Community Tank

[Kati]

Hi all,

About 6 months ago when I moved I had an 'epidemic' hit my tank and I lost most of my fish. Recently I have bought a new tank and an external canister filter and want to start restocking my fish. I still have one Molly and 3 Bristlenose catfish. I would like some ideas on what fish to get to create a harmonious community tank where all levels are occupied.

I did have Clown Loaches and loved having them but would rather not go that way again as they so easily get sick. I have been thinking of Angelfish, Tetras and the likes?

What do you recommend?

 

[Nim]

Kati, we need more information on the tank & water: What is the size of the tank and what type of water do you get? as in PH, GH, Nitrates.

Clowns are usually not all that delicate once they settle in but they do need a large tank (4ft IMHO)

Nim

 

[kribensis12]

What size tank?

 

[-SPB-]

Marble hatchet fish are lovely peaceful fish. I've got 5 in my tank, i like them for their triangular shape, if you look at them face on it sort of looks as if they are flying. They generally like to be at the top of tank although mine will sometimes venture further below.

Here's a link about them in the characins fish species section:

http/www.fishforums.net/content/Characin...arbled-Hatchet/

 

[stang1]

As Nim said, we need more info on the tank.
Clown Loaches are very sensitive fish and prefer a tank that has been set up at least 6 months. They are also prone to whitespot but not so much if they are introduced to a more mature tank.

 

[Kati]

My tank is about 80 litres.

I was given the clown loaches as a gift and was always a little concerned about what I would do once they grew! I'd love a larger tank but space does not allow it Oh well.

As far as the water quality goes I can't say really as I am very much an amature but I do regulary conduct all the tests and make sure that the pH is neutral (7 is what I aim for? is that correct?).

 

[kribensis12]

That is aorund 20 gallons correct? If so, then i would say maybe a school of tetra's and 2 more mollies. Then your done.

 

[Nim]

Kati,
PH is not a thing to worry about as long as it is stable. A stable mature tank should have zero Ammonia & nitrITE. Water changes should be done to keep Nitrate levels as low as possible and a lot depends on what your tap water nitrates are.

80 Litre is a tad too small for clowns but it would be a good livebearer tank or a good schooling tetras. Both of them live at almost all levels.

Danios & pencil fish prefer to be at the surface and would suit your tank too but not large danios.
Mid level you could have cherry barbs or checkerboard barbs or pentazona barbs apart from livebearers and tetras but you need to make sure what you are mixing will be compatible.
Bottom can be done by small corydoras but most fish will keep this level active.

Nim

 

[stang1]

Your test should include Nitrite, Nitrate and Ammonia. Nitrite and Ammonia are toxic to fish so your reading should always be 0. A PH of about 7 is neutral so is fine for the majority of fish. It's worth investing in a complete kit so you can regularly check your water.
Clown Loaches will reach 12", need to be in groups of 5+ and should be kept in a tank of about 95 gallons.
Your tank is too small to keep Angels as they need at least 25 gallons.
You may end up having to rehome two of your BN's as they will reach 4"-6" and produce a lot of waste.
Some of the smaller Tetras will be fine but make sure your tank has had a chance to mature.
Once your readings are stable, you could add a couple more Mollies or some Platies as they are hardy fish.

 

[Kati]

Thanks for your advice. For now I am letting the 'oldies' settle in but I am looking forward to some new fish faces.