What Size Tank Do Clownfish Need? (Complete Guide)

Interested in keeping clownfish? If so, you should probably know the minimum tank size clownfish require in order to live a comfortable and healthy life. Despite their small sizes, clownfish need space to swim and explore. On the good side, however, they don’t need much compared with other species. 

What’s the recommended tank size for clownfish? Clownfish need a minimum tank size of 20 gallons. For every additional clownfish, the size of the tank should be increased by 10 gallons. 

If you are planning to set up a clownfish tank, there are several things you should know. 

Clownfish Minimum Tank Size 

Clownfish can live in 10-gallon tanks. In fact, if you browse through reef forums, you’ll see a lot of people posting successful tanks in which they keep clownfish. It’s achievable. However, if someone is successful in doing something, it doesn’t mean it’s the norm. And, it certainly does not mean it’s the right thing to do. 

The minimum tank size for smaller types of clownfish should be at least a 20-gallon tank. Maroon clownfish need at least a 30-gallon tank.

Keeping clownfish in tanks less than 20 gallons requires previous experience in the hobby. Even with appropriate filtration, you’ll still need to do regular water changes. And, it is not just about the filtration. Would you lock a man in one room for his whole life, just because he can live within it? I don’t think so. 

Different kinds of problems arise with people keeping clownfish in smaller tanks. Beginners often take that as an example and try it themselves. Often, failing miserably. 

In my opinion, regardless of your experience level, you should always keep clownfish in larger tanks. 

Do Clownfish Need a Big Tank? 

In general, clownfish are small fish, so they don’t really need much in order to thrive. However, the bigger the tank is, the easier the maintenance gets. If you are a beginner, consider getting a bigger tank from the start. That way, you’ll have more room for errors. And if you make a mistake, it won’t result in losing your fish. 

Can I Have Other Fish in My Clownfish Tank?

Clownfish can live with other fish without problems. Of course, you should first check the compatibility with the other species. And, if you are interested in adding more fish to your tank, you should consider upgrading the tank. Or, plan ahead, and set up a larger tank where you can gradually add more fish over some period of time. 

Related Questions 

How many clownfish can fit in a 10-gallon tank? 

The required tank size for a clownfish is 20-gallon, however, you can get away with 10-gallon only if you keep one juvenile clownfish. When it reaches its adult stages, you should upgrade the tank. 

Can I put two clownfish in a 10-gallon tank? 

A 10-gallon tank is small even for one clownfish. Consider upgrading the tank to at least 20-gallon. 

Can a clownfish live in a 5-gallon tank?

Clownfish can’t live in a 5-gallon tank. The required size for a clownfish is a 20-gallon tank. 

How many clownfish can I put in a 20-gallon tank? 

In a 20-gallon tank, you can keep one clownfish or a pair at most. 

How many clownfish can I put in a 30-gallon tank? 

30-gallon tanks are ideal for keeping a pair of clownfish. They are big enough, yet they don’t take much space. 

Can a clownfish live alone? 

You can keep just one clownfish, however, they will feel better if they live in small groups. 

Should I get one or two clownfish? 

In most cases, it’s best to keep a pair of clownfish in one tank.

Final Thoughts 

As you have seen, clownfish don’t need much space in order to live a healthy and comfortable life. Set up a 20-gallon tank and you are set for life. 

However, if you like to add more fish, or possibly corals in your tank, you should increase the tank size appropriately. After all, it’s up to you! The bigger the tank is, the more space they’ll have for swimming and exploration. 

Now I’d like to hear from you. What’s your opinion on this subject? Let me know in the comments below!