How Should I Stock a 30 Gallon Fish Tank
When we set up a new fish tank, it is necessary to know the tank size and volume, then we can determine the location of the fish tank as well as the species and amount of fish. Today, we will learn about some excellent fish for a 30 gallon fish tank. Without further ado, let’s get started!
Content Table
How much water is in a 30 gallon fish tank
Some good centerpiece fish to stock a 30 gallon fish tank
1. Guppy
Guppy is a freshwater fish from the Poeciliidae family. They are native to South America. Guppies are peaceful and easy to care for. They are varying from various colors and patterns, as well as different tail lengths and styles. Guppies can grow up to 0.6-2.4 inches and live for about 2 years. They can be kept in the minimum tank size of 5 gallons. Besides, they require a water temperature of 74-82℉.
2. Molly
Mollies are also one kind of freshwater fish, belonging to the Poeciliidae family. Mollies can be found in Mexico and the southern United States. They are peaceful and an excellent choice for a community tank. In addition, they are easy to care for and possess great adaptability, which makes them suitable for beginners. Mollies include black molly, lyretail molly, balloon molly, sailfin molly, and dalmatian molly. They need to be kept in a 10-gallon tank at least. And they can grow up to 3.5-4.5 inches, while they can live for 3-5 years. Furthermore, 72-78℉ is ideal for them.
3. Angelfish
Angelfish is one popular freshwater fish, which belongs to the Cichlidae family. There are freshwater angelfish and saltwater angelfish. Angelfish like slow-moving streams and swamps, as well as warm and acidic water. Freshwater angelfish are semi-aggressive and omnivore. They can grow up to 6-8 inches. Thus, it is better to keep the fish in a 20-gallon tank at least. If you are interested in the compatibility between angelfish and coral, please read another article – Angelfish for Reef Tanks.
4. Tetra
There are many types of tetra, such as black tetra, neon tetra, flame tetra, and blue tetra. Most tetras can grow up to 1-5 inches and can be kept in 10-20 gallon aquariums. They prefer a water temperature of 75-80℉. Moreover, it is recommended to leave two gallons for each tetra.
5. Platy
Platies are one freshwater fish from the Poeciliidae family. They are native to Mexico and Central America. Platies are peaceful and easy to care for. They accept the minimum tank size of 10 gallons. With proper care, they can reach 3 inches and live for 2-3 years. Besides that, platies are also one great option for 30 gallon community fish tanks.
6. Rainbowfish
Rainbowfish is one freshwater fish that belong to the Melanotaeniidae family. They come from Australia, Indonesia, and Madagascar. The fish are colorful and bright. They can grow up to 3-7 inches and live for 5-8 years. Accordingly, the minimum tank size should be 15-30 gallons. Rainbowfish enjoy a water temperature of 74-80℉.
How many fish can be put in a 30 gallon water tank
Someone holds that 5 freshwater fish in a 30-gallon fish tank is acceptable. Nevertheless, if there are aquatic plants and decorations, the fish number should be less accordingly. Because it is crucial to leave room for fish to swim and explore around the tank. You can take a reference from the 30 gallon fish tank stocking ideas.
The fish name | Stock in a 30-gallon tank |
Guppy | 10-12 |
Molly | 4-6 |
Angelfish | 1-2 |
Tetra | 10-12 |
Platy | 6-8 |
Cory catfish | 9-11 |
Bristlenose plecos | 3-5 |
Cherry barbs | 10-12 |
Rainbowfish | 3-5 |
Killifish | 6-9 |
Kuhli loach | 7-9 |
Tips
Setting up a 30-gallon fish tank costs less and is easier to maintain compared with large tanks. Although it is easy to set up the 30-gallon fish tank, here are also some tips for you!
The placement of your fish tank
You should avoid direct sunlight on the fish tank because it will lead to algae thriving. On the other hand, you should leave rooms around the fish tank, which will be convenient for you to do tank maintenance.
Set up your fish tank
You should clean the gravel and aquarium soil before adding them to the tank. Moreover, you should prepare aquarium light, aquarium heater, aquarium filter, and other aquarium accessories in advance.
Stock your tank
If you plan to add plants, it is better to apply live aquatic plants. Because fake ones may contain pigment, which may bring negative effects to your fish. On the contrary, live plants can improve the oxygen level and some can also provide shade and hiding places for fish. But if you prefer fake plants, soft ones are better, silk plants for example.
Relative Topic:
How Many Fish in A 5 Gallon Tank
How Many Fish in a 20 Gallon Tank
After reading, hope you have gained some useful information. What are your ideas about stocking 30 gallon fish tank? Welcome to share them with us in the comment. Finally, thanks for your reading!