How Many Gerbils Can a 20-Gallon Fish Tank Hold?
Selecting the right tank size is a crucial aspect of keeping gerbils, as it directly impacts their health and behavior. If the tank is too small, gerbils may feel confined, leading to issues such as excessive fur-biting, aggression, and reduced vitality. On the other hand, if the tank is too large, gerbils may feel insecure and lonely, resulting in territorial disputes and reduced bonding with their owners.
So, how many gerbils can a 20-gallon tank accommodate?
There isn’t a definitive answer to this question, as different gerbils have varying personalities and needs. However, we can provide a reasonable recommendation based on some fundamental principles and experience. In this article, I will share insights and tips on choosing the right tank size for gerbils, aiming to help you create the most suitable living space for your furry companions.
Basic Needs of Gerbils
Gerbils are highly social animals that enjoy playing and interacting with their companions and building trust and friendship with their owners. They typically don’t thrive when living alone, showing signs of loneliness, depression, and even exhibiting symptoms of depression. Therefore, it’s advisable to keep at least two or more gerbils to provide them with companionship and friends.
However, it’s essential to consider the gender and kinship relationships of gerbils to prevent excessive breeding or inbreeding issues. Generally, same-sex gerbils are easier to get along with, especially if they grow up together from a young age, fostering a more harmonious environment.
Gerbils not only need social interaction but also require sufficient space for activities and exploration. Being curious and active creatures, they love running around the tank, digging, chewing, playing, and even performing acrobatic feats. Gerbils have high activity levels, and if the tank is too small, they may become bored and stressed, negatively affecting their physical health.
Gerbils need enough space to meet their activity requirements and social needs, allowing them to interact with companions and have personal space.
Size and Capacity of a 20-Gallon Tank
Tank sizes are commonly measured in gallons, representing the volume of water a tank can hold. A 20-gallon tank is a popular size, with standard dimensions of approximately 24 inches (61 cm) in length, 12 inches (30 cm) in width, and 16 inches (41 cm) in height. The tank’s shape is rectangular, and its capacity is around 20 gallons (approximately 76 liters).
The tank’s capacity does not equal the usable space within it, as essential items such as wheels, hideouts, food and water containers, and other necessities take up some space. Additionally, the tank’s height is not fully utilized by gerbils, as they typically don’t jump too high, and leaving some space at the top ensures ventilation and safety.
To accurately assess if a 20-gallon tank is suitable for gerbils, one needs to analyze the spatial distribution and usable area within the tank.
Relationship Between Gerbil Quantity and Tank Size
The number of gerbils and the tank size are interrelated factors. If there are too many gerbils, the tank size should correspondingly increase, and vice versa.
How do we determine a reasonable ratio between gerbil quantity and tank size?
While there’s no fixed answer due to individual differences in gerbil personalities and preferences, experts and enthusiasts generally suggest a minimum of 10 gallons of space per gerbil to ensure their health and happiness. This is a minimum guideline, and providing more space will contribute to the gerbils’ increased joy and comfort.
Based on this guideline, theoretically, a 20-gallon tank can accommodate two gerbils. However, this depends on the gerbils’ personalities and the environmental setup within the tank.
If the gerbils are gentle and friendly, and the tank has sufficient facilities and hiding spots, two gerbils should get along well in a 20-gallon tank. However, if the gerbils are more dominant or the tank’s spatial allocation is inadequate, conflicts and injuries might occur. It’s crucial to evaluate whether a 20-gallon tank is suitable for two gerbils based on their personalities and the tank’s environment.
Tank Environment Setup
The tank’s environmental setup is a crucial factor affecting gerbil health and behavior. A well-configured environment makes gerbils feel comfortable, secure, and more interactive. This includes essential items like wheels, hideouts, food and water containers, as well as the overall layout and decorations such as wood shavings, grass, stones, and branches.
Necessary Items in the Tank Environment:
Wheel: A wheel is one of the gerbils’ favorite toys, allowing them to run, expend excess energy, and maintain their health. The wheel’s size should be suitable for the gerbils’ bodies, neither too large nor too small, to avoid affecting their posture and comfort. The material should be sturdy and safe, free from sharp edges or gaps that could harm the gerbils’ paws or catch their fur. Position the wheel on one side of the tank, avoiding the center to prevent occupying too much space and limiting the gerbils’ activity range.
Hideout: A hideout serves as a resting and sleeping place for gerbils, offering a refuge when they feel anxious or scared. Hideouts can come in various shapes and materials, such as wooden houses, plastic shelters, paper boxes, or ceramic bowls. As long as gerbils can enter and exit, and the hideout obstructs their line of sight, it serves its purpose. The hideout’s size should suit the gerbils’ bodies, providing comfort and a sense of security. The number of hideouts depends on the number of gerbils; each gerbil should have at least one, and if there are multiple gerbils, ideally, each should have its own hideout to prevent conflicts.
Food and Water Containers: Containers for food and water ensure gerbils have access to fresh and clean sustenance at all times. These containers can take various shapes and materials, such as bowls, plates, bottles, or hooks, as long as they can hold enough food and water and prevent contamination and waste. The size of food and water containers should meet the gerbils’ needs, neither too large nor too small, to avoid affecting their consumption and hygiene. The number of containers depends on the number of gerbils; each gerbil should have at least one food and water container. If there are multiple gerbils, it’s preferable for each gerbil to have its own set to avoid disputes and conflicts. Position the food and water containers on one side of the tank, avoiding the center to prevent occupying too much space and limiting the gerbils’ activity range.
Layout and Decoration in the Tank:
Wood Shavings: Wood shavings are the most common bedding for gerbils, providing warmth and comfort. They absorb gerbil urine and feces, maintaining tank cleanliness. The thickness of wood shavings should be moderate, neither too thick nor too thin, to ensure gerbil comfort and hygiene. The material should be safe and non-toxic, free from irritating or allergenic components that could harm the gerbils’ skin and respiratory system. Spread the wood shavings evenly across the tank’s bottom, leaving no gaps to avoid hindering gerbil activity and safety.
Grass: Grass is an excellent decoration for gerbils, simulating their natural habitat and adding vibrancy to the tank. The grass’s thickness should be moderate, neither too thick nor too thin, to ensure gerbil comfort and safety. The material should be safe and non-toxic, free from sharp edges or spikes that could harm the gerbils’ paws or catch their fur. Spread the grass evenly across the tank’s bottom, leaving no gaps to avoid hindering gerbil activity and safety.
Stones: Stones are a nice touch to the gerbils’ environment, offering a stable surface for walking and playing. The stones’ size should be suitable for gerbil comfort and safety, neither too large nor too small. The material should be safe and non-toxic, free from sharp edges or corners that could harm the gerbils’ paws or catch their fur. Position the stones on one side of the tank, avoiding the center to prevent occupying too much space and limiting the gerbils’ activity range.
Branches: Branches are an interesting addition to the gerbils’ environment, providing climbing and exploring opportunities. The branches’ size should be suitable for gerbil comfort and safety, neither too large nor too small. The material should be safe and non-toxic, free from sharp edges or thorns that could harm the gerbils’ paws or catch their fur. Position the branches on one side of the tank, avoiding the center to prevent occupying too much space and limiting the gerbils’ activity range.
Lighting and Ventilation in the Tank:
Ensure the tank receives sufficient natural or artificial light during the day, imitating the gerbils’ natural circadian rhythm. Use gentle and warm light sources, avoiding harsh or bright lights that could stress the gerbils’ eyes and disturb their sleep. Provide a hiding spot or shelter with reduced light for gerbils to retreat when they need darkness or rest.
Ensure the tank has proper ventilation to maintain fresh and clean air, preventing unpleasant odors and respiratory issues. Use a tank lid with mesh or perforations to allow air circulation while preventing dust or contaminants from entering. Clean the tank regularly, removing waste, changing bedding, and washing items to ensure hygiene and prevent gerbil health issues.
Tips for Gerbil Socialization and Compatibility:
Choose Same-Sex Gerbils: Opt for gerbils of the same sex to avoid breeding and population control issues. Male and female gerbils can be kept together, but it requires careful monitoring to prevent unintended pregnancies.
Introduce Gerbils Gradually: When introducing new gerbils to the tank, do so gradually and in a neutral space. This helps minimize territorial disputes and promotes positive interactions. Ensure all gerbils have their hideouts and personal spaces.
Observe Gerbil Behavior: Pay attention to your gerbils’ behavior to identify any signs of stress, aggression, or illness. Common signs include fur-biting, fighting, lethargy, changes in eating or drinking habits, and alterations in fur quality.
Provide Enrichment Activities: Gerbils thrive on mental and physical stimulation. Offer a variety of toys, tunnels, and climbing structures to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
Separate Aggressive Gerbils: If aggression occurs, separate the aggressive gerbil from the group. Use a temporary partition within the tank or provide a separate enclosure until the gerbils’ behavior improves.
Remember that gerbils are unique individuals with distinct personalities, and their compatibility can vary. Some gerbils may form strong bonds quickly, while others may need more time to adjust. Regular monitoring, interaction, and a well-designed tank environment contribute to a harmonious and happy gerbil community.
In conclusion, a 20-gallon tank can accommodate two gerbils if their personalities are compatible, and the tank is appropriately set up with hiding spots, toys, and a suitable layout. However, it’s essential to assess individual gerbil needs and behaviors, and monitor their interactions to ensure a positive living environment. Always prioritize the well-being of your gerbils by providing ample space, social companionship, and a stimulating environment.
Fish Tank Size and Its Impact on Gerbil Well-being
The size of a fish tank is a crucial factor affecting the health and behavior of gerbils. Inappropriately sized tanks can lead to various issues, such as stress, unrest, conflicts, and even depression among gerbils. It’s essential to choose the right tank size based on the number of gerbils and their needs to avoid adverse effects caused by tanks that are either too large or too small.
Issues Caused by an Oversized Tank:
Territorial Division and Conflict:
If the tank is too large, gerbils may feel insecure and lonely, leading them to attempt territorial division. This territorial behavior can result in conflicts, fights, and potential harm. Territory disputes negatively impact gerbils’ health, happiness, and their relationship with their owner.
Lack of Vitality and Interest:
An excessively large tank can make gerbils feel bored and unstimulated. They might lose interest in activities and interactions, affecting both their physical and mental well-being. A lack of vitality and interest can also influence their social abilities and friendships.
Issues Caused by an Undersized Tank:
Suppression and Anxiety:
Gerbils in a small tank may experience feelings of suppression and anxiety due to limited space for exploration and movement. This situation can adversely affect their physical health, mental state, and overall temperament.
Excessive Fur Biting and Aggression:
Small tanks may cause gerbils to become nervous and anxious, leading to behaviors such as excessive fur-biting and aggression as a way to cope with stress. This behavior can impact both their health and appearance and strain social harmony.
Selecting an Appropriate Tank:
Choosing the right tank is crucial for gerbil care. Consider the following factors:
Material:
The tank material should be sturdy, transparent, and free from cracks or damages. Glass or plastic tanks are generally suitable for gerbils due to their strength, transparency, and safety.
Ventilation:
Ensure good ventilation to maintain proper air quality. Tanks with mesh or slits on the top or sides are preferable, preventing excess humidity and dust. Proper ventilation safeguards respiratory health and overall cleanliness.
Safety:
Prioritize safety by selecting tanks with secure lids or covers to prevent escapes or injuries. Gerbils should not have any opportunity for attacks or disturbances.
Recommended Tank Types and Sizes:
Rectangular Glass Tank:
Dimensions: 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, 16 inches high
Capacity: 20 gallons
Suitable for two gerbils
Advantages: Sturdy, transparent, facilitates visual interaction
Disadvantages: Limited ventilation
Rectangular Plastic Tank:
Dimensions: 30 inches long, 18 inches wide, 12 inches high
Capacity: 40 gallons
Suitable for four gerbils
Advantages: Lightweight, easy to move
Disadvantages: Less transparent
Mesh-Top Glass Tank:
Dimensions: 36 inches long, 18 inches wide, 18 inches high
Capacity: 65 gallons
Suitable for six gerbils
Advantages: Good ventilation
Disadvantages: Less stable and soundproof
Mesh-Top Plastic Tank:
Dimensions: 48 inches long, 24 inches wide, 24 inches high
Capacity: 120 gallons
Suitable for twelve gerbils
Advantages: Spacious, varied environment
Disadvantages: Less sturdy, less transparent
These tank types and sizes are examples, and you should choose based on your specific situation and preferences.
Tank Maintenance and Cleaning:
Regular tank maintenance is crucial for gerbil health:
Frequency:
Clean the tank at least once a week.
Replace all items and refresh the environment at least once a month.
Method:
Use mild, non-toxic cleaning agents and tools such as water, soap, cloths, and brushes.
Prioritize gerbil safety during cleaning, providing a temporary safe space.
After cleaning, observe gerbils for any changes in behavior to ensure their well-being.
Recommendations:
Maintain stability in the tank environment.
Avoid frequent changes in item placement to prevent confusion.
Introduce occasional changes to keep the environment interesting.
Conclusion:
A 20-gallon tank is a common size, theoretically suitable for two gerbils. However, the success of cohabitation depends on the gerbils’ personalities and the tank environment. Gentle and friendly gerbils may thrive in such a tank, but more dominant or territorial gerbils might experience conflicts.
Ensuring an appropriate living environment for gerbils involves selecting the right tank size, considering their basic needs and preferences. It’s also essential to foster and maintain social behaviors, clean the tank regularly, and provide mental stimulation. Only with careful consideration and love can gerbil owners establish a healthy and harmonious relationship with their pets.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I house different gerbil species in the same tank?
A1: No. Different gerbil species have distinct behaviors and requirements, potentially leading to conflicts, attacks, or health issues. Keep one gerbil species per tank.
Q2: Can I keep gerbils with other animals in the same tank?
A2: No. Gerbils and other animals have different habits and dietary preferences, leading to interference, harm, or disease transmission. Keep gerbils separate from other animals.
Q3: Can I use a tank without a lid for gerbils?
A3: No. Gerbils are curious and active; without a lid, they might escape or face disturbances, risking their safety and privacy. Always use a securely covered tank.
Q4: Can I use a tank without proper ventilation for gerbils?
A4: No. Gerbils require fresh air, and insufficient ventilation can lead to discomfort, affecting their breathing and hygiene. Use tanks with suitable openings to ensure proper airflow.
The above responses provide guidance on common concerns related to gerbil tank size selection. For additional questions or uncertainties, consider searching for more information online or consulting with experienced gerbil caretakers or organizations to enhance your gerbil care knowledge.
