What is the perfect underwater community for your 29-gallon tank? That size sounds roomy, but picking the right fish can still feel like a huge puzzle. Many new aquarists face the same challenge: you want a vibrant, healthy tank, but you worry about overcrowding or choosing species that simply won’t get along. It is easy to buy a fish that grows too big or needs water conditions you cannot easily provide in a 29-gallon space.
Don’t let confusion stop you from building the aquarium of your dreams! This post cuts through the noise. We will explore fantastic, manageable fish that thrive in a 29-gallon setup. You will learn about great centerpiece fish, fun schooling options, and bottom-dwellers that keep things tidy. By the end of this article, you will feel confident choosing a balanced, happy selection of fish that perfectly suits your tank size.
Top Fish For A 29 Gallon Aquarium Recommendations
- GLASS AQUARIUM: Rectangular glass aquarium makes an ideal home for your fish.
- ADD ON ACCESSORIES: Mix and match with your favorite Tetra filtration, lighting and water care products (sold separately).
- EASY CUSTOMIZATION: Use assorted Tetra accessories (sold separately) to make your aquarium your own.
- 29 GALLON TANK: Measures 31.87 inches wide by 14.25 inches deep by 20.75 inches high.
- TETRA BRAND: Dedicated to helping seasoned hobbyists and beginners alike enjoy a successful, lifelong aquatic experience.
- 【High Definition】This freshwater fish tank is made of high transparency glass, suitable for fish enthusiasts at all stages
- 【Multi functional】The aquarium equipped lid,easily switch from a fish tank to a climbing pet feeding box, creating your ideal tropical rainforest or desert landscape
- 【29 Gallon Horizontal Rectangle】Aquarium size is 27.5 inch(L) x 13.7 inch (W) x 15.7 inch (H) (70x35x40cm),fish tank glass adopts mirror polishing technology to better restore the landscape
- 【8mm Thickness Glass】 The glass thickness increased to 8mm. The non adhesive edge treatment process is more sturdy and safe
- 【Environmentally Friendly Adhesive】Imported from Germany, eco-friendly professional grade aquarium glue, zero pollution to water and organisms after curing,your safe choice for landscape beautification
- 1. This Tank Hood Fits most 20Long/29 gallon Fish tanks (Aqueon, marine land & perfecto). there are different Aquarium manufactures. BUT NOT FITS for the Topfin Fish tanks. Please measure your Tank opening to the closest millimeter before purchasing!
- 2. Dimensions: 29.21 x 11.69 x 0.16in (74.2 x 29.7 x 0.4cm) The handle uses thin double-sided tape. Clean the glass fish tank cover first, keeping it dry and dust-free. Do not use immediately after pasting. Let it sit for over 24 hours for a firmer bond with the glass.
- 3. Clear Plastic back strip that can be cut to fit your Aquarium.
- 4. Please measure your Tank opening to the closest millimeter before purchasing! There are different Aquarium manufactures.
- 5. Provides the area for your Lighting to sit while allowing simple access to your Aquarium.
- QUIETFLOW LED PRO POWER FILTER, filter cartridge, water conditioner and mesh fish net keep your aquarium water crystal-clear and your pet fish safe.
- PRESET HEATER, SUCTION CUP and thermometer keep aquarium water at the 78° F setting to maintain the perfect water temperature.
- TROPICAL FISH FLAKES contain premium ingredients carefully selected to provide complete daily nutrition for healthy, vibrant fish.
- AVAILABLE IN THREE SIZES for your convenience. Choose from our 10-gallon, 20-gallon and 29-gallon options.
- DEVELOPED BY AQUATIC HOBBYISTS, Aqueon provides a broad array of aquarium solutions to help maintain healthy aquatic environments.
- Comes with one Day White LED lamp, with slot for an additional LED lamp: Day White, Colormax, Beauty Max or Max Blue
- Changing LED lamps are easy to snap in and out to customize the look of your aquarium
- Moon glow accent light for nighttime illumination
- Designed to tightly fit inside aquarium rim
- Full length feeding door
- 【Perfect Mini Aquarium Cleaner】: Still looking for a powerful magnetic aquarium glass cleaner? Then you can't miss the DaToo Mini Aquarium Cleaner with super-strong magnets. Complete and efficient cleaning mode, N38 super strong NdFeB magnet, sturdy and durable, easy to use, let you start showing off your clean aquarium to your friends and family with confidence from today!
- 【Fast And Efficient Cleaning Mode】: DaToo Fish Tank Cleaner has a soft cleaning pad made of high-quality eco-friendly non-woven fabric on one side and an abrasive pad made of special fibers on the other side, ideal for removing all types of dust and stains on your fish tank. No need to get your hands wet, just move the handle outside of the fish tank and you can quickly complete the daily cleaning of aquarium, saving you half of your time!
- 【Super Strong NdFeB Magnet】: For more powerful cleaning ability, DaToo Aquarium Cleaner uses N38 Super Strong NdFeB Magnet as the magnetic material, the magnetic field strength is 2600GS, and the cleaning force is 140N, which makes DaToo has an incredible cleaning strength, and the cleaning ability is 2~3 times more than other similar products. When you use DaToo fish tank cleaner, you will realize what is really strong!
- 【Sturdy And Durable】: High-strength ABS shell, fearless of any external collision or drop, corrosion-resistant. Whether freshwater or saltwater tank, you can use it. Permanent magnetism, N38 NdFeB permanent magnet, durable and long life, the magnetism does not weaken after long time use, giving you consistent cleaning strength!
- 【Easy To Use & One Year Warranty】: 4.5*2.1inch fun mini size, ergonomic handle design, easy to reach the most difficult places of your aquarium, ideal for use in glass tanks up to 8MM (5/16") thick. We provide one year warranty and 24 hours professional customer service. Buy With Confidence!
- Premium thickened PVC static cling aquarium backdrop. This high-definition black aquarium vinyl background picture can hide hoses, filters and unnecessary stains. It can make the fish tank look so much cleaner and cooler.
- Aquarium wallpaper background is easy to install. The static cling design for easy application. Multiple sizes available for selection.
- Clean the fish tank with water to keep the surface free of dust. Remove the transparent protective film from the surface of the fish aquarium background. Spray glass with water. Use cards to scrape out bubbles. Trim the background beyond the aquarium. No need glue, adhesive, tapes or gel.
- Easily setting and easily removed. It won't leave any marks or residue when removed. if you make a mistake or want to reapply. It can be easily removed and reused. Good quality vinyl fish tank backdrop. Durable, waterproof, tear and crease resistant.
- There are multiple sizes to choose from for this static cling fish tank background. It can be trimmed to fit different sizes of fish tanks. Please choose the length and height of the background must longer than the length and height of your fish tank. If you don't know how to choose a size. please feel free to contact us at any time.
- Suitable for large fish tanks: Our fish tank stand is designed for 20-29 gallons of fish tanks, providing stable support and a secure display space. It is also equipped with two additional compartments on the right side, with the bottom compartment capable of holding 5 gallons of small fish tanks, allowing you to create a more diverse aquatic environment. Whether you're raising large ornamental fish or arranging aquatic plants, our stand can meet your needs.
- Convenient storage functionality: first-level compartment on the right side, allowing for easy storage of fish food, nets, disinfectants, water conditioners, and other daily supplies. The cabinets are designed with specific spaces, and removing the compartment allows for accommodating canister filters and CO2 hoses. There is also an opening at the back of the stand. This ensures a tidy and organized environment around your fish tank, making it convenient to access the items you need.
- Strength and stability: Our stand is constructed with high-quality materials, featuring steel pipes and sturdy MDF panels, ensuring a maximum weight capacity of 330 pounds for the tabletop and 150 pounds for the bottom. The robust structure and stable design guarantee the stability of your fish tank, eliminating concerns about wobbling or insecurity. Your fish tank will remain rock solid, allowing you to enjoy your aquatic world with peace of mind.
- Stylish modern design: Our stand showcases a sleek black modern design that complements various home decor styles. It serves not only as a practical fish tank stand but also as an exquisite home decoration, adding a touch of modern elegance to your living space. Stand dimensions: 31.49" L*15.74" W*31.49" H TIP: Fish tank not included.
- after-sales service: If you encounter any issues, please feel free to contact us through Amazon, and we will provide a satisfactory solution to meet your needs.
Choosing the Best Fish for Your 29-Gallon Aquarium: A Comprehensive Buying Guide
A 29-gallon tank is a fantastic size. It offers enough swimming space for many beautiful, small to medium-sized fish without needing the massive commitment of a 55-gallon setup. Selecting the right inhabitants is key to a healthy, thriving tank. This guide helps you pick your perfect aquatic pals.
Key Features to Look For in Potential Fish
When you shop for fish, look beyond just good looks. Consider these vital features:
- **Adult Size:** Never buy a fish that will outgrow your tank. A fish that stays under 3 inches is usually a safe bet for a 29-gallon setup.
- **Temperament:** Is the fish peaceful or aggressive? Mixing a peaceful community fish with a bully will cause stress and sickness.
- **Schooling Needs:** Many popular fish, like Tetras or Corydoras Catfish, need to live in groups (schools) of six or more. Check the required group size.
- **Hardiness:** Some fish handle small fluctuations in water quality better than others. Beginner fish should be hardy.
Important Materials and Compatibility Factors
The “materials” in this context relate to what environment the fish needs and what other fish it can safely live with.
Water Parameter Requirements
Every fish has a preferred water type. You must match the fish to your tank’s chemistry. Check the pH and temperature needs before you buy.
- **pH Level:** Some fish like acidic water (lower pH), while others prefer alkaline water (higher pH).
- **Water Hardness (GH/KH):** This refers to mineral content. Ensure your chosen species agree on this.
- **Temperature:** Most tropical fish need stable temperatures between 74°F and 80°F.
Compatibility: Who Plays Well Together?
This is the most important factor for a happy community tank. You must research tank mates carefully.
- Avoid pairing very fast, nippy fish (like Tiger Barbs) with slow, long-finned fish (like Fancy Guppies).
- Bottom dwellers (like Corydoras) generally do well with mid-water swimmers (like Tetras).
- Do not overcrowd the tank. A 29-gallon tank supports a moderate bioload (the waste produced by the fish).
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality (Health and Longevity)
The quality of the fish you purchase directly impacts your success.
Factors That Improve Quality:
Healthy fish are active and colorful. Good local fish stores often quarantine new arrivals first. This means the fish you buy is less likely to carry disease into your established tank.
- Look for bright, vibrant colors.
- The fish should swim normally, not hiding constantly or resting on the bottom.
- Ensure they readily eat food offered by the store staff.
Factors That Reduce Quality (Red Flags):
Avoid purchasing fish showing signs of illness or poor care.
- White spots (Ich), fuzzy patches (fungus), or ragged fins reduce quality immediately.
- Fish that gasp at the surface often have breathing issues or poor water quality in their holding tank.
- Fish kept in overcrowded tanks will be weaker and stressed.
User Experience and Use Cases for a 29-Gallon Tank
A 29-gallon tank is perfect for several popular setups. Your experience will change based on what you decide to keep.
Use Case 1: The Peaceful Community Tank
This is the most popular choice. You create a vibrant display with many different species that coexist happily. Good choices include Neon Tetras, Harlequin Rasboras, small Dwarf Gouramis, and bottom-feeding Corydoras Catfish. This setup provides constant activity and color variety.
Use Case 2: The Cichlid Show Tank (Dwarf Species Only)
A 29-gallon tank can house a single centerpiece fish or a small group of dwarf cichlids, such as Apistogrammas or Rams. This offers fascinating behavior and breeding potential, but water quality maintenance must be excellent.
Use Case 3: The Livebearer Colony
If you enjoy watching fish reproduce, a 29-gallon tank is ideal for Guppies, Platies, or Mollies. These fish are hardy and colorful, but you must be prepared for many babies!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Fish for a 29-Gallon Aquarium
Q: How many fish can I safely keep in a 29-gallon tank?
A: A common beginner rule is one inch of adult fish per gallon, but this is often too crowded. Aim for about 15 to 20 small community fish (under 2 inches) once the tank is fully cycled and mature.
Q: What is the best beginner fish for a 29-gallon tank?
A: Neon Tetras, Zebra Danios, and Guppies are excellent beginner fish because they are hardy and adapt well to minor beginner mistakes.
Q: Can I keep Betta fish in a 29-gallon tank?
A: Yes! A 29-gallon tank is a wonderful home for a single male Betta. It allows you to add peaceful, non-nippy tank mates like snails or peaceful Corydoras.
Q: Should I keep fish that swim at the top, middle, or bottom?
A: You should aim for a mix! Having fish that occupy all levels of the tank prevents overcrowding in one area and makes the entire display look fuller.
Q: What fish should I absolutely avoid putting in a 29-gallon tank?
A: Avoid large fish like Angelfish (they get too big), all types of large Cichlids, and fish that require specialized saltwater environments.
Q: Do all my fish need to be the same temperature?
A: Yes. All fish in a community tank must share similar temperature and pH requirements. Mixing a cold-water Goldfish with a tropical Neon Tetra will result in one or both dying.
Q: How long should I wait before adding fish after setting up the tank?
A: You must complete the nitrogen cycle first. This process usually takes 4 to 8 weeks. Adding fish too soon causes toxic ammonia spikes.
Q: Is it okay to mix livebearers (Guppies) with Tetras?
A: Generally, yes. Guppies and Tetras share similar tropical water needs. Just ensure the Guppies do not reproduce so fast they overwhelm the tank capacity.
Q: What fish can help clean algae in my 29-gallon tank?
A: Otocinclus Catfish are excellent algae eaters for this size tank. A single Bristlenose Pleco is also a good option, but monitor its adult size.
Q: How many fish should I buy on the first trip to the store?
A: Start small. Buy only 4 to 6 fish initially. Wait two weeks, test your water parameters, and then add the next small group. This lets your biological filter adjust slowly to the new waste load.