What To Put In Tank?

[karawr]

I've got a 20G lying around that I want to setup. I've purchased an AquaClear 30G power filter and a fluval 100W heater (up to 30G). Were those good purchases?

I want to get cories and a clown pleco (as it stays smaller). I can only get bronze or peppered cories as those are the only ones offered locally. How many cories should I get?

I also want some zebra danios but not sure how many to get. I'd also like to add in 1 powder blue dwarf gourami. Any other small suggestions/what would look good together is great!!

I really don't know if I can fit these 4 in a tank, which is why I've come here for some advice. Thanks so much!!

 

[Gvilleguy]

Hi Karawr,



I think the equipment you purchased will do very well for you. We would recommend that you cycle the filter prior to adding fish to the new tank, however, which is what is called a fishless cycle. Have you read through any of the articles in the beginners resource center? I have a link to it in my signature below. Also, if you decide to do a fishless cycle, please read over the 'do and do not list' link in my signature. It answers most of the common questions we get during new tank cycles.

I think your stock idea is pretty good. But generally the recommendation is that Corys and Zebras do best in shoals of 5-6+. But if you got 5 Corys and 5 Zebras that might completely stock your tank. I am not an expert on stocking - I tend to stick to cycling questions, so I bet some other forum members will comment here.

 

[karawr]

I do know that I have to set up the tank for at least a week before introducing any fish, but I don't know any other details so I will follow those links and read up on it.

And yes... the tank seems pretty small for the ideas I have in mind. Would a 30g be a better option? I don't really want a large tank as I already have a 75G (for a turtle and some fish) and don't have any room at all. I was wanting to stick under the 40G line.

 

[karin]

PLEASE read through the "beginner's resources" at the top of this section. Pay attention to the sections on "cycling". If you set up a tank and leave if for a week and then add fish you will have dead fish due to ammonia build up. What fish do you have in the 75Gallon? Does it have a filter? And yes, a 30 gallon is a better option.

 

[karawr]

2 CAE and 3 Balas running on a Rena XP3. And yes I am already reading up on cycling and didn't realize how extensive that process actually is. But now I know better so will be doing all that.

 

[karawr]

Is this too much for a 20G:

x6 Zebra Danio
x4 Peppered Cories
x1 Clown Pleco
x1 Powder Blue Dwarf Gourami

I don't know how big of a group cories like to be in.

Edit: I've heard dwarf gourami's are disease prone and that pleco's will eat the cories. Is this true?

Edit2: Got the tank set up now (I was waiting on a stand to put it on). Excited for the adventure!