How to Make a 5-Gallon Aquarium Interesting

Although a 5-gallon aquarium is small, it doesn't mean it can't be interesting. With the right decorations and fish, you can make your 5-gallon tank stand out and attract everyone's attention. Of course, you have to be careful not to overpopulate your aquarium but there is a right way to make a 5-gallon aquarium interesting.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Set up the 5-gallon aquarium with the standard things; this includes a heater, filter, light and air pump.

2. Find a backdrop that will make your aquarium look larger. Something with fish swimming on it will give the appearance that you have more fish in your aquarium and create the illusion that your aquarium is larger than it is. Add colorful gravel so it compliments the backdrop.

3. Look for accessories that will create conversation. Something like a "No fishing" sign--which is standard--can be a conversation piece when you add "Charlie the Tuna" holding it.

4. Pick you fish carefully. Since you can easily have too many fish in a 5-gallon aquarium, remember the rule is 1 inch of fish to every gallon of water. You want to get the ones that will make your tank the most interesting.

5. Select from the following fish. You can add two or three of the following fish to your 5-gallon aquarium. Pick the ones that you think will make your aquarium the most interesting. Some of the fish that are small enough to occupy your tank are: guppies, Cory catfish, most tetras, dwarf frogs, dwarf puffers, most danios and paradise fish.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the fish you select can get along. There are some examples listed in the Resource section.

Resources

• Listing of suggested freshwater communities for a 5-gallon aquarium.