General rule of thumb:
* 1 inch of fish per gallon is a good starting point for small, peaceful fish.
* Less is always more in a small tank.
* Consider the fish's needs: Some fish need more space to swim, others require specific water conditions.
For a 10-gallon tank, you could consider:
* 3-5 small, peaceful fish (like neon tetras or guppies)
* 1-2 betta fish (a single betta in a 10-gallon tank is ideal)
* A small school of shrimp (like ghost shrimp)
Important:
* Overstocking is harmful: It can lead to ammonia build-up, poor water quality, and fish health problems.
* Research specific fish needs: Before getting any fish, learn about their size, temperament, and water parameters.
* Regular maintenance: A smaller tank requires more frequent water changes to maintain good water quality.
Always prioritize the well-being of your fish over the number of fish you can fit in the tank.