, and toxic gases. Uses Koller Products S replacement filter cartridges (B086ZM4PYG)
- OPTIMUM VIEWING: Crystal-clear clarity so good that most think it's glass. Made of impact-resistant plastic providing leak-proof assurance, unlike glass tanks glued together with silicone, this one-piece tank puts to rest any worries or concerns about possible leaks
- TRENDY DESIGN: Unique shape allows viewing from multiple angles anywhere in the room
- SLEEK DESIGN: Rounded corners and clear glass canopy allow viewing from multiple angles.
- DAYLIGHT/MOONLIGHT LIGHTING: Bright white LEDs create a shimmering sunlight effect; blue LEDs produce a moonlit glow.
- EASY ACCESS: Hinged LED lighting and sliding glass canopy.
- SIZE: 5-gallon aquarium fits Marineland Rite-Size Z Filter Cartridges.
- HIDDEN FILTRATION: Advanced, 3-stage filtration is out of sight, enhancing aquarium viewing.
- GLASS AQUARIUM: Rectangular glass aquarium makes an ideal home for your fish.
- ADD ON ACCESSORIES: Mix and match with your favorite Tetra filtration, lighting and water care products (sold separately).
- EASY CUSTOMIZATION: Use assorted Tetra accessories (sold separately) to make your aquarium your own.
- 5.5 GALLON TANK: Measures 16 inches wide by 8 inches deep by 10 inches high.
- TETRA BRAND: Dedicated to helping seasoned hobbyists and beginners alike enjoy a successful, lifelong aquatic experience.
- ✨ ALL-IN-ONE SMART AQUARIUM – JUST UNBOX & ENJOY! Meet the 5-gallon smart aquarium that takes the hassle out of fishkeeping. With built-in filtration, auto-feeder compatibility, and a leak-proof design, it's ready to go right out of the box—no tools, setup, or tech skills required!
- 📱 SMART APP CONTROL FOR MODERN LIFESTYLES - Control everything from your phone using the 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 app. Schedule automatic feedings while you're away, set the mood with 7 customizable LED light colors, and monitor water temperature from anywhere. Ideal for busy professionals and tech-loving hobbyists.
- 🔁 LAB-GRADE FILTRATION FOR CRYSTAL CLEAR WATER - Enjoy pristine water with a triple bio-filtration system featuring nitrifying bacteria and 6D filter cotton. The ultra-quiet pump (≤35dB) runs silently in the background—perfect for bedrooms, offices, or study spaces.
- 🎨 7-COLOR LIGHTING + UHA-CRYSTAL CLARITY DISPLAY - Premium UHA-grade glass (92% light transmittance) offers a crystal-clear view of your aquatic world. Choose from 7 lighting modes via the app to highlight fish colors, encourage plant growth, or set the perfect vibe—day or night.
- 🎁 BEGINNER-FRIENDLY & FULLY LOADED - Compact and stylish, this 5-gallon tank fits easily on desks or countertops. Great for bettas, goldfish, tetras, shrimp, or crabs. A perfect starter tank for kids, adults, or as a thoughtful gift for any animal lover!
- 5 gallon glass aquarium starter kit
- Comes with everything needed for your first fish tank
- Use our Nutrafin Aqua Plus Water Conditioner to make tap water safe for fish
- Marina's Slim S20 clip-on aquarium filter keeps your water clear and uses quick-change filter cartridges
- Long-lasting, natural daylight effect LED aquarium lighting module is incorporated into the fish tank's canopy
- Modern and quiet: Our 5-gallon fish tank is made of ultra-white glass and provides a clear view, whether it's an office, a room or a classroom. The filter is also very quiet and there is no need to worry about noise.
- Easy to use: fish tank without cumbersome installation, even if you are just a beginner can easily master.
- Self-cleaning: small fish tank with filter, through the water cycle can improve the oxygen content in the water and filter the impurities in the water, keep the fish tank clean for a long time.
- Healthy habitat: The lid of the aquarium is equipped with a switch to control the led light, so that you can provide a healthy, stress-free environment for your beloved fish.
- Adjustable filter: filter pump can adjust the flow rate, do not worry about the risk of filter suction fish.
- Advanced Self-Cleaning System: Ultra-quiet 3-in-1 pump delivers oxygenation, circulation, and triple filtration, reducing maintenance by 70%. Enjoy a stunning waterfall effect with minimal upkeep for a thriving aquatic ecosystem.
- Premium 5mm HD Glass & Vibrant LED: Crafted from ultra-clear, drop-tested glass for durability and crystal-clear views. Customizable 3-color LED lights enhance plant growth and showcase fish day or night.
- Smart Temperature Control: Built-in real-time water temperature sensor ensures a stable environment for sensitive species like Betta fish, shrimp, and guppies, promoting healthier aquatic life.
- Hassle-Free Setup & Gift-Ready: Flip-top design simplifies assembly, feeding, and water changes. Perfect as a thoughtful gift for kids or beginners to foster responsibility and love for aquatic pets.
- Versatile & Reliable Support: Ideal for Betta fish, shrimp, snails, and more, or as a breeding tank. Backed by responsive after-sales service—contact us for any issues with defective or missing parts.
- 【25W Aquarium Heater】Orlushy 25w fish tank heater can be applicable to 1-6 gallons tank. It is 4.7 inches in length, ideal for use in low water level and won’t take up mech place, easy to hide in small tank. Please fully submerged the heater vertically into water in fish tank, and horizontally into water in turtle tanks.
- 【Easy to Operate 】This aquarium heater is automatic constant temperature heating when the power is switched on. The preset temperature is 78℉. Accuracy is ±3℉. Stair shape heating that red light is on and heater starts to intermittently heat the water to the preset temp, saving energy and electricity. When green light is on, heater stops working and maintains constantly 78℉.
- 【Durable & Material】 The durable material of the heater ensures safe operation. The outer shell covering the whole body of the heater is made of heat-resistant ABS material that it won’t deform and melt under high temperature. The heating rod is made of nickel-chromium heating wire to faster heating rate, and non-corrosive quartz glass.
- 【Cautions】 1.Please ensure the heater is 100% submerged into the water before plug in the power. 2. Please unplug the power and cool down the heater for 10-20 minutes before taking it out to clean the fish tanks or change the water.
- 【Guaranteed Customer Service】 Orlushy fish tank heater is made with great safety and durability for use. We guarantee 1 -Year warranty. If there is any issue with our product, please contact us, and we would gladly offer you after-sales service.
Our Review Process
To ensure you get reliable product recommendations, we follow a detailed review methodology that includes:
- Market Research: Scanning best-selling and trending products in this category.
- User Feedback: Reviewing customer reviews, star ratings, and complaints.
- Hands-On Testing: Trying select products ourselves when feasible.
- Feature Comparison: Evaluating specs, durability, pricing, and safety.
- Expert Opinions: Consulting with niche experts or credible reviewers.
We independently select the top 10 options based on value, quality, and usability. To learn more, visit our detailed review process.
Key Considerations Before Buying Fish for 5-Gallon Fish Tanks
Choosing the right fish for a 5-gallon tank requires careful thought and planning. Due to the limited space, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure a healthy and harmonious environment for your aquatic pets.
1. Tank Size and Fish Compatibility
One of the most critical aspects to consider is the size of your tank. A 5-gallon tank cannot accommodate large or active fish, as they require more swimming space and can produce more waste. Ideal fish for smaller tanks include:
- Betta fish
- Neon tetras
- Guppies
- Endler’s livebearers
- Small rasboras
Always ensure that the species you choose can coexist peacefully, as some fish may exhibit territorial behavior.
2. Water Quality and Temperature
Maintaining water quality is vital in a smaller tank, as changes in parameters can happen rapidly. Invest in a reliable filtration system and regularly test your water for ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. Additionally, consider the temperature preferences of the fish you plan to keep, as different species thrive in varying temperature ranges.
3. Stocking Levels
Overcrowding can lead to poor water quality and stressed fish. As a general rule, a good guideline is to have one inch of fish per gallon of water. However, this rule may vary based on the type of fish and their space requirements. Always research the adult size of the fish and their specific needs.
4. Plant and Decor Compatibility
Live plants and decorations not only enhance the aesthetics of your tank but also provide hiding spots and territories for your fish. Ensure that your chosen plants and decor are compatible with the type of fish you plan to keep, as some fish may nibble on plants or get caught in decorations.
5. Feeding and Care Requirements
Different fish species have varied dietary needs. Some may require special foods or feeding schedules, while others are more adaptable. Make sure you can provide the appropriate nutrition and care for the fish you choose, including any specific tank maintenance routines.
6. Lifespan and Growth Potential
Consider the lifespan of the fish you are interested in. Some fish may live for several years, while others have shorter life spans. Additionally, be aware of the growth potential of each species. Even if they start small, some fish can grow larger than expected, which could lead to overcrowding or stress in a 5-gallon tank.
7. Cost and Availability
Lastly, consider the cost of purchasing the fish, as well as the ongoing expenses related to their care. Some species may be more expensive or harder to find than others. Be prepared for potential costs related to food, water conditioners, and medical care if needed.
FAQs
What types of fish are suitable for a 5-gallon tank?
Small fish species are best for a 5-gallon tank. Popular choices include bettas, guppies, neon tetras, and ember tetras. It’s important to avoid larger species, as they require more space to thrive.
How many fish can I keep in a 5-gallon tank?
A common rule of thumb is to allow one inch of fish per gallon of water. However, this can vary based on the species and tank conditions. Generally, you can keep about 5-6 small fish or 2-3 medium-sized fish in a 5-gallon tank.
What kind of filtration is best for a 5-gallon tank?
For a 5-gallon tank, a small, efficient filter such as a sponge filter or a hang-on-back filter is ideal. These filters provide adequate filtration while maintaining a gentle water flow, which is important for small fish.
How often should I clean my 5-gallon fish tank?
It’s recommended to perform partial water changes (about 25-50%) every 1-2 weeks. Additionally, you should clean the substrate and check the filter regularly to maintain a healthy environment for your fish.
What equipment do I need for a 5-gallon fish tank?
Essential equipment includes a heater (if keeping tropical fish), a filter, a light, and a thermometer. You may also want to include decorations, plants, and an air pump for aeration.
Can I keep live plants in a 5-gallon tank?
Yes, live plants can thrive in a 5-gallon tank, and they are beneficial for water quality. Choose low-light plants such as Java fern, anubias, or marimo moss balls that do not require extensive care or space.
How do I cycle my 5-gallon fish tank?
Cycling your tank involves establishing beneficial bacteria to process fish waste. You can cycle your tank using fishless cycling (adding ammonia) or fish-in cycling (adding a few hardy fish). This process typically takes 4-6 weeks.
What should I feed my fish in a 5-gallon tank?
Feed your fish high-quality flakes or pellets suitable for their species. Treats like frozen or live foods can be given occasionally. Be careful not to overfeed, as this can pollute the water.
Can I use a 5-gallon tank for breeding fish?
Breeding fish can be done in a 5-gallon tank, but it requires careful management of space and water quality. It’s best to choose small species that are known to breed in smaller environments, such as guppies or bettas.
What are common mistakes to avoid with a 5-gallon tank?
Common mistakes include overstocking, overfeeding, neglecting water changes, and failing to properly cycle the tank. Additionally, not researching the specific needs of each fish species can lead to problems in tank management.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, selecting the right fish for a 5-gallon tank is crucial for creating a thriving aquatic environment. Our top 10 picks were carefully curated based on several factors, including the fish’s compatibility with small spaces, their temperament, and ease of care for beginners. Each species listed has proven to adapt well to a 5-gallon tank, ensuring that both new and experienced aquarists can enjoy a vibrant and healthy aquarium. From peaceful community fish to colorful bettas, our selections offer a variety of choices to suit different preferences and lifestyles.
By following our list, you can confidently choose the best fish that not only fit well in your tank but also contribute to a balanced ecosystem. Proper tank management, along with our recommendations, will help you create an engaging and low-maintenance setup. Remember, the health and happiness of your aquatic pets depend on the right selections, and with our guidance, you can ensure a wonderful experience in your fishkeeping journey.
