So, How Much Space Does My Fish Need?

Aquarium Dimensions and Space Necessary for Fish

Another factor to consider when determining whether a fish can safely be housed in your aquarium is the adult size of the fish when compared to the dimensions of the tank. A 48" Arowana, for example, may be able to have enough oxygen and have his waste efficiently processed in a 50 gallon tank, but if the tank is only 12" deep and 30" wide, the fish does not have room to move around, which will cause stress and suffering. Make sure that the minimum dimension of the tank (in length and depth) is at least 80% of the adult length of the fish, and that at least one dimension of the tank is over twice the length (and preferably closer to 7-12 times the length) of the fish. Also check that the height of the tank is at least twice the height of the adult fish. It is also important to remember the fish's behavior when determining whether it will fit in your tank or not. A very active fish, like a Zebra Danio or a Pictus Catfish, will need more swimming space than a less active fish, like a Lionhead Goldfish or a Tiger Oscar.

It is important to provide each fish with enough space to reach a healthy, normal adult size. Your tank will be easier to care for and your fish will stay healthier if you provide enough room in the tank for the fish to properly mature. Providing quality maintenance of the tank, including regular water changes and the necessary care for the filter, will reduce the risks of keeping a fish in a tank that is too small, however, the only solution to this problem is to be sure that your tank has enough space for the fish that you are keeping.

My snail mail address is: Keith Seyffarth, 217 W. Koch, #308, Bozeman, MT 59715.
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Page most recently modified: February 19 2007 17:37:53.