Which Fish Next? Any Advice?

[Kariann]

I currently have 4 platys in my newly cycled 45l tank (Nitrate, Nitrate, Ammonia levels are all as they should be now - API Master Kit). I was thinking of adding a pair of dwarf Neon Gouramis and 4-6 pygmy corys. Should I wait until the tank is a bit more established for the corys? Would it be OK to get Gouramis at weekend and then corys at a later date?

 

[Athena]

How long have the current fish been in the tank?

If it's been at least a few weeks with zero ammonia/nitrite, then yes you could introduce a pair of dwarf gouramis. Give it another couple of weeks to allow your filter to build up the bacteria colony to the higher stock level - and then if your stats are all ok, introduce the next small batch of fish. It might be best to add just 3 or 4 corys, wait another couple weeks and then add the others.

Athena

 

[GSD]

Hi,
I personally would be wary of the dwarf gouramis until you are certain the tank has cycled, simply because they are prone to bacterial infections that can be triggered by poor water quality.

Increase the stocking levels slowly and you should be fine.

 

[Inchworm]

Hi Kariann

If your lfs has any of the dwarf cory species, C. pygmaeus, C. hastatus, or C. habrosus, either get them right away, or at least ask how regularly they get them in. Many lfs never carry them at all.

 

[Kariann]

Thanks all. It's only been a week so I'll wait till next weekend and get Gouramis then. Luckily for me I have a small branch of Maidenhead Aquatics nearby and a larger one a bit further away. The little one had a couple in stock but said they would be happy to order some in if they didn't have them when I'm ready which is cool