A 5-gallon tank is the perfect size for beginners. Small enough to fit anywhere, but large enough to support a beautiful ecosystem. Here are our top picks:
🐠 Betta Fish
Easy- Size: 2.5-3 inches
- Temp: 76-82°F
- Personality: Beautiful, interactive, can be territorial
- Best for: Single fish tanks, beginners
- Notes: Males cannot be kept together. Perfect for a planted 5-gallon!
🐟 Ember Tetras
Easy- Size: 0.75-1 inch
- Temp: 73-82°F
- Personality: Peaceful, schools of 6+
- Best for: Community tanks
- Notes: Brilliant orange color. Keep in groups of at least 6.
🐟 Pygmy Corydoras
Easy- Size: 1 inch
- Temp: 72-79°F
- Personality: Peaceful, bottom-dwelling
- Best for: Cleaners, community tanks
- Notes: Keep in groups of 4-6. Great algae cleaners!
🐟 Dwarf Rasboras
Easy- Size: 0.75-1.5 inches
- Temp: 73-82°F
- Personality: Peaceful, active
- Best for: Community tanks
- Notes: Beautiful red/orange coloring. Keep in groups of 6+.
Fish to Avoid in 5-Gallon Tanks
Goldfish (need much colder water and larger tanks), Oscars (too large), Angelfish (need taller tanks), and most Cichlids (aggressive).
Our Recommendation
For a 5-gallon, we recommend either:
- One Betta fish - solo occupant, stunning centerpiece
- 6-8 Ember Tetras - colorful schooling fish
- 4-6 Pygmy Corys + 6 Rasboras - active community
Ready to set up your tank? Check out our tank reviews and cycling guide!