Introduction And 55 Gallon Info

[StanDaManTX]

Hello Everyone,

I am relatively new to keeping fish myself, but not to the hobby. My father kept fish most of my childhood, we loved it. My son expressed interest in a fish as a pet and I have become overwhelmed with how much I enjoy researching, caring for the tank and watching the little guys frolic happily around our humble 11 gallon. Currently we have 8 Tetras, 4 Blood fins(which I absolutely love) and 4 Black phantoms.

Here's my question. I am going to get a 55 gallon tank in the very near future. I have been on the **advisor website researching possibilities as well as species forums and numerous other sites for info. I am planning on cycling my tank before purchasing the fish. I would like to know that my stocking list is a good one as well as compatible so that I may set up my tank accordingly. Also, I will probably be using fake plants since I am not sure I am ready to tackle a planted tank even though they are beautiful. So, all that in mind here is the list I have compiled to WORK TOWARDS at first.

10x forktail rainbow fish (psuedomugil furcatus)
10x black neon tetra (hyphessobrycon herbertaxelrodi)
1x kribensis (pelvicachromis pulcher)
1x chameleon fish (Badis Badis)
1x german blue ram (Mikrogeophagus ramirezi)
3x kuhli loach (pangio kuhli)

I will probably start the tank off, after the cycle, with the Tetras and Rainbows. Does this list cover all levels of the tank? Will everyone most likely be happy and free from conflict? Any info, suggestions, concerns, modifications would be great! Thanks.

 

[StanDaManTX]

No body, wants to help me out with my stocking? Any help would be great! I picked up a 60 gal and stand this weekend for a steal. Also, might anyone know a good online source for some realistic silk plants?

 

[fluttermoth]

Hi there; sorry no-one's replied yet!

I'd decide between either the ranibows or the tetras, depending on what your water is like. Rainbows prefer it slightly harder and more alkaline, while the tetras would do better in soft, slightly acidic water.

Again with the krib and the ram; rams are quite delicate and need very soft, very warm, clean water and a sand substrate with plenty of plants. Kribs would prefer slightly harder water with some rocky caves, but are very hardy and adaptable, so I'd pick one or the other, again depending on your water.

The kuhlis would like softish, on the acid side water (but neutral would be ok for them) and a sand substrate, and would be better in a larger group; you could easily have 7 or eight in a tank that size.

I don't know much about the badis, I'm afraid1

 

[StanDaManTX]

Thank for the reply ... This is exactly the type of info I am looking for. The ph of my local water runs about 7.4. I currently have 8 tetras, they all seem to be fine. Been taking care of then for a while and they mean alot to me. I did introduce them slowly as to help then adjust to the water. Are there substrates that would help with the hardness of the water? ie. Eco complete? I am trying to come up with a stocking list that would make my wife and 3 year old happy. I would love to put together a peaceful community of brightly colored playful fish. I love schools but I would also like variety. Lol typical amateur huh?? I've been reading and reading, but there is so much too take in with all of the different species and their preferences/needs. Might you have any suggestions for stocking?