* This post has been updated since it was originally written. I have learned more in that time and have realized that many suggestions are not appropriate for a 10 gallon tank. I also feel that bigger is typically better and can provide more enrichment and better heat/humidity variations as needed and do not want to encourage anyone to aim for bare minimum care.
10-20 Gallon Suggestions
Hermit Crabs: Despite your childhood, these are not throwaway vacation pets, nor should they die soon after you have them. They are not a pet to keep in a cute little bug catcher and those fun painted shells? Inhibits their breathing. There are lots of misconceptions about these fascinating little creatures so please be kind and do your homework. They need much more space than people tend to give them. A 20 gallon with 2 crabs is pushing the limits of acceptable especially as they grow larger. I have 3 in a 50 gallon currently. They are large, active, and can get territorial. In addition, they need lots of area to burrow, climb, shell shop, etc.
Crayfish: How cool is this guy? Crayfish are typically very aggressive so if you choose this, plan on only having one per tank. That being said, they are very interesting pets with a variety of types to choose from and an assortment of unique behaviors. Make sure they have lots to explore and many tunnels/hiding spots.
Other crustaceans...mainly Vampire Crabs! These guys have had my attention since I heard of them. They are sooo cool! They do well in a setup similar to dart frogs and are actually much more likely to be on land than in the water.
Mice: You could keep a pair or trio of female mice in a tank this size as long as it has lots for them to explore and play with. Make sure to keep things interesting for them! They are sweet, intelligent creatures. There are also all kinds of adorable fancy mice like this picture. *Update: while you technically could do this, you will be dealing with a lot more smell and cleaning. It is better to provide more space when possible and I would not keep mice in a 10 gallon for anything at this point. They also deserve an enriching environment with plenty of space and things to do. You could probably make a 20 gallon work for a pair with lots of enrichment, but again, bigger would be better.
Bumblebee Toads: Look how beautiful these little toads are! They are definitely on my wishlist <3 They are a little pricey, but just look at how neat they are! Fun fact: They walk instead of hopping around.
Pacman Frog: Make sure not to put your fingers in front of him or you may get a nasty surprise! These guys are one of the few frogs with teeth-like structures and can deliver quite a bite if they think you are a snack! Still, they are super cute. They may not be overly active, but they have simple requirements and provide a show at dinnertime. Only one frog per tank!
Budgett's Frog: These are definitely another species on my wishlist! I have always found them absolutely adorable. Babies can start in a 10 gallon. They will get fairly large, but are pretty inactive which is why they are alright in a 20 gallon as adults. If these catch your attention, do your reading and make sure to learn about aestivation.
American Toad: One of these could be fine in a 10, 2 could be alright in a 20 gallon. As usual, bigger would give more space for exploration and enrichment. Another on my wishlist <3 I think they are just so cute. Toads are often overlooked, but can make great pets. When doing your research, always make sure to learn about any possible toxins toads (or really any amphibians) may secrete. They aren't a pet you should be handling much anyway.
Scorpion: There are a few species that can be kept communally, but most should be kept singly. This would be an interesting choice appropriate for the space offered!
Snails: This is a picture of a land snail, but there are several types of aquatic snail that would also do well in a smaller tank that holds 10-20 gallons of water. If you keep aquatic snails, be aware you will need to have good filtration and clean frequently because these guys are messy!
So that's that for now! Hope you liked some of these suggestions!
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