DBC Aquatics
11 Apr , 2025
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Small Tank Stocking Guide (5g, 10g, 20g Options)
Small tanks can thrive — but stocking them right is key to success. These visual stocking ideas are safe for shrimp, beginner fish keepers, and planted tanks. Always cycle your tank fully before adding livestock, and choose one group per tank size to avoid overcrowding.
🐚 5 Gallon Stocking Options
- 10–20 Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina)
- 1 Betta (not with shrimp!)
- 5–6 Endler’s Livebearers (all males)
- 1–2 Nerite or Mystery Snails
- Optional: Floating plants or moss walls
🌱 10 Gallon Stocking Options
- 20–30 Shrimp (Caridina or Neo)
- 6–8 Ember Tetras or Chili Rasboras
- 1 Honey Gourami + shrimp colony
- 1–2 Otocinclus catfish (with algae)
- 1–2 Snails
🌊 20 Gallon Stocking Options
- 50+ Shrimp (mixed colonies)
- 10–12 Nano schooling fish (Tetras, Rasboras)
- 3–5 Otocinclus or a pair of Apistos
- Community: 1 Bolivian Ram, 6 Tetras, 3 Otos
- Planted tank, hardscape, sponge filters
🛑 Stocking Tips for Nano Tanks
- Always test water weekly (TDS, ammonia)
- Do 10–20% water changes weekly
- Feed lightly — shrimp and small fish don’t need much
- Choose peaceful fish only — no fin-nippers or large species
🔗 Related Tank Guides
Have a tank size I didn’t cover? Drop it in the comments and I’ll give you a custom stocking plan.
