How the score works
- Adult fish size matters more than shop size.
- Active swimmers and messy species get a higher load factor.
- Strong filtration and live plants lower risk, but do not erase aggression or territory needs.
Freshwater stocking planner
Plan fish load before the tank looks crowded.
AquaStock Lens estimates a freshwater stocking score from gallons, fish length, activity, filtration, and plants. It is intentionally conservative because fish waste, oxygen, and aggression do not scale as neatly as a simple inch-per-gallon rule.
Before adding fish
- Cycle the tank first and test ammonia/nitrite.
- Check species temperature and temperament.
- Leave room for growth, not just today's body size.