Fishes come in different sizes so do their lifestyle vary. This statement sounds quite familiar and may be generic to everyone but to an aquarist, it is one statement or factor that cannot be overlooked. While a small fish tank may be suitable in certain instances, a larger aquarium like a 55-gallon fish tank could be required to meet the needs of fishes inside.
The need to select the best 55 gallon fish tank is down to the fact that every fish needs a comfortable space that will allow it to express itself freely and also live a healthy and stress-free life. This is why it is expedient for an aquarium hobbyist to ensure that he decides the size of the fish tank first before introducing the pet into the aquarium. If one is looking for an aquarium that are easy to clean then there are multiple option available with self cleaning mechanism and in-built filtration too.
A 55 gallon fish tank will be fitting for moderately large fish species like common pleco , African cichlids, angelfish, and so on. Additionally, fish species that may have their growth stunted when ‘boxed up’ in a small tank, will also do well in this large aquarium. Having said that, it is important that you do not throw caution to the wind – you should know the exact number of fish – that will be okay to put in. School fish species like guppies, zebra danios, mollies, tetras etc., should be cool for this marine tank.
Types and number of fishes that can be added in a 55-gallon fish tank
It is generally accepted that the 55 gallon fish tank is the right aquarium to house large fishes. But that’s not all; they are also suitable for fish species with schooling tendencies. Now that you are looking to get a 55-gallon tank, you need to make it a point of duty to know the type and number of fish(es) that will be appropriate to keep in a tank of this capacity. And, it is for addressing this matter that this article has been put forward.
So, without further ado, let’s see the fishes you should consider for your 55-gallon aquarium.
| Types of fish species | Number of fish species |
| Angelfish | 4 – 6 |
| Cherry barbs | 6 – 8 |
| Cichlids | 2 – 3 |
| Clown loaches | 6 |
| Cory catfish | 5 – 6 |
| Goldfish | 6 |
| Gourami | 2 |
| Jack Dempsey | 1 |
| Neon tetras | 10 – 15 |
| Oscar fish | 1 |
| Rainbowfish | 5 – 6 |
| Rasboras | 10 |
| Tiger barbs | 6 |
| Zebra danios | 15 |
So, let me spare you the narrative and take straight to the main discourse.
Best 55-gallon fish tanks in the market today.
1. AquaCulture 55 gallon Fish Tank
 
First on my list is this finely crafted aquarium from AquaCulture. It is well-designed and is made from top-grade materials that ensure its longevity. It has been constructed in such a way that makes it explicitly appealing to the eyes; this does not, however, take the shine off the AquaCulture 55-gallon fish tank as a highly functional piece.
On its features; besides its predominantly transparent glossy body, this tank also comes with a tetra internal filter which is of huge advantage in ensuring the cleanness of the water. There are also inbuilt cut-outs which make it possible to supply with their feeds and also change cartridges with relative ease.
Another add-on in the Aqua Culture 55 gallon fish tank is the set of LED lights that have been incorporated into it. So, with this, you do not have to spend extra on tank lighting.
Those that have used this tank appear to have nothing against it as it delivers with great aplomb. Plus, the fact that it is easy to operate and maintain, along with other factors, has caused customers to hold this product in high regard. And, to know that it comes at a very affordable price is yet another bonus.
PROS
- Integrated LED lighting
- Easy to set up
- Highly functional
- Reasonably priced
CON
- None
2. Tetra 55 Gallon Fish Tank
Tetra is no stranger to producing masterpiece aquariums and aquarium accessories and it has not disappointed with this particular product. The tetra 55 gallon Fish tank has a dimension of 121 cm X 38cm X 45cm, and the package has virtually everything that an aquarist – whether expert or beginner – needs to set up a beautiful home for his/her adorable pet.
The tetra 55-gallon fish tank comes with a 60cm hinged hood to provide a good covering over its top. Additionally, it has been integrated with LED lighting and a 200-watts energy-efficient heater which would help ensure that your fish is kept at a temperature that is suitable for its well-being.
This product is presented as a complete package as you will also find items such as the patented AquaSafe water treatment solution, fishnet, and boxwood plant amongst other features needed for the proper functioning of the aquarium.
Customers attest to the fact that the manufacturer is really thoughtful of the needs of the beginner aquarist by including the contents found in the kit.
More so, they score the Tetra 55 gallon aquarium high for being easy to set up and being a set that functions satisfactorily.
PROS
- Packed with relevant essentials
- Impressive design
- Good value for money
CON
- The filter may be a bit noisy
3. SC Aquarium ‘Starfire’ Fish Tank
Here is a simple but functional aquarium that you can use in housing your saltwater aquarium pets – be minded that it was originally made for a saltwater setting. It is finely made and exudes tremendous quality. The tank has a dimension of 60 cm X 60 cm X 50 cm and weighs about 113kg. You can choose to fit the hood of your choice over this aquarium and any 55-gallon fish tank hood of 48 inches size will fit perfectly over this product
The tank, which has glossy make-up, features an overflow box to prevent any form of leakage. It also comes with a cabinet upon which it securely sits; the cabinet has a compartment large enough to store some accessories that could be needful for maintaining the aquarium.
Additionally, the manufacturer also included an array of accessories that will be required in setting up; some of these include return T pipe, filter media, Durso standpipe, bulkheads, tubing, bio media, a patented skimmer, and an Atmen PH2500 return pump. With all these, there is little to worry about when considering the other items that are needed to get the aquarium to run at its optimal level.
The SC Aquarium Starfire fish tank has indeed struck the right chord in the heart of the customers who are often seen talking about the premium qualities that have been brought into it. Besides this, however, they have also given positive reviews about the effectiveness of the tank and how easy it is to set up thus making the SC Aquarium highly recommendable.
PROS
- Premium quality
- Well accessorized
- Easy to set up
- Good value for money
CONS
- Not very easy to maintain
- The overflow box is a bit bulky
4. Aqueon Aquarium Starfire Fish Tank
Beyond just housing, your fish in an enclosed space that gives you a good glimpse of them, ensuring their healthy living is also of utmost importance, and this has been factored by Aqueon Aquarium with the production of this 55-gallon fish tank – a safe haven for your aquarium pets.
Constructed from glass, the Aqueon Aquarium 55 gallon fish tank has a sturdy body and is finely shaped. The tank also features a hood unto which LED lighting has been integrated. Additionally, the kit comes with a power filter, a 50-watts heater that is capable of maintaining the water temperature at 250C. And in staying true to the objective of seeing to it that your pet stays healthy, Aqueon Aquarium has also included items such as top-quality fish food, water conditioner, and thermometer in the package.
A couple of those who have utilized the Aqueon Aquarium fish tank acknowledged it to be a great value for money as it delivers the goods with great aplomb. A lot of them get to talk about the quality of the tank as well as how the features [on the tank] have been of immeasurable benefits in getting their fish a happy home.
PROS
- Â LED lighting
- Â Easy setup
- Â Affordable
- Â Nearly noiseless filter
CONS
- Â The heater is not adjustable
- Â The LED lights included are not resistant
5. Vepotek 55 gallon Tall Fish Tank
Let’s break away from the conventional trend for a moment as we look at the Vepotek 55 gallon fish tank. There is no rule that says an aquarium has to come in the form of a rectangle or square and this tall tank gives credibility to that statement. This aquarium is known to be very durable as it is made from acrylic – while its top and bottom parts are of stainless steel – and has a dimension of 50cm X 50cm X 175cm.
The tank features a powerful filtration system that will guarantee a steady flow of water. To complement the functioning of this filtration system, the tank has also been equipped with an air pump and bio ball.
You will also find a canopy and a stand in the package. For the purpose of illumination, the aquarium also has light incorporated into it. As the shape of this Vepotek 55 gallon fish tank is cylindrical, so is the view you get from it – as a matter of fact, it enables you to have a view of your aquarium interior and fish display in a 360-degree orientation. This, of course, is one of the qualities that fascinated most of the aquarists that have purchased it at one point or the other.
But that is not all; they also found it to be long-lasting, and that is not shaped like the regulars tanks does not mean your aquarium pets will get cramped while in it. The Vepotek cylindrical tank is reasonably priced and is yet another one that is definitely worth recommending based on customer reviews.
PROS
- Unique design
- 360-degree view
- Crystal clear display
- Â Very durable
CON
- Not very easy to set up
6. Aquarium Masters 55 Gallon Aquarium
This piece from Aquarium Masters is constructed from top-quality glass and also has its body securely fitted within a black frame – at the top and the bottom. It has a dimension of 121 cm X 33cm X 50cm and weighs around 30kg. Although the Aquarium Masters 55 gallon fish tank looks simple and maybe minimalist, it is built to last, and you can use it to house either freshwater or saltwater species.
This particular aquarium may not score high marks on the cards of some aquarists due to the lack of accessories like hood, lighting, pumps and so on but for those who have used it; this is one of the best glass fish tank one may ever come across in the pet store.
So, why would an aquarium without accessories as this be so highly rated by consumers? The answer simply lies in the high standard of the materials used in making it. More so, the construction and design of the tank give some sort of assuredness as you do not have to worry about leakages or the tendency of the glass falling apart.
It goes to show that Aquarium Masters did put their technical and artistic prowess to play in producing this aquarium.
PROS
- High-grade glass construction
- Simple but detailed design that prevents leakage
- Reasonably priced
CON
- Does not come with accessories
7. SeaClear Acrylic 55 gal fish tank
Here is another interesting option of an aquarium for any hobbyist who wishes to give his/her pets a befitting home. But that is not all; the SeaClear Acrylic Fish Tank will also add some beauty to the interior space, and give you a clear viewing of the aquarium’s inhabitants.
This 55 gal tank is made from acrylic which makes it highly qualitative and durable. Besides this, the kit also comes with some extras like the reflector that ensures that the light is well directed in a way that makes the lives – both flora and fauna – in the aquarium to flourish. There is also a 60cm fixture that will be beneficial for holding LED light in position. This SeaClear acrylic fish tank is designed for both freshwater and saltwater conditions.
One thing that keeps thrilling customers that have had a first-hand experience using the SeaClear fish tank is the acrylic material with which the aquarium is made; with a couple of them further emphasizing that the tank is light-weight and impressively clear to view.
Furthermore, some users have given positive reviews about the sturdy nature of this particular tank. There have also been positive remarks on how the SeaClear Acrylic fish tank is easy to install, use, and clean.
PROS
- Clear display
- Sturdy
- Top-quality
- Easy to clean
- Light-weight
CONS
- Does not come with enough accessories
- Â A bit pricey
8. JAJALE 55 Gallon Fish Tank
Let us now talk about an aquarium that is a masterpiece indeed. The JAJALE 55 Gallon fish tank can be said to be in a class of its own as the quality it exudes appears to be unparalleled. It is made from high-quality glass and is tightly held together to prevent leaking of any degree. This, in fact, has been intricately designed with considerable attention to minute details creating a credible and habitable space for aquatic species in the home setting.
The tank has a dimension of 81cm X 58cm X 38cm, and is further supported by polyvinyl chloride (PVC) frame – this enhances its durability to a great extent. In addition, the tank features like pump and filtration system and an inbuilt LED lighting which means you do not have to dig deep into your purse to buy any of these things separately.
But the purchase is even more rewarding as the LED lighting is of a high grade and will last for a long time. Again, for the purpose of storing other accessories/items that may be valuable, you will also find the wood cabinet given by the manufacturer to be very useful.
There is no denying that the JAJALE aquarium is a quality product, and customers have spoken glowingly in this respect. Plus, the fine cut of the glass and the added accessories give customers enough reasons to score it high and also recommend it to others.
PROS
- Top-quality
- High-grade material
- Ultra-clear view
- Well-accessorized
- Easy to install
CON
- None
9. Clear-For-Life 55 Gallon Hexagonal Fish Tank
This very product is yet another distinctively constructed fish tank with a dimension of 73 cm X 63cm X 60cm – a dimension that clearly reflects its hexagonal outline. But the Clear-For-Life 55 gallon fish tank is not all about its design alone; the quality of the materials used in making it coupled with the technical input of the craftsmen at Advance Aqua Tanks does make this tank stand out in a unique way.
The acrylic fish tank has a black panel at the back. Though this panel may not really interest aquarists that enjoy having a full, unhindered view of their tank’s inhabitants, it could work well in providing a good shield from light rays emanating from the sun.
Still talking about its features, this best-selling 55-gallon fish tank is also equipped with an inbuilt filtration system that would do a commendable job in maintaining the healthy condition of the water in the aquarium thus contributing to the well-being of your aquarium pets. Also, a hood is attached to the tank to keep the inhabitants securely within the aquarium space.
Aquarists that are looking for a simple tank with appreciable functionality for their relatively large fish will surely find the Clear-For-Life community fish tank to be a credible choice. And going by customers‘ review, this particular aquarium from Advance Aqua Tanks is one that is quite easy to operate and maintain, and for these reasons, they have often recommended it to other hobbyists – especially beginner aquarists.
Again, a couple of persons that have used or are still using this fish tank have given it the top mark with regards to its construction and design. Plus, as it is usually said of most aquariums made from acrylic, the clarity of the material used by Clear-For-Life is top-notch.
PROS
- Easy to install and maintain
- Â Simple design but highly functional
- Impressive clear view
- Leak-proof
- Very durable
CON
- Does not come with enough accessories/features
10. MarineLand 55 Gallon Fish Tank
There are a few names that profoundly ring a bell when discourse about aquarium and aquarium goods is being raised, and one of such names is MarineLand. The reason is not just down to the fact that this company has been around for a while now, but for the quality products, it keeps churning out. Among these products is the Bio-wheel aquarium kit which I shall now beam the light on in this review.
The kit features a 55-gallon fish tank which is made of high-quality glass that gives an uncompromising view of the aquarium’s internal environment. It also features a highly functional hood that will allow you to feed your pets without much stress.
The kit can be said to be a nearly wholesome pack as it contains other items that will make a good addition to your aquarium. It contains a 200-watts capacity heater that is water-resistant and would efficiently aid in keeping your precious pets under the appropriate temperature setting. There is even a thermometer included for you to keep a tab of the temperature of the water on a regular basis.
Furthermore, the MarineLand tank also has LED lighting – which can be used to simulate daylight and night-light effects – integrated into it. There are more useful items that can be found in the package, and some of these include fish-net,  55 gal fish tank filter, fluorescent lighting, and water treatment solutions.
Customers cannot but commend the manufacturer’s attention to details as reflected in this very product. It is not strange to see or hear those that have had a first-hand experience using this piece, give glowing remarks about its design as well as the features and accessories that have been included in it – all these do not only make the MarineLand Bio-Wheel 55 gallon fish tank a valuable product but one that exudes great quality; a good buy indeed.
And another thing that is not lost on customers is that this aquarium is a durable product; this is despite the fact that it is made from a delicate material as glass. One more aspect that excites customers vying for this 55-gallon aquarium from MarineLand is the ease with which it can be set up and maintained. Besides these, however, the manufacturer’s commitment towards customer satisfaction is also very much talked about.
PROS
- Â High-quality glass construction
- Â Sturdy
- Reasonably priced
CON
- Instruction guide somewhat ambiguous.
Important equipment to add in a 55-gallon fish tank
Apart from your aquatic pet that is being kept in the fish, there is quite a host of equipment that should be incorporated into the tank in order not to make life unbearable or depressing for the fish. In this view, we have elected to discuss the equipment that you will need to put into your 55-gallon fish tank. Some of these devices are listed thus:
- Filter: The aquarium filter is vital equipment to have in the 55-gallon tank considering the possible generation of waste that may evolve due to the activities of the fish in the tank. The filter is specifically to maintain a hygienic condition within the tank by getting rid of these waste products.
- Heater: The heater helps to keep the temperature of the water within the tank at a steady range – the one that is suitable for the growth and development of the fish.
- Stand: The stand simply exists to provide a platform on which the aquarium can be positioned. It is always advisable to go for a sturdy stand that will adequately secure the tank. Plus, it should be one that is fitting for the shape of your aquarium.
- Canopy: The very first reason to have a canopy over the 55-gallon fish tank is to prevent your pet(s) from jumping out. Besides this, the rate of evaporation is also reduced with a canopy over the fish tank.
- Thermometer: Since you will be needing to maintain the temperature of the water in the tank at a constant range/value, it is expedient that you integrate a device for reading temperature into the tank, and this is where the aquarium thermometer helps to know water temperature.
- Air pump: The air pump significantly aids in supplying dissolved oxygen to the tank’s internal environment by generating bubbles.
- LED Lighting: This just helps to brighten the aquarium space thus giving you a good view thereof. The lighting can also help in promoting the growth of plants by fast-tracking photosynthesis.
