Hi everyone, while my tank is currently being cycled (using the fishless method) thanks to this forum, I thought I would take a look at choosing the fish I would like to have eventually.

I am particularly keen on the smaller shoaling type fishes such as spotted rasboras, black neons etc. but am a bit confused on how much space is needed.

I know that the general stocking rules seems to be 1" of fish to each square inch of surface water (that alone is confusing) and I have worked out that I will have approx 37 sq inches (tank is 31 x 12 x15) approx 20gallons.

My question is how many fish is a 'small' shoal and also could I keep more than 1 shoal together of different types.

My current ideas are:

small shoal of spotted rasboras
small shoal of black neons
small shoal of cherry barbs
small shoal of small corys

1m & 2f sparkling gouramies
1m & 2f honey gouramies

maybe an oto and possibly a couple of amano shrimp

Would they be alright together or not - any comments appreciated.

No rush the tank won't be ready for a couple of weeks.

Actually, the general guide is 1" of fish per gallon of water. Surface area does matter but for beginners, going by gallons keeps the stocking level lower thus helping to prevent problems until you are comfortable with the tank.

Generally, the minimum number for shoaling fish is 3 with 5 to 6 being better. Based on 1" per gallon though, that leaves you with about 2 shoals of 6 making you stocked. Those fish are relatively low waste producers and you could easily add more later on. The otos also prefer to be in groups but really aren't even a factor as far as bio-load. The shrimp are about the same.

Personally, I would go for a shoal of five tetras, four gories and a gourami or two. That would mean all your fish can live comfortably.