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Most catfish species are friendly and laidback, making them a great addition to nearly all aquarium tanks. Seeing them poke around and hide among plants is one of the cutest scenarios you’re eyes will ever lay off. We know you’ve been in deep search of the best small aquarium catfish, and we’re glad to help!
Introduction
What makes catfish one of the highly popular aquatic pets among experienced and newbies are their fascinating personalities and extraordinary look. Though similar to other aquatic species, they require a decent amount of care and, of course, a good living underwater environment.
Picking out an aquarium tank for your catfish can be hard. There are hundreds of models available – not all of which make the ideal option. The struggle is even real for those with limited space or storage. In this review, allow us to share 7+ best small aquarium catfish highly recommended regardless of your skill level.
Why Do Catfish Make For Good Pets?
Extremely stout, a catfish requires low maintenance to keep, is not susceptible to ill health, and often lives up to 10 years. Well, these reasons alone are surely enough to convince you why catfish are good aquatic friends to have in your house. They are very popular for their broad mouths and signature whiskers. Moreover, they are gentle and slow-moving. You can add them to other freshwater or saltwater fishes, thanks to their non-aggressive behavior.
Catfish also do well in a small aquarium tank providing the environment is always clean, and the water is warm enough. They come in many different colors – making your tank the center of attention when combined with your aquascaping.
Why Should You Begin With Choosing A Small Tank?
In today’s modern age, even the smallest college dorm, apartment, or office can now enjoy the full benefits of live fish. Small aquariums are taking the market by storm. However, are they really a healthy habitat for the catfish?
Definitely, yes, IF well cared for and properly set up. Tons of small tanks are made of high-quality materials, so the entire safety of your catfish may not be compromised. One advantage of tiny aquariums would be any person can own one. Most come in inexpensive price rates, plus space retirement is very minimal.
Kids will also appreciate the beauty of keeping this type of aquatic pet. You can use it as an opportunity to train them on how to be a good pet parent. And because most models are portable, transferring it from one place to another will not be a real issue at all.
Top 7 Best Small Aquarium Catfish
Whether it is a corydoras, clown pleco, bumblebee, pictures, upside down, or other catfish species, these small aquarium tanks are guaranteed to provide them with a happy, safe, and healthy habitat!
1. Marineland ML 90609
A small aquarium tank with a 5-gallon capacity, the 90609 unit from Marineland gives an attractive design and look with its LED lights and glass building. Either create daylight or moonlight effects according to your preference. With its rounded corners, you’re able to get a nice view of your cute little pets from several angles. It features a three-stage filtration process containing biological, mechanical, and chemical filtration. Good for both freshwater and saltwater fish, catfish included. Of course, we do not forget to appreciate the tank’s tall shape as it adds to the overall beauty.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Provides a good view
- LED light system
- Advanced filtration system
Cons
- Might easily crack or break
2. Tetra LED Half Moon Aquarium Kit
Also regarded as the best small aquarium catfish for beginners, Tetra has a 1.1-gallon tank capacity, but wait! Don’t underestimate its function and quality. A perfect option if the space in your home is less than enough to accommodate new items. You can merely put it on your desk or table. And since it is lightweight, you won’t spend too many bucks owning one.
Pros
- Portable and lightweight
- Includes LED lights
- Ease of maintenance
- Resistant to breaking or cracking
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Filtration system not included in the package
3. Marina LED Aquarium
Our recommended 10-gallon aquarium tank for your catfish is the Marina LED Aquarium. It comes in a rectangular shape with a neon bulb. If the idea of spending extra dollars on accessories cringes you, then go for this product. Tons of accessories are included, such as an LED light, water conditioner, fish net, clip-on filter, and a starter food pack. The filters have 4 different filtration media slots. It is also a good purchase for those who want to explore their aquarium talent.
Pros
- Robust glass tank
- Energy-efficient LED lighting
- Comes with various accessories
- Beginner-friendly
Cons
- Heater not included
4. Glofish 29045 Aquarium Kit
Another 5-gallon tank we have, the Glofish 29045, has everything you need to highlight the lively, attractive colors of your catfish. It boasts a curved front with a clear cover, filter, and LED lights. This is a gorgeous way of illuminating your fish, plants, and coral while at the same time preventing the water from evaporating. Weighs 6.71 pounds, which makes it very easy to carry wherever you please.
Pros
- Acrylic-construction
- Includes hood and internal filtration system
- Overhead LED lights
- Lightweight
- Includes all the essentials
Cons
- Being lack in the biological filter may disappoint some buyers
5. Penn-Plax Curved Corner Glass Aquarium Kit 10 Gallon
This 10-gallon fish tank is made up of plastic and glass with dimensions of 17.8 by 11.8 by 12.6 inches. Its bent glass design creates a seamless and frameless appearance. Hence, providing an unobstructed view of your aquatic pets from nearly any angle. You have control over the amount of flow to produce through rotating the output and inlet nozzles, as well as the spray bar and jet nozzle. It generates an ideal amount of light for bettas, except for other kinds of fish.
Pros
- Huge water capacity
- Movable LED lighting
- Includes filtration
- Good value for the money
Cons
- The light is not very strong
- It May require lots of maintenance
6. Fluval Edge Aquarium
If you prefer something unique to increase your aquarium viewing experience, this tank from Fluval is worth considering. The LED light wiring is well hidden to guarantee a well-rounded view. Highly versatile for various applications, thanks to its compact design. You can either use it at home, at your office desk, or in other settings. Available in three modern colors to suit your interior decor: white, black, and silver. You can go for a 15-gallon model if you prefer.
Pros
- Sophisticated floating design
- Offers 360-degree view
- Three-stage filtration system
- Powerful LED lights
- Easy to use
Cons
- Quite pricey
7. Biorb Flow 30 Aquarium
The Biorb Flow 30 Aquarium also features a distinct and compact design – with a look similar to the book-end. Built-in LED lights to ensure a low voltage as well as securely sealed in order to sit perfectly at the tank’s top. This guarantees it won’t get damaged or waterlogged too. Includes various accessories you will need to get started in aquascaping and keep it functioning well. These include an air pump, water conditioner, 12V transformer, filter cartridge, and airstone.
Pros
- Good construction
- Compact design
- Five-stage filtration
- Built-in LED light
- Low voltage
Cons
- A bit expensive
Small Aquarium Alternatives
Marineland Contour Glass Aquarium: A stylish and sleek centerpiece to let your catfish live. The lighting is one top-notch feature of Marineland Contour – including both white and blue LED lights. There are neither corners nor creases to obstruct the view with the tank’s curved shape. Easy to maintain and access.
Aqueon Fish Tank: Features thermometer and heater (set at 78°), cool white LED lighting, and silent filter. You’ll be able to keep fishes of any sort, like catfish, extremely healthy and happy without fuss. One package contains everything you need for mounting this fish tank, including a complete setup guide.
Back to the Roots: Features submersible pump, lightweight in size, and has a natural biological filter in the sort of plant roots. In terms of construction, it is made of plastic with a 3-gallon capacity. It only consumes less amount of energy, though it can be used for growing useful plants or food.
Hygger Horizon: Buying this aquarium catfish means getting several accessories like a colored LED light, 7 watts power filter pump, and a few ornamental 3-D mountain rocks for a pleasing background. You can extend or adjust the LED light up to nineteen inches. The brightness level, on the other hand, has five adjustable settings to choose from.
Seapora Rimless Cube: This fish tank is different from all of the products we’ve mentioned earlier. It doesn’t have a lighting system, filter, or heater. It’s mainly suited to Do-It-Yourself tank enthusiasts who want to design their own aquarium from scratch. Absolutely an excellent choice to let your creativity flow freely!
Conclusion
If you want to keep catfish and secure their habitat, the very first thing you should do is decide which aquarium tank to invest in your dollars. As you can see, there’s a wide array of options available that may get you confused. Along with proper feeding and care, the right aquarium will aid your catfish to thrive.
Consider these options and see for yourself!
The rule of thumb is one inch of fish per gallon of water, and with fish that school for their peace of mind, a 10 gallon tank fills quickly. It is also easier to maintain a slightly larger tank, with a 10 gallon being the most logical as a minimum. It does become heavy, but can be moved by removing half the water. It is stressful in the fish to be moved as it disrupts their environment.